STOP Act

HR 7074, the STOP Act, authorizes the State of Texas to implement its own border security measures - including physical barriers, increased patrols, and surveillance - along the southern border without federal approval. The bill directly affects Texas residents and state agencies, empowering the Governor to designate vulnerable border areas for security enhancements and directing the Texas Department of Public Safety to coordinate these efforts. Key provisions include state authority to construct barriers (like walls or fences) and seek reimbursement from the federal government for associated costs, following findings that federal inaction has led to over 6.7 million illegal crossings since 2021. The Act takes effect 60 days after enactment.