TX
Texas House Bill HB84

Texas 2023 - 88th 4th C.S.

Texas House Bill HB84

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the Department of Public Safety performing rapid DNA testing of certain individuals crossing the Texas-Mexico border.

Impact

The bill has significant implications for state law as it mandates the DPS to destroy biological samples after testing, ensuring that no database of DNA profiles is maintained. This aligns the state's process with privacy considerations while still addressing the high-stakes nature of immigration enforcement. By enabling rapid DNA tests, supporters argue that it will help reveal true familial connections and better inform law enforcement actions, potentially preventing wrongful detentions. However, this could raise ethical concerns regarding the rapidity and the context in which families are tested.

Summary

House Bill 84 proposes the implementation of a rapid DNA testing program by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) for certain individuals crossing the Texas-Mexico border. The legislation aims to facilitate the rapid processing of DNA tests for individuals believed to be misrepresenting family relationships during federal immigration enforcement actions. This bill intends to enhance the efficiency of immigration-related determinations at the state level by allowing DPS to collaborate with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in performing these tests expediently.

Sentiment

General sentiment around HB 84 appears to be divided. Proponents, which likely include various law enforcement agencies and state officials, view the bill as a necessary step for effective immigration enforcement and an essential tool in addressing issues associated with human trafficking and fraudulent claims of familial ties. Conversely, critics might express concerns regarding the implications of such testing, including issues of consent, privacy rights, and the potential for misuse of DNA testing in sensitive situations involving families.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the implications of DNA testing in contexts where individuals are crossing international borders, especially related to the family unit. Critics might argue that the bill risks undermining the privacy and dignity of individuals subjected to testing without adequate safeguards. Moreover, the partnership with federal authorities could evoke fears within immigrant communities about the potential for increased surveillance and enforcement of federal immigration laws, leading to further debates about the balance between law enforcement needs and civil liberties.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

  • Chapter 421. Homeland Security
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB12

Relating to the Department of Public Safety performing rapid DNA testing of certain individuals crossing the Texas-Mexico border.

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 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.

TX HB87

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 HB4422

Relating to a study on enhancing border security outcomes through public safety, technological, and transportation infrastructure improvements near Texas-Mexico border crossings.

TX HB4628

Relating to the duties of law enforcement agencies, crime laboratories, and the Department of Public Safety following the performance of certain DNA profile comparisons.

TX HB44

Relating to measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the southern border region of this state, including protection from ongoing criminal activity and public health threats; creating a criminal offense; creating a civil penalty.

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 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.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.