Texas Lawmakers File Bills Targeting Border Security and ICE

Texas lawmakers began prefiling legislation for the 90th Legislature on November 9, 2026, with a significant focus on immigration and border security. Eddie Morales Jr. filed House Bill 111 to prohibit state and local government agencies from installing border walls or physical barriers on state park property, specifically targeting areas such as Big Bend Ranch State Park. The bill allows for the continued use of sensors, cameras, and patrols, but it directly contrasts with a January 2025 executive order from President Donald Trump to expand border infrastructure.

In a parallel effort to shift border policy, Representative Trey Martinez Fischer filed House Bill 123 to repeal a 2025 law that requires county sheriffs to partner with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement under the 287(g) program. Martinez Fischer also introduced House Bill 257, which would mandate biennial outside audits of Operation Lone Star beginning in 2028.

Additional filings include House Bill 410, introduced by Morales to restrict on-duty law enforcement officers from using facial coverings. The 90th Texas Legislature is scheduled to convene on January 12, 2027. If House Bill 111 passes with a two-thirds majority in both chambers, it would take effect immediately; otherwise, it would begin September 1, 2027.