Texas House Bill HB91

Texas 2021 - 87th 1st C.S.

Caption

Relating to border security enhancement projects, 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.

Impact

The bill reaffirms the state's commitment to bolster security measures at the border while also granting the Texas Department of Public Safety expanded powers, including the ability to exercise eminent domain for acquiring land necessary for these projects. This could have significant implications for property rights and local communities along the border, as land could potentially be taken without the property owner's consent if deemed a public necessity. The bill aims to provide a robust framework for funding and executing border security projects, which supporters argue is essential for protecting state and national security interests.

Summary

House Bill 91 aims to enhance border security in Texas by establishing a dedicated fund, known as the border security enhancement fund, for financing security projects along the state’s international border. The bill outlines specific uses for the fund, which include planning, designing, constructing, and maintaining technology and transportation infrastructure, such as a border wall named after former President Donald J. Trump, as well as commercial vehicle inspection infrastructure at border ports. Additionally, the bill permits the Texas Department of Public Safety to contract for necessary projects and mandates the use of contractors who participate in the E-verify program to ensure lawful employment verification, thereby addressing concerns over illegal immigration and human trafficking.

Contention

Despite the bill's provisions for enhancing border security, it has sparked notable contention among legislators and community advocates. Proponents argue that more stringent measures are necessary to control illegal entry into the state and prevent human trafficking, while critics point out potential overreach in exercising eminent domain and the prioritization of construction projects over addressing complex immigration issues more holistically. The specific mention of the wall named after Trump has also drawn mixed reactions, symbolizing deep divisions in public opinion regarding immigration policy and border security measures.

Last_action

The bill is subject to legislative approval and requires a two-thirds majority vote in both houses for immediate effect; otherwise, it will take effect after a designated period following the end of the legislative session. The successful passage of this bill would represent a significant shift in state policy, focusing heavily on infrastructure as a key component of border security.