Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas House Bill HB4091

Caption

Relating to reporting requirements for and the availability of information regarding certain uses of force, injuries, or deaths caused by peace officers.

Impact

The bill significantly alters the legal landscape related to peace officer conduct in Texas by categorizing officer-involved injuries or deaths specific to use of force incidents. By enforcing more rigorous data collection and reporting standards, the legislation increases the accountability of peace officers and aims to protect civil rights. The inclusion of specific demographic information on both officers and individuals involved aims to make the data publicly accessible, subsequently holding law enforcement agencies more responsible for their actions and decision-making processes. Furthermore, the requirement of timely reporting aligns with broader movements advocating for police reform across the country.

Summary

House Bill 4091 seeks to enhance accountability concerning law enforcement actions by instituting new reporting requirements on uses of force by peace officers. The bill amends the Code of Criminal Procedure to refine definitions and mandates the recording and reporting of incidents where force is used, resulting in injuries or deaths. It aims at ensuring transparency in instances where law enforcement officers discharge their weapons and the circumstances surrounding these events. With this, law enforcement agencies are compelled to maintain detailed records of such actions, culminating in a more structured and systemic approach to monitoring policing practices.

Contention

Debates surrounding HB 4091 center on the implications of mandated transparency versus privacy concerns for both officers and civilians involved. Proponents argue the necessity of increasing public trust through enhanced accountability, believing this act will foster greater scrutiny of police actions and potentially minimize instances of misuse of force. However, critics caution against the possibility of excessive stress on law enforcement officers, asserting that the increased public exposure may impact their operational effectiveness. Balancing the need for accountability with the rights and wellbeing of officers remains a contentious issue among lawmakers and advocacy groups.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4875

Relating to a law enforcement agency policy regarding drug and alcohol testing of peace officers involved in certain injuries or deaths.

TX HB1751

Relating to the collection and reporting of certain information regarding mental health jail diversion.

TX HB3704

Relating to notification requirements for deaths caused by peace officers.

TX SB2096

Relating to the use of force by peace officers and other officer interactions and duties.

TX HB2395

Relating to the duties of peace officers regarding interactions with victims of sexual assault.

TX HB30

Relating to access to certain law enforcement, corrections, and prosecutorial records under the public information law.

TX SB806

Relating to the duties of peace officers regarding interactions with victims of sexual assault.

TX SB218

Relating to the grounds for disciplinary action against peace officers and the use of body worn cameras by peace officers.

TX HB415

Relating to the duty of a peace officer to request and render aid for an injured person.

TX HB3867

Relating to requirements regarding certain behavior management for a student enrolled in a special education program of a public school and related reporting requirements regarding the use of restraint.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.