Texas House Bill HB3357

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of House Committee: 5/9/11
• Introduced: 3/11/11
• Refer: 3/18/11
• Report Pass: 5/9/11

Caption

Relating to municipal civilian complaint review boards.

Impact

By implementing Municipal Civilian Complaint Review Boards, HB3357 significantly affects the accountability of police officers in larger municipalities. The boards will comprise five public members appointed by various local authorities, ensuring diverse representation and diminishing any undue influence from law enforcement agencies on the review process. Additionally, the bill outlines specific procedural requirements for investigations, thereby reinforcing the rights of complainants and establishing a clearer pathway for addressing grievances against peace officers.

Summary

House Bill 3357 establishes a framework for Municipal Civilian Complaint Review Boards in municipalities with a population of two million or more. This legislation mandates the creation of boards to investigate allegations of misconduct involving peace officers, which includes excessive use of force or abuse of authority. The bill is designed to promote transparency and accountability within law enforcement agencies by providing a structured process for civilians to voice complaints and have them investigated independently.

Contention

During discussions, some lawmakers expressed concerns that the establishment of such boards might be seen as an additional bureaucratic layer that could complicate the existing oversight mechanisms within law enforcement agencies. Critics argue that the bill could lead to an increased burden on municipal resources. There are fears that it might not effectively address the root causes of police misconduct and may, instead, serve as a way to placate public outcry without enacting more substantive reforms in policing practices.