Texas 2023 - 88th 1st C.S.

Texas Senate Bill SB8

Filed
5/31/23  
Out of Senate Committee
6/6/23  
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing a Texas Border Force and making funds available to certain governmental entities.

Impact

The implementation of SB8 is expected to have significant implications for state laws related to border security. It provides the framework for a new state law enforcement entity, the Texas Border Force, which will operate alongside existing federal border control mechanisms. This could result in enhanced law enforcement presence and capabilities in border areas, potentially leading to more rigorous enforcement of border-related laws and increased collaboration among state and local entities. The bill also allocates resources for infrastructure improvements in the border region, which can strengthen overall local enforcement capacity.

Summary

Senate Bill 8 (SB8) aims to address public safety threats in Texas that arise from transnational criminal activity. The bill establishes a Texas Border Force to enhance border security and appropriates funds to state and local governments for various border protection initiatives. It specifically empowers the governor to develop agreements with the Mexican government to improve safety and security measures along the Texas-Mexico border. Notably, the bill is framed as a response to ongoing concerns regarding illegal immigration, drug trafficking, and other forms of crime that impact communities along the border.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Senate Bill 8 is mixed, with staunch support primarily from Republican lawmakers who emphasize the need for stronger measures against crime at the border. They view the establishment of a dedicated Border Force as a necessary step towards enhancing public safety. Conversely, opponents, including some Democratic legislators and advocacy groups, express concerns about the potential for overreach and misuse of power. They argue that the bill may replicate federal efforts, leading to inefficiencies and unnecessary expenditures of taxpayer dollars, as well as potential conflicts between state and federal agencies.

Contention

Key points of contention relate to the effectiveness and operational efficiency of the proposed Texas Border Force. Critics question whether establishing a state-level border patrol will provide significant benefits beyond those already offered by federal agencies responsible for border security. Additionally, the potential lack of local oversight and accountability has sparked debate about the possible risks of granting extensive powers to the new force. Advocates argue that the measure is essential for addressing sophisticated transnational crimes, while opponents warn it could result in bureaucratic inefficiencies and undermine established jurisdictional boundaries.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

  • Chapter 411. Department Of Public Safety Of The State Of Texas
    • Section: 0043
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 0043
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 0043
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 2155. Purchasing: General Rules And Procedures
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 772. Governmental Planning
    • Section: 011
    • Section: 011
    • Section: 011
  • Chapter 421. Homeland Security
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB7

Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing a Texas Border Force, and to compensate persons affected by those threats; increasing criminal penalties; creating criminal offenses.

TX HB20

Relating to measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the border region of this state, including protection from ongoing criminal activity and public health threats and the establishment of the Border Protection Unit; creating a criminal offense; creating a civil penalty.

TX HB3782

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

TX SB11

Relating to measures for ensuring safety and security in public schools, including measures related to the health and safety of public school students and active shooter training for certain peace officers.

TX HB3

Relating to measures for ensuring public school safety, including the development and implementation of purchases relating to and funding for public school safety and security requirements and the provision of safety-related resources.

TX HB4979

Relating to measures for ensuring safety and security in public schools, including measures related to certain student records and conduct.

TX SB1427

Relating to certain criminal conduct and organizations that threaten the security of this state and its residents and borders; increasing criminal penalties.

TX SCR29

Declaring an invasion of the State of Texas by transnational cartel terrorists, urging the governor to accelerate the construction of a wall along the Southern Border, and urging Congress to deploy military forces to combat transnational cartels.

TX HB90

Relating to benefits for certain members of the Texas military forces and survivors of members of the Texas military forces.

TX SB155

Relating to benefits for certain members of the Texas military forces and survivors of members of the Texas military forces.

Similar Bills

TX SB640

Relating to electronic technology infrastructure.

TX SB2383

Relating to statewide technology centers and cloud computing services.

TX HB2884

Relating to statewide technology centers and cloud computing services.

TX HB126

Relating to impeding illegal entry into Texas by providing more funding for the construction, operation, and maintenance of border barrier infrastructure.

TX HB43

Relating to the Texas emerging technology fund; redesignating the fund as the Texas Research Technology Fund.

TX HB44

Relating to the Texas emerging technology fund; redesignating the fund as the Texas Research Technology Fund.

TX HB3526

Relating to instructional materials and technology for public schools.

TX HB3162

Relating to the Texas emerging technology fund; redesignating the fund as the Texas Research Technology Fund.