Representative Lujan Files Bill to Combat Rental Car Theft and Cross-Border Crime

April 30, 2025 – AUSTIN, Texas — For years, a troubling trend has been unfolding across major Texas cities. Stolen vehicles, once considered a localized issue, have become key assets in organized criminal operations, particularly along the southern border. Representative John Lujan (R–San Antonio) has filed legislation to combat this growing threat by addressing a loophole in state law that criminals have exploited to traffic stolen rental vehicles across the border.

The proposed bill targets a pattern law enforcement officials have observed: rental cars are fraudulently obtained, reported stolen, and swiftly transported to Mexico, where recovery becomes nearly impossible. These vehicles are often used in human trafficking, drug smuggling, and other transnational crimes.

“This is not just a property crime issue — it’s a public safety issue that fuels dangerous criminal networks,” said Rep. Lujan. “Our current laws have not kept pace with how organized crime exploits the rental car system. My bill will give law enforcement and prosecutors the tools they need to act swiftly and stop these vehicles from vanishing across the border.”

The legislation will strengthen penalties for fraudulent vehicle rentals, require faster reporting standards from rental companies, and create a cross-agency task force to track and recover stolen rentals.

“Texans deserve to know their communities and borders are being protected,” Lujan added. “This bill is a step toward closing gaps in our law and keeping our state safe.”

The bill will be heard in committee later this session.