Texas House Bill HB4013

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to the release of a child taken into possession by a law enforcement officer.

Impact

The implications of HB 4013 are significant for the regulation of child welfare in Texas. By requiring law enforcement to verify the background of individuals receiving a child and their eligibility to do so, the bill strives to enhance the safety and protection measures in instances of child custody. This change is particularly relevant for law enforcement agencies and entities involved in child welfare to adhere to a more structured process, possibly leading to improved outcomes for children in vulnerable situations.

Summary

House Bill 4013 addresses the protocols surrounding the release of a child taken into possession by law enforcement. This bill amends the Code of Criminal Procedure to establish specific procedures that officers must follow before releasing a child to authorized individuals or entities. The main goal is to ensure that proper safety measures and verifications are undertaken to safeguard the child's welfare during such transitions.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 4013 appears to be generally supportive, especially among child protection advocates who appreciate the increased safeguards for children's safety. However, there may be concerns about the practical implications of implementing such verification processes, particularly regarding the training and workload of law enforcement officers tasked with these responsibilities.

Contention

Notable points of contention could arise regarding the balance between ensuring child safety and the potential bureaucratic burden placed on law enforcement. Critics might argue that additional procedures could slow down the process of reunification or placement of children, thus preventing timely decisions in critical situations. Ensuring that checks against the National Crime Information Center and other databases are thorough while also being efficient could be a key area of ongoing discussion as the bill is implemented.