Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas House Bill HB2441

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to required training on trauma-impacted veterans for certain peace officers.

Impact

If enacted, HB2441 will have significant implications for training requirements within law enforcement agencies. By stipulating that peace officers receive enhanced education on mental health and trauma awareness, particularly as it pertains to veterans, the bill seeks to improve outcomes in police-community interactions. It also aims to reduce the frequency of conflict during encounters with individuals who may be experiencing mental health crises, thereby possibly leading to less reliance on force. The expectation is that informed officers will facilitate better access to community resources for veterans in need of assistance.

Summary

House Bill 2441 aims to mandate training specifically focused on trauma-impacted veterans for peace officers across Texas. The bill modifies Section 1701.352 of the Occupations Code, requiring that every state, county, special district, or municipal agency employing peace officers provide this training at least once every four years. This training is designed to enhance officers' understanding and interaction capabilities with veterans who may possess trauma-related issues. The implementation of these educational requirements emphasizes the importance of incorporating awareness of civil rights, cultural diversity, and effective de-escalation techniques into peace officer training programs.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB2441 is generally supportive, particularly among veterans' advocacy groups and mental health organizations, who view the bill as a progressive step toward better law enforcement practices. Supporters argue that training peace officers to recognize and respond appropriately to trauma in veterans will foster more empathetic and effective policing. However, there may also be concerns from certain law enforcement circles regarding the additional training burden and whether the provided resources will be adequate to meet the new requirements.

Contention

Notable points of contention concerning HB2441 involve the costs and logistical challenges associated with implementing this mandated training across various law enforcement agencies. Critics may argue that while the intent behind the bill is commendable, the effectiveness of such training largely depends on the quality and availability of training programs. Ensuring uniformity and adherence to the new requirements could also become contentious as agencies with different resources and capacities may struggle to comply adequately.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Occupations Code

  • Chapter 1701. Law Enforcement Officers
    • Section: 352

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1442

Relating to required training on trauma-impacted veterans for certain peace officers.

TX HB312

Relating to training for peace officers regarding implicit bias.

TX HB1338

Relating to training for peace officers and first responders on certain persons affected by trauma.

TX SB586

Relating to the training of peace officers for family violence and sexual assault assignments.

TX HB282

Relating to the training of peace officers on cases involving child abuse and neglect, family violence, and sexual assault.

TX SB1380

Relating to training for peace officers on acquired and traumatic brain injuries and trauma-affected veterans.

TX SB421

Relating to training for peace officers on acquired and traumatic brain injuries and trauma-affected veterans.

TX HB1643

Relating to continuing education for and regular implicit bias testing of peace officers.

TX HB1262

Relating to education and training for peace officers on interacting with certain persons.

TX SB842

Relating to training on community-based policing for certain persons licensed by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.