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Bill

HB 1982

Relating to limitations on federal authority and federal agents in this state, including the licensure of federal agents and special procedures for executing federal warrants; creating a criminal offense.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Briscoe Cain and 17 co-sponsors

Texas bill requiring state licensing of federal agents and special warrant procedures, criminalizing violations—likely unenforceable under federal supremacy doctrine.

Referred to State Affairs
#arrestwarrants(s0245) #attorneygeneral(v2811) #criminalprocedure--general(i0208) #federalrelations(s0862) #lawenforcement #texascommissionon(v0986) #lawenforcement(i0510) #peaceofficers(s0007) #searchwarrants(s8366) #sheriffs(s1013)
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Bill Summary · HB 1982

Legislative bill overview

HB 1982 seeks to impose state-level restrictions on federal law enforcement operations within Texas by requiring federal agents to obtain state licenses and establishing special procedures for executing federal warrants in the state. The bill creates criminal penalties for federal agents who violate these state-imposed limitations on their authority.

Why is this important

This bill directly challenges the constitutional principle of federal supremacy and could create significant jurisdictional conflicts between state and federal law enforcement. If enacted, it would potentially obstruct federal investigations, prosecutions, and law enforcement operations—ranging from FBI investigations to DEA drug enforcement—raising serious questions about state vs. federal authority and the enforceability of federal law within Texas.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional conflict: Federal law enforcement derives authority from the U.S. Constitution and federal statute, not state licensure. Courts have consistently held that states cannot impose licensing requirements on federal officials exercising federal authority.
  • Practical enforcement challenges: Creating criminal liability for federal agents performing their duties could lead to federal-state standoffs and make it unclear which laws would prevail in actual enforcement situations.
  • Scope ambiguity: The bill's definitions of "federal agents" and "federal warrants" are not detailed in this summary, but such vagueness could create unintended consequences or selective enforcement issues.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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