SB 81 Texas Senate · 89th Legislature (2025)

Relating to the authority of the Department of Public Safety to act during a state of invasion or imminent danger on the Texas-Mexico border.

SB 81 authorizes the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to take specific actions during a declared "state of invasion or imminent danger" along the Texas-Mexico border. It directly affects individuals crossing the border illegally, migrants apprehended near the border, and suspected cartel members. Key provisions include allowing DPS to detect and repel unauthorized border crossings away from ports, return certain apprehended migrants to Mexico, inspect cargo for drugs and smuggling, and use force against known cartel operatives. The bill requires a two-thirds legislative vote for immediate effect or takes effect September 1, 2025, if not approved. This legislation expands DPS authority under Texas and U.S. constitutional provisions.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Nov 2024
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Nov 12, 2024 Last action Feb 3, 2025
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Full legislative history

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Total actions
4
Key actions
0
Committee
1
Feb 3, 2025
Committee
Referred to Border Security
upper
Feb 3, 2025
Introduced
Read first time
upper
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors

Sponsors

Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Photo of Bob Hall
Bob Hall
RRepublican
TX
2