The Border Protection Unit Act aims to enhance safety and welfare in Texas's border region by addressing criminal activities and public health threats, particularly from transnational cartels. It establishes the Border Protection Unit within the Department of Public Safety, which will enforce laws and secure the state's borders. The Act includes the appointment of a unit chief by the governor, the creation of an office of audit and review, and an inspector general to ensure accountability. The unit will consist of both commissioned and noncommissioned officers and will operate until December 31, 2032, unless extended by the legislature. Key provisions grant commissioned officers the authority to make arrests related to unlawful border crossings and construct physical barriers along the Texas-Mexico border.

Additionally, the bill introduces new offenses related to trespassing from neighboring jurisdictions, classifying it as a third-degree felony, and mandates electronic monitoring for defendants arrested for such offenses. It establishes a Legislative Border Safety Oversight Committee to provide research and recommendations for state border safety policies and oversees the Border Protection Unit. The bill also allows for the suspension of entry from designated places during public health emergencies and includes provisions for conducting committee meetings via technology, ensuring public accessibility. A severability clause is included to maintain the enforceability of remaining provisions if any part of the bill is found unconstitutional. The act is set to take effect immediately upon a two-thirds vote or on September 1, 2025, if that vote is not achieved.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 221.011, Government Code 411.004, Government Code 411.006, Government Code 411.007, Government Code 411.017 (Government Code 221, Government Code 411)