BILL ANALYSIS

Senate Research Center	H.B. 180
	By: Guillen et al. (Birdwell)
	Border Security
	5/9/2025
	Engrossed

AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT

Currently, there is a lack of a formal framework for Texas to collaborate directly with Mexican states and federal authorities on border security issues. While federal efforts exist, state-level cooperation with Mexican authorities could improve border security measures and enhance coordination in addressing cross-border challenges, including drug and human trafficking. H.B. 180 seeks to enhance border security efforts through international cooperation between Texas and Mexico by giving the governor the tools needed to develop and execute agreements and coordinate with Mexico and its states regarding Texas' authority to protect and defend its citizens.

H.B. 180 amends current law relating to border protection agreements between this state and the United Mexican States.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency.

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

ARTICLE 1. LEGISLATIVE FINDING

SECTION 1.01. (a) Provides that the legislature, acting with the governor, has the solemn duty to protect and defend the citizens of this state and maintain sovereignty over this state's borders.

(b) Requires an individual entering this state from a foreign country to enter through a legal port of entry.

ARTICLE 2. BORDER PROTECTION AGREEMENTS

SECTION 2.01. Amends Title 7, Government Code, by adding Chapter 795, as follows:

CHAPTER 795. BORDER PROTECTION AGREEMENTS WITH UNITED MEXICAN STATES

Sec. 795.001. AUTHORITY FOR AGREEMENTS AND ENGAGEMENT WITH AUTHORITIES OF UNITED MEXICAN STATES. (a) Authorizes the governor, on behalf of this state, to coordinate, develop, and execute agreements with the United Mexican States and the states of the United Mexican States enhancing the authority of this state to protect and defend its citizens.

(b) Authorizes the governor to appoint one or more individuals responsible for meeting in person with the appropriate local, state, and federal authorities of the United Mexican States to coordinate, develop, and execute agreements under Subsection (a). Provides that an individual appointed under this subsection is authorized to operate within the United Mexican States as practicable and is subject to Chapter 572 (Personal Financial Disclosure, Standards of Conduct, and Conflict of Interest) in the same manner as if the individual were a state employee.

ARTICLE 3. EFFECTIVE DATE

SECTION 3.01. Effective date: upon passage or September 1, 2026.