Border leaders ask state to take stand

AUSTIN - Leaders from Texas-Mexico border communities are asking state legislators to help them take a stand against a federal border fence.

The state doesn't have jurisdiction over the fence. But Brownsville Mayor Pat Ahumada says Texas lawmakers should create a working committee to improve talks among local officials, landowners and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Ahumada and others with the Texas Border Coalition also urged that the Legislature pass a state resolution opposing the fence.

The Mexican American Legislative Caucus held a hearing on the fence Thursday. Rep. Eddie Lucio III, a Brownsville Democrat, said the caucus is gathering information to use in the Legislature and to share with members of Congress.

Border Coalition members say the fence harms the border region's business, culture and wildlife habitat.

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