Newly elected Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry (R) has issued an executive order directing state entities to calculate the financial impact of illegal immigration. This order, highlighting a conservative approach to fiscal responsibility, reflects growing concerns among many Louisianans over the increasing economic burden of the border crisis being unleashed on the entire nation by the Biden administration.
Landry’s decision underscores a commitment to transparency and accountability. The executive order, issued Tuesday, mandates every executive branch entity in Louisiana to record data revealing the costs incurred due to illegal immigration. “Identifying, quantifying, and mitigating the adverse effects of illegal immigration in Louisiana,” as stated by Landry’s office, is the cornerstone of this initiative.
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry Orders All State Entities To Report Costs Of Illegal Immigration https://t.co/eJEuUDGVuH pic.twitter.com/esemjFzlfN
— Daily Wire News (@DailyWireNews) January 17, 2024
The governor’s office emphasized that this move aims to protect the interests of lawful residents. Landry pointed out that the cost of illegal immigration is “falling on the shoulders of hard-working Louisianans.” He further clarified that while Louisiana welcomes legal immigrants, it cannot continue to bear the financial strain caused by those who circumvent legal processes.
The executive order comes at a critical time. Reports from the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) estimate over 100,000 illegal aliens residing in Louisiana, in addition to around 34,000 ‘anchor babies’. The financial toll on Louisiana’s taxpayers is significant, with FAIR’s data suggesting an average cost of over $4,600 per illegal alien, impacting household budgets statewide.
Gov. Landry, elected with a sweeping majority in December, has been vocal about the need for lawful immigration processes. This stance resonates with many of his constituents, reflecting a broader national conversation on immigration policy and its economic impacts. His victory in the elections, seen as a landmark moment, set the stage for this decisive action.
Under the order, state agencies must provide a detailed report within 120 days, outlining their roles and the financial implications of services provided to undocumented immigrants. Additionally, law enforcement is required to submit monthly reports on the criminal activities of illegal aliens, including details about their immigration status, offenses, and suspected gang affiliations.
The governor’s office also announced plans to make this data public, ensuring citizens have access to updated information. This move aligns with Landry’s commitment to transparency and his belief in the right of taxpayers to understand how their money is being spent.
The initiative also reflects a broader strategy by Landry to reform state programs. By quantifying the resources allocated to undocumented individuals, Landry could leverage this data to propose reforms aimed at reducing these expenditures. This approach aligns with a conservative fiscal policy, focusing on reducing unnecessary state spending and prioritizing lawful residents.
