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Bill

SB 135

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

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Bob Hall

SB 135 creates a new Texas Division of Homeland Security with defined powers and operations to coordinate state emergency management and security functions.

Referred to Border Security
#aliens(i0032) #border(s0045) #criminalprocedure--general(i0208) #lawenforcement(i0510) #publicsafety #departmentof(v0251) #stateagencies #boards&commissions--newlyproposed(i0773) #texashomelandsecuritydivisionofthedept.ofpublicsafety(vv63h)
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Bill Summary · SB 135

Legislative bill overview

SB 135 would establish a new Texas Division of Homeland Security with defined creation, operational structure, and governmental powers. The bill, sponsored by Senator Bob Hall, was filed in November 2024 and recently referred to the Border Security committee after its first reading in February 2025.

Why is this important

Creating a dedicated state-level homeland security division could centralize emergency management, border security coordination, and disaster response functions under unified leadership. This represents a significant structural change to how Texas organizes critical infrastructure protection and emergency services, potentially affecting funding allocation, interagency coordination, and state-federal cooperation.

Potential points of contention

  • Jurisdictional overlap: Potential duplication or conflicts with existing agencies like the Texas Division of Emergency Management, Texas Department of Public Safety, and federal DHS coordination
  • Funding and fiscal impact: The cost of establishing and operating a new division amid budget constraints, and whether resources would be reallocated from existing agencies
  • Scope of powers: Uncertainty around what specific authorities and enforcement powers this division would hold, and whether they might exceed appropriate state-level jurisdiction or infringe on local government authority

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

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