AUSTIN, Texas — Texas Gov. Greg Abbott on Tuesday announced a new state-led effort to relocate unhoused people and remove encampments around Austin.

“Texans should not endure public safety risks from homeless encampments and individuals,” Abbott said in a statement. “Weapons, needles and other debris should not litter the streets of our community, and the state of Texas is taking action. I directed state agencies to address this risk and make Austin safer and cleaner for residents and visitors to live, travel and conduct business.”

While Abbott said the operation will make Austin safer and cleaner, Austin Mayor Kirk Watson said the state's efforts lack empathy.

“It's a disappointing day in large part because we're doing so well and we've got so many people that care so much about what's

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