On May 15, 2025, the Texas Senate Committee on Border Security convened to discuss pressing issues related to border safety, particularly the growing threat posed by unauthorized drones. The meeting highlighted House Concurrent Resolution Number 98, introduced by Representatives Plessa, Lopez Aber, Morales O'Marek, and Laubberbach. This resolution urges Congress to enhance the deployment of counter unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS) technologies aimed at detecting, tracking, identifying, and neutralizing unauthorized drones operating along the Texas-Mexico border.

The resolution emphasizes the need for increased cooperation among federal, state, and local agencies to effectively combat the risks associated with these unmanned aerial systems. As the largest border state, Texas faces unique challenges in safeguarding its communities and the nation from the potential dangers posed by drones. These devices have been reported to locate and track federal border agents, exploit vulnerabilities in border security, and facilitate the smuggling of illegal items into the state.

The Rio Grande Valley sector alone has seen alarming statistics, with over 1,000 incursions into U.S. airspace each month and approximately 25,000 drone sightings reported in 2023. The committee underscored the necessity for established standard operating procedures to detect and neutralize these drones, advocating for a modernized approach to border security that goes beyond physical barriers.

The discussions also touched on the broader implications of drone technology, drawing parallels to their use in global conflicts, such as the ongoing war in Ukraine. The committee members noted that similar tactics are being employed by cartels and other malicious actors to penetrate U.S. borders, highlighting the urgent need for advanced technological solutions to address these evolving threats.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the critical role of technology in national security and the importance of legislative support to enhance border protection measures. As Texas continues to grapple with the challenges of unauthorized drone activity, the resolution aims to pave the way for a more secure and coordinated response to these modern threats.