Tribal Nonprofit Sues to Block 62-Mile Big Bend Border Wall Project
Updated
Updated · KSAT San Antonio · Aug 14
Tribal Nonprofit Sues to Block 62-Mile Big Bend Border Wall Project
3 articles · Updated · KSAT San Antonio · Aug 14
Summary
A tribal nonprofit, an outdoor recreation company and two Texans asked a federal judge in San Antonio to halt Big Bend border wall-related work, saying it violates U.S. law and religious-freedom protections.
The suit targets a June 9 order by DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin that waived federal and state requirements for construction along 62 miles of the Mexico border, while arguing park-protection duties were not waived.
Plaintiffs say roads, drainage, erosion controls, lighting, cameras and sensors would irreparably damage archaeological sites and sacred Indigenous landscapes once heavy machinery disturbs them.
The filing lands amid widening backlash: 46 Texas House members urged Gov. Greg Abbott to seek an immediate stop, and Sen. John Cornyn asked DHS to meet residents before further work.
DHS and CBP have called reports of a wall through Big Bend "fear mongering" and said current activity is survey and design work, though a July map showed 2 miles of 30-foot wall segments planned in Big Bend Ranch State Park.