Rep. Tony Gonzales Proposes Homeland Threat Response Act to Bolster Border Patrol Protections
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Representative Tony Gonzales, a Republican from Texas, introduced the Homeland Threat Response Act on February 6, 2026, seeking to expand legal protections for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers who assist state and local law enforcement agencies during critical incidents. The bill proposes amendments to the Homeland Security Act of 2002, authorizing CBP personnel to be deployed in investigations of violent acts, shootings, mass killings, and other significant events, thereby strengthening their role beyond traditional immigration enforcement duties.
Gonzales highlighted the vital contributions of elite units within the Border Patrol’s Special Operations Group, including BORTAC (Border Patrol Tactical Unit) and BORSTAR (Border Patrol Search, Trauma, and Rescue). These specialized teams are frequently called upon to support local authorities in emergencies that extend beyond border security, such as tactical responses and search-and-rescue operations.
“Our Border Patrol agents are often on the front lines during violent incidents and major national events, providing critical assistance to local law enforcement,” Gonzales said. “The Homeland Threat Response Act will ensure these officers have the legal protections they need to perform their duties without hesitation or fear of legal repercussions.”
The legislation arrives amid ongoing debates about the scope of federal law enforcement’s involvement in local matters, especially in regions grappling with violent crime and public safety challenges. By codifying CBP’s authority to assist in such situations, the bill aims to clarify jurisdictional boundaries and enhance interagency cooperation.
Data from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection underscores the increasing frequency with which Border Patrol agents support local law enforcement, particularly in border states where violent incidents sometimes overlap with immigration-related concerns. The bill’s proponents argue that formalizing these protections will improve operational effectiveness and officer safety.
Experts note that the Homeland Threat Response Act could also facilitate rapid federal support during mass casualty events, which often require extensive coordination among multiple agencies. The Department of Homeland Security, under which CBP operates, has emphasized the importance of such partnerships in its strategic planning.
While the bill has garnered support from some law enforcement organizations, it may face scrutiny from civil liberties advocates concerned about federal overreach. The American Civil Liberties Union and other groups have historically cautioned against expanding federal law enforcement powers without clear oversight.
Nevertheless, Gonzales’s initiative reflects a broader legislative trend aimed at reinforcing border security and public safety through enhanced federal-state collaboration. As the bill moves through Congress, stakeholders will closely monitor its implications for both law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve.
For more information about CBP’s role and operations, visit the official CBP website.
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