Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB2218

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to a study on the use of fiber-optic technology for the purpose of border security.

Impact

The bill, if enacted, would not directly modify existing laws but would lay the groundwork for evaluating fiber-optic technology's role in border security. Its implementation could lead to significant updates in how the state approaches border monitoring and security, particularly using advanced technologies. The local and state law enforcement agencies could gain new capabilities for surveillance and detection, potentially affecting how border security operations are structured in Texas.

Summary

SB2218 is proposed legislation that directs the Department of Public Safety to conduct a study on the feasibility of using fiber-optic technology to enhance border security along the Texas-Mexico border. The study will examine various aspects, including implementation costs, effectiveness as a security tool, and the potential for partnering with private entities. The findings are to be reported to key state officials and appropriate legislative committees by September 1, 2024. This bill seeks to explore innovative technological solutions in response to border security challenges.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB2218 appears to be cautiously optimistic, with support primarily from legislators interested in exploring new methods for improving border security. However, there may be concerns regarding the feasibility of the technology and its associated costs. Stakeholders are likely examining the balance between investing in new technologies and the efficacy of those investments in the context of border management.

Contention

Notable points of contention could arise regarding the costs associated with implementing fiber-optic technology. Critics may argue that funds could be better allocated to existing security measures or community programs rather than investing in new technology that may not yield immediate results. Additionally, discussions about public-private partnerships could spark debates about accountability and management in security roles, particularly in sensitive areas like border control.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4422

Relating to a study on enhancing border security outcomes through public safety, technological, and transportation infrastructure improvements near Texas-Mexico border crossings.

TX HB3782

Relating to establishing the Border Security Advisory Council and the Border Protection Task Force.

TX HB1836

Relating to a study and report by the General Land Office on private landowner participation in border security.

TX HB4306

Relating to border security infrastructure enhancement projects and the creation of a fund to pay for those projects; allocating the earnings on the balance of that fund and reimbursement of related expenditures; including a study on water retention infrastructure near the border.

TX HB4092

Relating to grants for homeland security and border security purposes.

TX SB1598

Information technology; security; office

TX HB13

Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing the Texas Homeland Security Division and the Border Security Advisory Council, and to compensate persons affected by those threats.

TX HB993

Emerging Innovative Border Technologies ActThis bill requires U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Science and Technology Directorate of the Department of Homeland Security to develop a plan to identify, integrate, and deploy emerging and innovative technologies to improve border security operations. Such technologies may incorporate artificial intelligence, machine-learning, automation, fiber-optic sensing technology, nanotechnology, optical and cognitive radar, modeling and simulation technology, hyperspectral and LIDAR sensors, and imaging, identification, and categorization systems. The bill authorizes CBP to establish one or more Innovation Teams to research and adapt commercial technologies that may be used by CBP.The plan must describe how the Innovation Teams have been implemented and also detailgoals and timelines for adoption of qualifying technologies,metrics and key performance parameters for determining the plan's effectiveness,which technologies used by other federal agencies CBP may also utilize,which existing authorities CBP may use to procure technologies,how CBP legacy border technology programs may be replaced,the expected privacy and security impact of security-related technology on border communities, andrecent technological advancements in specified technologies.CBP must provide the plan to Congress within 180 days of the bill’s enactment. The bill also requires CBP to annually report to Congress regarding the activities of the Innovation Teams.

TX HB5520

Relating to border protection and economic development services, programs, and other measures, including measures to recruit health care professionals to the border region, improve border inspection efficiency, and enhance border region airport security and capacity, and establishing certain educational programs.

TX HB209

Relating to border security enhancement projects, the creation of a fund to pay for those projects, and a study on certain projects; allocating the earnings on the fund balance and reimbursement of related expenditures; granting the power of eminent domain.

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