Texas House Bill HB2277

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to the disposition of certain surplus property by the Department of Public Safety.

Impact

The enactment of HB 2277 is expected to streamline the process by which surplus property is allocated to law enforcement agencies. Local departments may gain access to much-needed resources such as vehicles, radios, and personal protective gear, which could address budget constraints many agencies face. The provision for these items to be sold 'as-is' indicates that while local agencies can benefit from reduced prices, they must also be prepared to manage the associated risks of acquiring used equipment with no warranties. The DPS retains revenue from these sales, which can only be appropriated for its operational purposes.

Summary

House Bill 2277 focuses on the disposition of surplus property owned by the Department of Public Safety (DPS) in Texas. The bill allows the DPS to donate or sell surplus law enforcement motor vehicles and other equipment directly to local law enforcement agencies at discounted rates. This legislation aims to support the mission of the DPS by facilitating the transfer of surplus items that may benefit local police departments, potentially helping them to enhance their operational capabilities without incurring significant costs.

Contention

While the bill has clear benefits for local law enforcement, some concerns may arise regarding the quality and reliability of surplus equipment. Opponents might argue that selling items without warranties could lead to issues if the equipment fails or does not meet the needs of local agencies upon purchase. Moreover, the lack of stringent oversight on how these resources are allocated could raise questions about fairness or favoritism in distribution among various agencies. Nonetheless, supporters assert that the potential for enhanced equipment access for local agencies justifies these measures, promoting public safety across communities.