Texas Senate Bill SB219

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to certain fees of and costs incurred by sheriffs and constables.

Impact

The implications of SB 219 extend to the financial operations of local law enforcement agencies. By clarifying and formalizing the fee structures under which sheriffs and constables operate, the bill seeks to streamline the revenue processes for county treasurers. It ensures that the fees collected are deposited into the county general fund, which could influence the allocation of resources for various public safety initiatives. This legislative change emphasizes the importance of maintaining a baseline fee without necessitating frequent adjustments, potentially making budgeting more predictable for local governments.

Summary

Senate Bill 219 relates to the fees and costs that sheriffs and constables may charge for their services. The bill amends several sections of the Local Government Code, specifically addressing how fees are set and collected by these law enforcement officers. Among the key amendments, it establishes guidelines for the situation where county commissioners do not set specific fees, allowing for the continuation of fees as they were the previous fiscal year. This provision aims to maintain some level of consistency in the fee structure for law enforcement services provided by sheriffs and constables across Texas.

Contention

While the bill appears to have a straightforward intent related to fees, there may be concerns regarding the adequacy of these fees in covering the costs incurred for services rendered. If the fees are set too low due to historical precedents or insufficient adjustments by the commissioners court, it could lead to funding shortages for the operations of these law enforcement offices. Stakeholders may debate the appropriate level of fees and the extent of authority local governments should have in setting or adjusting these fees. Overall, the bill touches on the balance between maintaining consistent funding for law enforcement while considering the efficiency of local government operations.