Bill > SB46

This bill specifically targets counties with a population over 3.3 million (which effectively means Harris County/Houston) and introduces several key provisions related to law enforcement funding and contracting. It empowers sheriffs and constables to independently enter into contracts with local governments, property owners' associations, or landowners to provide law enforcement services in their jurisdictions, without requiring approval from the county commissioners court. The bill also mandates that any money received through these contracts must be credited directly to the sheriff's or constable's office and cannot be transferred to the county's general revenue fund. Additionally, the legislation requires counties to hold a voter election if they propose to reduce law enforcement budgets, reallocate unspent law enforcement funding, or shift funding from specific law enforcement positions to other agencies. If a county implements such budget changes without voter approval, the comptroller can impose penalties, including limiting the county's ability to adopt certain tax rates until the funding issues are resolved or approved by voters. The bill aims to provide more financial autonomy and protection for law enforcement agencies, particularly in large counties, by restricting the commissioners court's ability to interfere with law enforcement funding and contracting.

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=892&Bill=SB46