Adrian
Texas hospitals incurred nearly **$122 million** in medical costs allocated specifically for illegal immigrants within just one month, according to a recent report. The figures, tracked for the first month following the implementation of a new mandate, have sparked widespread concern among state officials and residents.
Texas Governor **Greg Abbott** issued an executive order in August 2023, directing the **Texas Health and Human Services Commission (THHSC)** to monitor healthcare expenditures related to individuals not lawfully present in the United States. The initial report, released this week, revealed that **31,000 hospital visits** were made by illegal immigrants in November 2023, totaling **$121.8 million**. This included inpatient discharges, emergency department visits, and associated care costs.
Although the report covers November 2023, future updates will provide comprehensive quarterly data. The first annual report is expected to be published on January 1, 2027, based on data collected from healthcare providers.
**Andrew Mahaleris**, spokesperson for Governor Abbott, emphasized that Texas hospitals—already strained by the influx of illegal immigration—need transparency to understand the financial impact. “Now, Texas has reliable data on the dramatic financial toll that illegal immigration is taking on our healthcare system,” he noted.
Despite controversies surrounding the mandate, federal law requires hospitals to inform patients that their immigration status does not affect care provision. Texas hospitals, like those nationwide, must treat all individuals regardless of their ability to pay or legal status.
Governor Abbott’s administration has also highlighted the potential for reducing healthcare costs by addressing illegal immigration effectively. The state has seen record-low illegal crossing numbers thanks to federal border security efforts, which could positively influence future healthcare expenditures.
Additionally, legislation is underway to solidify Governor Abbott’s mandate permanently. State Representative **Mike Olcott** introduced a bill aimed at transforming the executive order into state law.
The **Texas Hospital Association**, representing healthcare providers statewide, reiterated that the requirement to collect data should not deter individuals from seeking care. “Hospitals are legally obligated to provide life-saving treatment to anyone in need, regardless of their background or ability to pay,” the association stated. They remain committed to serving Texans and addressing urgent healthcare needs.
This development underscores the ongoing debate over the intersection of healthcare, immigration, and state budgets. Texas, as a border state, continues to bear significant pressures on its healthcare infrastructure, with implications for policy and resource allocation moving forward.
Source: Governor Abbott’s Office, Texas Health and Human Services Commission, reports from medical providers.
