The legislation outlines that the Secretary of the DHS is to develop a homeland security threat assessment regarding the cross-border implications of ghost guns, particularly concerning their association with transnational criminal organizations. This aspect addresses not only the potential domestic use of these firearms but also the alarming trend of U.S.-sourced ghost guns appearing in violent crimes outside the country. Furthermore, the bill calls for the U.S. Secret Service and the Under Secretary for Intelligence and Analysis to contribute to ongoing assessments of ghost guns as a plausible instrument of domestic terrorism. Regular reports on these assessments are to be disseminated to appropriate law enforcement bodies and Congress, making the implications of this bill quite significant in addressing national security and public safety.
Summary
House Bill 2698, titled the 'Bolstering Security Against Ghost Guns Act', aims to address the increasing concern over ghost guns—untraceable firearms that can be assembled from kits or made from unfinished parts. This bill directs the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to formulate a strategy specifically targeting the threats posed by these firearms. It mandates the issuance of a comprehensive plan that enhances collaboration across various levels of government and incorporates input from federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial partners. The strategy must be developed within one year of the bill's enactment and prioritize the enhancement of information sharing among relevant departments.
Contention
There is likely to be contention around this bill, particularly related to its implications for gun rights and the potential overreach of federal powers into personal firearm ownership. Critics may argue that the measures proposed might infringe on Second Amendment rights, while supporters might argue for the necessity of such measures given the rising incidents of gun violence. The bill emphasizes compiling data and improving response capabilities but may face opposition regarding how it affects existing rights and regulations surrounding firearms in the United States.
Office of Homeland Security; transferring the Office of Homeland Security from the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management to the Department of Public Safety. Emergency.
State government; creating the Targeted Violence Prevention Act; authorizing the Department of Homeland Security and Oklahoma Counter Terrorism Intelligence Center to collect, analyze, and disseminate certain information to law enforcement and public safety agencies; codification; emergency.
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.