New Texas laws aim to strengthen border security and curb illegal immigration

With illegal immigration and border security remaining central concerns for voters and lawmakers alike, the 89th Texas Legislature responded with a slate of measures designed to bolster enforcement, increase interagency cooperation, and place new restrictions on foreign influence within the state. While several bills sparked heated partisan debate, others passed with the backing of both chambers and now await Governor Greg Abbott’s signature.

Senate Bill 8: Enhancing State-Federal Law Enforcement Coordination

The centerpiece of this session’s border security legislation, Senate Bill 8, generated sharp contention between the Texas House and Senate before a compromise was reached in conference committee. The final version, now headed to Governor Abbott’s desk, provides what lawmakers are calling “universal coverage” — giving all Texas sheriffs the authority to cooperate directly with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in the enforcement of immigration law.

Supporters argue the measure empowers local jurisdictions to play a more active role in curbing illegal border crossings and detaining undocumented immigrants who commit state crimes. Critics, however, voiced concerns about civil liberties and potential overreach by law enforcement.

“Jocelyn’s Law” Falls Short in House

Another high-profile proposal, Senate Joint Resolution 1, also known as “Jocelyn’s Law,” fell short of passage after a lengthy debate. Authored by Sen. Joan Huffman (R-Houston), the proposed constitutional amendment would have required mandatory detention, without bail, for individuals in the U.S. illegally who are accused of committing violent crimes.

Although it passed the Senate, the resolution failed to reach the two-thirds threshold (100 votes) required in the House to move forward. Republican leaders blamed the bill’s demise on Democratic opposition, while Democrats raised concerns about constitutional rights and the risk of wrongful detention.

Foreign Land Ownership Restrictions Pass After Intense Debate

A separate measure, Senate Bill 17, also stirred considerable debate. The bill bans individuals and entities from countries deemed adversarial — including China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia — from purchasing land in Texas. The proposal, introduced in response to national security concerns, faced both practical and philosophical challenges during debate, including concerns about racial profiling and its impact on lawful immigrants or international students.

Following extensive revisions, the bill passed and is now set to become law. It reflects a growing trend in state legislatures nationwide to scrutinize foreign investment in land and infrastructure near military bases and other sensitive sites.

New Homeland Security Division Established

Senate Bill 36, introduced by Sen. Tan Parker (R-Flower Mound), creates a new Homeland Security Division within the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). The division will centralize border-related intelligence, strategy, and coordination across agencies — a priority of Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick. Proponents argue that consolidating efforts will improve the state’s ability to respond quickly to evolving threats at the border.

Record-Breaking Budget Includes Billions for Border Security

Texas’ new biennium budget of $338 billion includes $3.3 billion specifically earmarked for border security, underscoring how central the issue remains in state policymaking. This funding covers a broad range of initiatives, from surveillance technology and trooper deployments to ongoing construction of the Texas border wall — a project launched by the state in response to what leaders say is insufficient federal action.

Governor Abbott, along with Republican lawmakers, continues to seek reimbursement from the Biden administration for costs incurred during wall construction. So far, federal officials have resisted those requests.

National Context: State Efforts Mirror Trump-Era Policies

Texas’ approach echoes many of the priorities emphasized during the administration of former President Donald Trump, who used executive orders and regulatory changes to tighten immigration enforcement. Though President Joe Biden has reversed many of those measures, the state’s leadership argues that local action is necessary amid what they characterize as a lack of federal resolve.

Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has reported “dramatic shifts” in enforcement strategies and a “dramatic drop” in border crossings in recent months — trends some attribute to increased state activity and cooperation with federal agencies.

Looking Ahead

As these laws are implemented, the public can expect ongoing debate over their scope, fairness, and effectiveness. Legal challenges may arise, particularly in areas concerning civil liberties and constitutional rights. Nevertheless, for now, Texas is pushing full steam ahead in a direction that reflects the continued political and public urgency surrounding border security and immigration enforcement.