Bill > SB36

This bill establishes a new Homeland Security Division within the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) with comprehensive responsibilities for border security, critical infrastructure protection, and statewide homeland security planning. The division will be led by a chief appointed by the department director and will have broad powers to coordinate multi-agency and public-private efforts to enhance law enforcement and homeland security initiatives. Key responsibilities include developing strategic homeland security plans, conducting risk assessments, managing border security intelligence operations, coordinating with federal and state agencies, and protecting critical infrastructure in sectors like energy, communications, transportation, and water systems. The bill also requires the division to maintain a public website, conduct research on new security technologies, provide counsel to state and local governments, and operate programs like an infrastructure liaison officer training program. Additionally, the bill mandates the transfer of existing border security operations centers to the new division and requires the division to collaborate with the governor's homeland security council and advisory committees. The new Homeland Security Division will have significant authority to collect and analyze intelligence, develop operational plans, and support border security and critical infrastructure protection efforts across Texas.

Military Affairs and Security

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB36