TX
Texas House Bill HB2607

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Texas House Bill HB2607

Caption

Relating to checkpoints established by the Department of Public Safety at roadways entering this state from New Mexico or Oklahoma.

Impact

The bill amends Section 411 of the Government Code to authorize DPS to set up checkpoints specifically on public highways leading into Texas. These checkpoints will operate under strict conditions, ensuring that stops are made only when law enforcement has probable cause to suspect illegal activity. This stipulation is designed to protect citizen's rights while still allowing law enforcement to address potential criminal activities effectively. The checkpoints will be a collaborative effort between the DPS and local law enforcement agencies, sharing staffing and operational costs.

Summary

House Bill 2607 mandates the establishment of checkpoints by the Department of Public Safety (DPS) at roadways entering Texas from New Mexico or Oklahoma. The primary goal of these checkpoints is to prevent controlled substances and other criminal activities from entering the state. This bill is part of a broader initiative aimed at strengthening state border security, especially given Texas's geographical position and the ongoing issues with drug trafficking across its borders. By implementing these checkpoints, lawmakers intend to bolster public safety and reduce the incidence of illegal drug trade in Texas.

Contention

Notably, there may be concerns regarding civil liberties and the potential for racial profiling. Critics may argue that the establishment of these checkpoints could lead to unjustified stops and detentions, particularly given the subjective nature of probable cause. Furthermore, there could be apprehension about the resources allocated for these checkpoints when considering their effectiveness in actually reducing crime rates. Supporters, however, would likely counter that these measures are essential for the safety of Texas communities and crucial in combating the ongoing challenges posed by drug trafficking.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB2883

Relating to checkpoints established by the Department of Public Safety at roadways entering this state from New Mexico.

TX HB127

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

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 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 HB61

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 SB8

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.

TX SB1620

Relating to the prosecution and punishment of certain criminal offenses committed in the course of or for the purpose of unlawfully entering the United States, unlawfully bypassing certain law enforcement checkpoints, or evading an arrest or detention; increasing criminal penalties.

TX HB11

Relating to the procedure following the apprehension of an undocumented individual by the Department of Public Safety for illegal entry into this state from Mexico during certain declared disasters; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB54

Relating to the procedure following the apprehension of an undocumented individual by the Department of Public Safety for illegal entry into this state from Mexico during certain declared disasters; creating a criminal offense.

Similar Bills

TX SB1418

Relating to the authority of the Department of Public Safety and certain local law enforcement agencies to establish a temporary checkpoint on a highway or street to determine whether persons are driving while intoxicated.

TX HB439

Relating to the authority of the Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas and certain local law enforcement agencies to establish a checkpoint on a highway or street to determine whether persons are driving while intoxicated.

TX SB531

Relating to the authority of the Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas and certain local law enforcement agencies to establish a checkpoint on a highway or street to determine whether persons are driving while intoxicated.

TX SB298

Relating to the authority of the Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas and certain local law enforcement agencies to establish a checkpoint on a highway or street to determine whether persons are driving while intoxicated.

TX HB169

Relating to the authority of the Texas Department of Public Safety and certain local law enforcement agencies to establish a checkpoint on a highway or street to determine whether persons are driving while intoxicated.

TX HB48

Relating to authorizing the Department of Public Safety to operate one or more southbound vehicle checkpoints near the international border of this state for the purpose of preventing certain criminal offenses.

US SB2367

CHECKPOINT Act Continuing High-quality Evaluations of Concerning and Known Persons Of Interest through National Training Updates Act

TX SB43

Relating to authorizing the Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas to operate one or more southbound vehicle checkpoints near the international border of this state for the purpose of preventing certain criminal offenses.