The Border Protection Unit Act aims to enhance safety and welfare in Texas's border region by establishing the Border Protection Unit under the Texas Department of Public Safety. This new unit will focus on enforcing laws and securing the state's borders against criminal activities, particularly those related to transnational cartels. The act outlines the appointment of a unit chief by the governor, who will oversee operations and report to the commission. Key amendments include adding the Border Protection Unit to the list of peace officers and expanding the Department of Public Safety's responsibilities to encompass border defense and security. The bill also introduces penalties for unauthorized use of department insignia and specifies the qualifications and legal protections for officers within the unit.

Additionally, the bill establishes a legislative border safety oversight committee to guide state border safety policies and oversee the Border Protection Unit. This committee will utilize statistical analyses to recommend strategies for addressing border safety issues and will be required to submit a report to the legislature every odd-numbered year. The bill also amends the Code of Criminal Procedure to mandate electronic monitoring for certain trespassing offenses and introduces a new felony for individuals entering private property while crossing into Texas. Provisions for public health emergencies, including procedures for suspending entry from designated areas, are also included. The bill allows for remote participation in committee meetings and mandates that they remain open and audible to the public, ensuring transparency and accountability in the legislative process.

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 411, Government Code 221)