H.B. No. 176 amends Section 794.003 of the Government Code to enhance the provisions required in an interstate compact on border security. The bill mandates that the compact must include joint actions among participating states, which encompass sharing law enforcement intelligence regarding illegal activities at the Texas-Mexico border, collaborating on the construction of physical barriers and technological surveillance systems, and ensuring the protection of personnel and property. Additionally, the bill introduces new provisions that emphasize the importance of operational control of the Texas-Mexico border and mutual support for necessary resources, including infrastructure and personnel, to achieve the compact's objectives.

Furthermore, the bill allows for the compact to facilitate joint actions on the execution and enforcement of agreements with federal agencies, such as the U.S. Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security, specifically for enforcing immigration laws. The changes made by this Act will only apply to interstate compacts entered into after its effective date, while those established prior will continue to be governed by the previous law. The Act is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if such a vote is not achieved.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 794.003 (Government Code 794)
House Committee Report: Government Code 794.003 (Government Code 794)