Authorizes DPS to detect, deter, repel, prosecute unlawful border crossers, return apprehended illegal aliens to Mexico, enhance port inspections for smuggling and fentanyl, and use force against cartel operatives, increasing state immigration enforcement actions.
Pursuant to a legislative finding or governor's declaration of the existence of a state of invasion or imminent danger under Section 10, Article I, United States Constitution, the department may order personnel under the department's authority to act, and the personnel may act, as follows to the extent consistent with the United States and Texas Constitutions: (1) detect, deter, repel, and prosecute persons attempting to unlawfully enter this state at locations other than ports of entry;
Authorizes DPS to detect, deter, repel, prosecute unlawful border crossers, return apprehended illegal aliens to Mexico, enhance port inspections for smuggling and fentanyl, and use force against cartel operatives, increasing state immigration enforcement actions including border-related operations.
(1) detect, deter, repel, and prosecute persons attempting to unlawfully enter this state at locations other than ports of entry;
Authorizes DPS personnel to apprehend, detain, arrest, and return to Mexico illegal aliens observed unlawfully crossing the border, expanding state authority over migrant detention and transport.
(2) return to Mexico illegal aliens who: (A) have been observed unlawfully crossing the Texas-Mexico border; and (B) were apprehended, detained, or arrested in the vicinity of the Texas-Mexico border;
Why the model tagged it this way: The bill invokes constitutional authority for state action on the Texas-Mexico border and explicitly expands DPS powers to enforce immigration laws through detection, prosecution, returns, enhanced inspections for smuggling, and use of force against cartel operatives, directly addressing state immigration enforcement, border crimes/operations, and detention/return of migrants. No other listed topics are substantively addressed.
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