American health care costs have reached staggering heights, largely due to the financial burden posed by non-citizens, particularly in states like Texas. New data from the Texas Health and Human Services Commission reveals that illegal immigrants cost Texas hospitals over $1 billion in fiscal year 2025 alone. This figure stems from about 313,742 hospital visits recorded for those “not legally present.” The use of euphemisms for “illegal alien” reflects a tendency to sidestep the harsh truths of the situation.
The revelations are tied directly to an executive order from Texas Governor Greg Abbott. He mandated that state hospitals track the financial impact of illegal immigration on health care in August 2024. It’s important to recognize that this data collection started only months before these numbers were unveiled; yet they already indicate a staggering financial cost. Emergency department visits accounted for nearly $230 million, while inpatient care exceeded $820 million. This suggests that extended hospital stays, rather than just emergency care, significantly drive up costs.
Remarkably, these figures have eclipsed earlier estimates. In 2021, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton predicted the cost of uncompensated care for illegal aliens at around $579 million to $717 million annually. The latest data shows Texas is grappling with a bill far greater than even the high end of Paxton’s estimate. This trend isn’t isolated to Texas alone; the influx of over 10 million illegal immigrants during the Biden administration has placed incredible strain on public services across the country, with Texas bearing the brunt of this crisis.
The effects of this border crisis extend beyond immediate costs. Many illegal immigrants who crossed the border do not remain in Texas, leading to tensions between states. Texas initiated Operation Lone Star to enforce immigration laws locally when federal initiatives fell short. Yet, despite the program’s efforts to relocate individuals, a significant number still reside in the state, adding to the existing burdens on public resources.
Data provides clarity that cannot be ignored. The numbers documented reflect a harsh reality, with ongoing implications for the social safety net. With taxpayers increasingly footing the bill for medical care provided to undocumented residents, there is a growing reluctance to sustain these safety nets for citizens. This reluctance stems from a valid concern that resources will be exploited, highlighting a systemic issue within immigration policy.
As the statistics indicate, the financial consequences of the Biden administration’s handling of immigration are far-reaching. Ironically, individuals who do contribute to the tax system could see their health care costs rise because of practices perceived as accommodating those unlawfully present in the country. Such dynamics emphasize the urgent need for effective immigration control. With medical care now intertwined with the ongoing debates about border security, it becomes increasingly clear that the ramifications of current policies will echo for years to come.
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