TITLE: Relating to the creation, operation, and powers of the Texas Division of Homeland Security.

SUMMARY: Relating to the creation, operation, and powers of the Texas Division of Homeland Security.

FULL TEXT:
AN ACT relating to the creation, operation, and powers of the Texas Division of Homeland Security. BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS: SECTION 1. Chapter 411, Government Code, is amended by adding Subchapter B-2 to read as follows: SUBCHAPTER B-2. TEXAS DIVISION OF HOMELAND SECURITY Sec. 411.0281. DEFINITION. In this subchapter, "division" means the Texas Division of Homeland Security created under this subchapter. Sec. 411.0282. CREATION OF DIVISION; CHIEF. (a) The Texas Division of Homeland Security is created as a division of the department. (b) Notwithstanding Section 411.015, the division may not be abolished. (c) The director shall appoint a chief to be the division's chief administrative officer. Sec. 411.0283. BORDER OPERATIONS. The division may conduct border security operations along the Texas-Mexico border, including: (1) law enforcement operations; (2) intelligence gathering, analysis, and dissemination; (3) coordination and command of state agencies in border security operations led by the division; (4) surveillance and detection of criminal activity, including illegal entry of individuals from foreign nations and the smuggling of individuals and controlled substances, using cameras, unmanned aircraft, and other technologies; (5) interdiction of individuals committing criminal activity described by Subdivision (4); (6) coordination of local, state, and federal agencies conducting border security operations, including tactical operations such as special response teams, brush teams, and special weapons and tactics teams; and (7) training and education programs for the professional development of employees and agency partners carrying out border security operations. SECTION 2. This Act takes effect September 1, 2025.