My name is Selene Rodriguez, and I represent the Texas Public Policy Foundation. Thank you for the opportunity to speak to you today. I am testifying in support of House Bill 3782.
Gov. Abbott and the Texas Legislature have done a great job of working to ensure that Texas can work toward regaining and maintaining operational control of the Texas–Mexico border. The state has provided historic funding to various state agencies to support Operation Lone Star and border security programs. Due to the rapid increase in cartel-related crimes and illegal migration into Texas, the state has had to adapt and learn quickly how to defend itself and its people. We have begun laying the groundwork in Texas to curb continued migrant
surges, human smuggling, and drug trafficking, now that we know the federal government can abandon its duties and force Texas to fend for itself.
Border Security
Cartel and Chinese Drones Demand Immediate FAA Action
The Border Patrol and the military need clear authority to deploy counter-drone systems in sensitive areas without endless FAA vetoes. Drones are increasingly violating American airspace. We know that tens of thousands of drone sightings on our southern border are connected with the Mexican drug and human trafficking cartels. But dozens of other drone sightings at sensitive...
February 20, 2026