Texas House Bill HB1761

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to the oversight of state border security activities.

Impact

The bill is poised to enhance the oversight mechanism surrounding state border security activities. By creating a dedicated advisory council, it intends to regulate how state appropriations are spent on security matters at the international border. Furthermore, the council is tasked with developing recommendations for performance standards and reporting requirements, thus potentially influencing the effectiveness and efficiency of security measures at the state border.

Summary

House Bill 1761 relates to the oversight of state border security activities in Texas. It establishes the Border Security Advisory Council, which is responsible for advising the Homeland Security Council on various matters related to border security funding and performance standards. The council will consist of representatives from relevant state agencies, local governmental entities, and municipalities, all with a stake in border security. This structure aims to ensure accountability in the utilization of funds allocated for border security purposes.

Contention

While the bill aims to increase the accountability of border security funding, it may raise concerns among local communities about the governance of these funds. Critics may argue that the newly formed council could centralize authority and diminish local input on border security issues. Additionally, there could be disputes over how funding is allocated and whether the performance standards set by the advisory council are adequately reflective of the unique needs of various border communities. As such, the balance of power between state oversight and local control may become a focal point of contention in discussions surrounding this legislation.