Summary
Texas lawmakers are considering a plan to change the state’s borders to include parts of neighboring New Mexico. This proposal, initially introduced by New Mexico Republicans, would allow certain New Mexico counties to become part of Texas if enough local voters agree. Similar attempts to redraw state boundaries have occurred in other states like Oregon and Virginia, but none have resulted in actual border changes.
Key Facts
- Texas is considering expanding its borders into New Mexico.
- The proposal was introduced by New Mexico Republicans Randall Pettigrew and Jimmy Mason.
- At least 15% of voters in three or more New Mexico counties would need to request a ballot on the change for 2026.
- House Speaker Dustin Burrows supports studying the proposal further.
- Changes to state borders require approval by both states' legislatures and the U.S. Congress.
- Similar boundary change attempts have happened in Oregon, Virginia, and other states but have not led to actual changes.
