Bill > HB2951

This bill modifies the rural sheriff's office and constable's office salary assistance grant programs by introducing a new category of employee called a "qualified emergency dispatcher" for both sheriff's and constable's offices. The bill defines these emergency dispatchers as individuals who provide communication support services by responding to emergency assistance requests. Under the new provisions, counties awarded grants can now use the funds to provide a minimum annual salary of $40,000 for qualified emergency dispatchers, in addition to existing salary minimums for sheriffs ($75,000), deputies who make motor vehicle stops ($45,000), and jailers ($40,000). For constable's offices, the bill allows grants to be used to provide a $45,000 minimum salary for qualified constables and a $40,000 minimum salary for qualified emergency dispatchers. Counties must contribute at least 75% of the money required to meet these minimum salary requirements. The changes will apply to grants awarded during county fiscal years beginning on or after the bill's effective date, which will be either immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote in the Texas Legislature or September 1, 2025, if that threshold is not met.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2951