Texas Senate Bill SB1811

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to continuing education training on civil process for constables.

Impact

If enacted, SB1811 will amend the Occupations Code by requiring each constable to complete at least 40 hours of continuing education every four years. Among these, at least 20 hours will specifically pertain to civil process. The legislation aims to standardize training across the state and could potentially improve the consistency of law enforcement practices among constables. Moreover, the bill provides that the coursework must be developed by a public institution of higher education, ensuring quality and relevance in the curriculum prepared.

Summary

Senate Bill 1811 focuses on mandating continuing education training specifically for constables in Texas, emphasizing instruction on civil process. The bill's intent is to formalize training standards to ensure that constables are adequately prepared for their duties in law enforcement management and handling civil procedures. This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the importance of ongoing professional development in the field of law enforcement, aiming to enhance the competency and efficiency of constables across the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB1811 appears to be generally positive among supporters who argue that such requirements will bolster the skill set of constables and enhance public trust in law enforcement agencies. Advocates see the bill as a proactive measure that upholds accountability and ensures that constables are well-informed about current laws and procedures. However, there may be some concerns regarding the practicality of implementing the mandated continuing education, including potential costs and scheduling conflicts for constables who maintain full-time employment.

Contention

While the bill is intended to improve training standards, critics may raise concerns regarding the feasibility of the education requirements. Some may argue that mandatory education could impose additional burdens on constables, particularly in rural areas where access to training resources may be limited. Furthermore, discussions may revolve around the commission’s authority to grant waivers based on hardship, questioning how effectively these exceptions might be managed. Ultimately, the debate surrounding SB1811 might reflect broader discussions about the balance between enhancing training standards and ensuring feasible implementation.