Texas House Bill HB114

Texas 2021 - 87th 2nd C.S.

Caption

Relating to requirements for the use on this state's international border of security cameras and for camera data storage from those cameras.

Impact

The implementation of HB 114 is expected to strengthen the regulations governing how security measures are managed at the state's borders. By ensuring that both the equipment and the data storage solutions are sourced domestically, the bill aims to enhance security while potentially stimulating the domestic technology industry. The requirement for U.S.-made cameras and storage solutions reflects a growing trend to focus on national security through domestic production.

Summary

House Bill 114 establishes specific requirements for using security cameras along Texas's international border. The Act mandates that any security cameras utilized for monitoring must be manufactured in the United States and that the data collected from these cameras must be stored on devices operated by U.S.-based companies. This is part of a broader initiative to enhance border security in a manner that also emphasizes national and local manufacturing capabilities.

Contention

While the bill promotes national security and local economic benefits, it may also be met with criticism regarding its exclusivity. Opponents might argue that such restrictions could limit competition and innovation in the border security sector by excluding potentially superior or more cost-effective foreign technologies. Further discussions in legislative sessions will likely address the balance between security imperatives and the principles of open competition in technology.

Additional_details

HB 114's provisions apply specifically to contracts made for the procurement of security cameras or associated data storage after the bill's effective date, which is set for January 1, 2022. This establishes a clear timeline for the implementation of these new regulations, affecting future investments in border security infrastructure.