Bill > HB2242

This bill amends the Local Government Code to clarify the policy-making authority of constables in the context of federal civil rights lawsuits. Specifically, the legislation establishes that for the purpose of civil rights actions brought under 42 U.S.C. Section 1983 (a federal law that allows individuals to sue government officials for civil rights violations), a constable is considered a final policy maker on law enforcement decisions within their county. This means that in legal proceedings, the constable would be viewed as having ultimate decision-making authority for law enforcement matters in their jurisdiction. The bill's provisions will only apply to civil rights causes of action that arise on or after September 1, 2025, which is also the date the act takes effect. By defining a constable's role as a final policy maker, the bill potentially impacts how civil rights lawsuits against constables might be interpreted and adjudicated in the future.

Justice

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2242