Bill > HB40

This bill expands the authority of sheriffs and constables in counties with a population of 3.3 million or more to enter into contracts to provide law enforcement services. Specifically, sheriffs and constables can now contract with local residents, businesses, property owners' associations, and land owners to provide law enforcement services in and near the areas owned, leased, or managed by the contracting party. The bill prevents county commissioners courts from prohibiting or restricting these contracts, allowing sheriffs and constables to determine their own contract terms. Additionally, the legislation mandates that any money received from such contracts must be credited directly to the sheriff's or constable's office and cannot be transferred to the county's general revenue fund. The bill also prohibits counties from reducing the office's appropriation by the amount of money received through these contracts, ensuring that the additional revenue is treated as part of the office's annual budget. This legislation aims to provide more financial flexibility and autonomy to law enforcement offices in large counties, potentially enabling them to generate additional resources and provide more targeted law enforcement services.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=892&Bill=HB40