By Julie Tomascik
Editor

A new resource is available for landowners along the Texas-Mexico border who have questions about laws, liability and jurisdiction.

The recently released Texas Landowner Border Law Handbook was created by AgriLife Extension, in partnership with Austin attorney Jim Bradberry, to answer landowner questions as the border crisis continues to escalate.

It provides guidance on a variety of topics, including property damage, trespassing and reporting criminal activity.

“Our goal is to share practical information for landowners who are dealing with these issues along the Texas-Mexico border,” said Tiffany Dowell Lashmet, professor and Extension specialist in agricultural law with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension who co-authored the handbook.

Texas counties along the southern border are significantly impacted by the illegal crossings.

Legal considerations, including steps to take if landowners encounter unauthorized individuals on their property, are covered in the handbook.

Fiscal year 2023 set a record number of 2.5 million encounters at the border, and so far in fiscal year 2024, there has been a 9% increase, according to data from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection. That trend is expected to continue.

“While this book does not profess to hold all the answers, it provides an overview of relevant statutory and case law concerning the issues facing Texas landowners along the border, as well as provides additional resources for landowners,” the authors wrote.

The handbook also includes contact information for law enforcement agencies and other relevant organizations.

“One of the biggest challenges concerning border law is understanding which law enforcement agency has jurisdiction,” the authors said. “For Texas landowners dealing with persistent trespass on their properties, knowing who to call is essential.”

A section details frequently asked questions and best practices to provide additional information to landowners.

The handbook, which is available online, will be updated periodically.

“Because the Texas Legislature meets every other year, oftentimes that’s the best time to update because if there are any changes to statutes, that’s a good time to catch those,” Lashmet said.

Download a free copy of the handbook here.

Printed copies are available by contacting Lashmet’s office at 806-677-5600.