TX
Texas House Bill HB2862

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas House Bill HB2862

Caption

Relating to border security 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.

Impact

The implementation of HB 2862 is poised to significantly affect state laws related to border security and public safety measures. The bill mandates that contractors engaged in these security projects must be Texas-based or established entities, thus prioritizing local investment and employment. Additionally, the law emphasizes the necessity for consultation with the General Land Office and federal authorities to ensure that the activities financed by the fund align with both state and national security protocols.

Summary

House Bill 2862 establishes a Border Security Enhancement Fund aimed at preventing illegal entry and human trafficking across Texas's international border. The bill outlines the creation of a dedicated fund that will be administered by the state department, designated for various border security projects. This includes the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of essential infrastructure improvements at ports of entry, such as water and transportation systems, alongside a specific mandate to construct a wall that will be referred to as the "President Donald J. Trump Wall." The fund aims to bolster existing efforts in border security and ensure that local infrastructure complies with federal specifications.

Contention

Discussions surrounding HB 2862 could lead to points of contention particularly over its financing and the implications of utilizing state funds specifically earmarked for border security activities. Some critics argue that prioritizing certain local contractors may limit competition and increase project costs. There may also be significant concerns regarding the environmental and social ramifications of building a border wall and its efficacy in truly addressing the challenges of human trafficking and illegal immigration. Overall, the bill reflects broader national debates about the adequacy and morality of border enforcement strategies.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

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.

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 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 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 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 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 HB75

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 HB85

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.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.