Relating to a border crime property damage compensation program.

HB 246 creates a compensation program for landowners and residents in Texas border regions who suffer property damage from specific criminal activities. The program, administered by the Attorney General, reimburses agricultural landowners, lessees, and border residents for damage to crops, livestock, buildings, or personal property caused by: (1) criminal trespassers committing border-related offenses (e.g., under Penal Code Chapter 28), or (2) law enforcement responses to such trespassers. Funding comes from state appropriations, dedicated revenue, grants, and federal reimbursements. The bill defines "border crime" as offenses involving transnational criminal activity near the border and specifies eligibility requirements for claims.