Texas Republican Proposes Bulletproof Vehicles for ICE Agents

Rep. Tony Gonzales wants to use federal funds to upgrade ICE vehicles with bulletproof windows amid rising threats.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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A Republican lawmaker from Texas has proposed new legislation that would allow federal funds to be used to upgrade Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) vehicles with bulletproof windows. Representative Tony Gonzales cited an increase in threats and attacks targeting ICE agents as the reason for the Bulletproof Law Enforcement Vehicles Act.

Why it matters

The proposal comes amid competing narratives surrounding ICE enforcement. Supporters point to growing dangers faced by agents in the field, while critics have questioned the agency's tactics and enforcement priorities, accusing ICE of deploying heavy-handed enforcement methods and alleging misconduct.

The details

The bill would expand existing Department of Homeland Security authorities to allow funding already allocated to federal task forces to be redirected toward vehicle security upgrades, including bulletproof glass, in areas where agencies determine there is an elevated risk, without creating a new funding stream. The bill has been endorsed by several law enforcement groups.

  • The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on February 10, 2026.

The players

Tony Gonzales

A Republican lawmaker from Texas who represents the state's 23rd Congressional District and introduced the Bulletproof Law Enforcement Vehicles Act.

Bert Eyler

The president of the Police Officers' Defense Coalition, which endorsed the Bulletproof Law Enforcement Vehicles Act.

Department of Homeland Security

The federal agency that would oversee the funding and implementation of the vehicle security upgrades under the proposed legislation.

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What they’re saying

“Recent reports show a major uptick in attacks on our law enforcement, especially ICE agents, and their assets. My bill, the Bulletproof Law Enforcement Vehicles Act, authorizes the use of federal funding allocated for task forces to go toward providing law enforcement with vehicle security enhancements, including bulletproof windows.”

— Tony Gonzales, U.S. Representative (Press release)

“Law enforcement officers are being targeted in and around their patrol vehicles at an alarming rate. The Bulletproof Law Enforcement Vehicle Act is a practical, commonsense step that allows existing Homeland Security resources to be used where they are needed most—protecting officers' lives. Congressman Tony Gonzales understands the real risks officers face, especially in border and high-threat regions, and this bill sends a clear message that officer safety and retention matter.”

— Bert Eyler, President, Police Officers' Defense Coalition (Press release)

What’s next

The legislation has been introduced in the House of Representatives and would need to advance through both chambers of Congress before it can become law.

The takeaway

This proposal highlights the ongoing debate over ICE's enforcement tactics and the safety concerns of its agents, with supporters arguing for increased protection and critics questioning the agency's methods. The outcome of this bill could have significant implications for the future of ICE operations and the broader immigration enforcement landscape.