TX
Texas House Bill HB87

Texas 2023 - 88th 4th C.S.

Texas House Bill HB87

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

Caption

Relating to border protection and economic development services, programs, and other measures, including establishing educational programs and the border protection unit, in this state to address certain issues affecting the border region, including transnational and other criminal activity and public health threats.

Impact

The implementation of HB87 is expected to significantly modify existing state law regarding law enforcement and economic development in border areas. State agencies will be empowered to coordinate joint efforts with the Mexican government to address border security efficiently. Additionally, the creation of a grant program for educational institutions in the border region aims to cultivate a workforce adept at handling the specific challenges posed by cross-border issues. This law could lead to enhanced public safety, infrastructure improvements, and targeted economic initiatives, promoting a more robust regional economy.

Summary

House Bill 87 aims to enhance border protection and economic development services in the state of Texas. The legislation encompasses a range of measures designed to address issues that affect the border region, including transnational crime and public health threats. The bill proposes the establishment of educational programs and the formation of a dedicated border protection unit. Furthermore, HB87 includes provisions for coordinating agreements with Mexican authorities to bolster safety measures and improve economic opportunities along the border.

Sentiment

Sentiment around HB87 appears to be mixed, with strong advocacy from proponents who argue that increased border security is vital for public safety and economic growth. Supporters view the measures offered by this bill as necessary steps to protect Texas from various threats and to strengthen economic ties with Mexico. However, some critics are wary of the bill's implications, citing concerns about potential overreach in law enforcement and the prioritization of security over public health considerations, which may disproportionately affect specific communities in the region.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB87 include debates over its funding mechanisms and the balance between security and community well-being. Critics argue that without transparent funding and oversight, the establishment of a border protection unit could lead to excessive policing. Furthermore, there are concerns that the focus on enhancing security might overshadow necessary investments in public health and preventative measures within the border community. The bill's language, particularly around the execution of agreements with the Mexican government, also raises questions about the involvement of local governments in enforcing these measures.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

  • Chapter 72. Office Of Court Administration
    • Section: New Section

Latest HB87 Activity

Companion Bills

TX HB80

Duplicate Relating to border protection and economic development services, programs, and other measures, including establishing educational programs and the border protection unit, in this state to address certain issues affecting the border region, including transnational and other criminal activity and public health threats.

Similar Bills

TX HB200

Relating to border protection and economic development services, programs, and other measures, including establishing educational programs and the border protection unit, in this state to address certain issues affecting the border region, including transnational and other criminal activity and public health threats.

TX HB80

Relating to border protection and economic development services, programs, and other measures, including establishing educational programs and the border protection unit, in this state to address certain issues affecting the border region, including transnational and other criminal activity and public health threats.

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 HB4307

Relating to the creation of the office of inspector within the State Auditor's Office and the appointment of deputy inspectors general at the Health and Human Services Commission, Texas Youth Commission, Texas Department of Criminal Justice, Texas Education Agency, and Texas Department of Transportation; providing penalties.

TX HB2942

Relating to accountability and transparency in government operations, including disclosure, oversight, and enforcement measures; providing penalties.

TX HB13

Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing the Texas Homeland Security Division and the Border Security Advisory Council, and to compensate persons affected by those threats.

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.

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.