Texas officials have launched a Birth Tourism Investigation after the governor directed the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) to review a South Texas hospital’s advertising practices. Officials will determine whether the hospital violated state laws or contractual obligations by promoting maternity services to foreign nationals in Mexico.
Mission Regional Medical Center confirmed that it placed Spanish-language “Birth Packages in South Texas” billboards near the U.S.-Mexico border. The advertisements offered childbirth packages starting at $3,950 for natural deliveries. They also listed Cesarean section packages beginning at $5,525. The campaign directed prospective patients to a dedicated website that has since been removed.
The hospital said the campaign included two billboards within approximately five miles of its facility. Both signs stood near a U.S.-Mexico border crossing. They displayed a telephone number beginning with the international dialing code used to reach the United States from Mexico. The hospital removed the billboards and website after images spread across social media.
Hospital representatives said the advertising campaign began in 2021. However, they did not specify when the billboards were installed. They explained that the hospital discontinued the marketing materials because they could have caused unintended misunderstandings. The hospital also stated that it does not support or facilitate unlawful activity. It added that it follows all applicable federal and state laws and regulations.
In a July 7 letter, the governor instructed HHSC Executive Commissioner Stephanie Muth to begin an immediate and thorough review. He directed investigators to examine the hospital’s activities for potential violations. The order also instructed officials to refer any confirmed violations to the Texas Attorney General for possible civil enforcement. It further called for referrals to the appropriate district or county attorney if criminal prosecution appears warranted.
The governor described birth tourism as an illegal practice. He said some foreign travelers allegedly enter the United States under false pretenses. According to the letter, they do so to give birth and obtain U.S. citizenship for their children.
The governor also stated that American citizenship is not for sale. He said Texas would not allow its healthcare system to become a destination for such practices. He added that he plans to work with the Texas Legislature during its next session. His goal is to strengthen state laws and eliminate birth tourism in Texas.
The hospital said it will cooperate fully with local and state officials during the investigation. It also stated that its priority remains providing safe, high-quality medical care to every patient seeking treatment.
The Birth Tourism Investigation continues while legal challenges involving President Donald Trump’s executive order move through the courts. The order seeks to limit automatic birthright citizenship for certain children born in the United States. Those legal proceedings remain unresolved as Texas officials continue reviewing the hospital’s advertising campaign.
