Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB233

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

Caption

Relating to training regarding interactions with law enforcement during traffic stops.

Impact

In addition to updating driver education curricula, SB233 also proposes the establishment of a statewide education and training program for law enforcement officers on proper traffic stop procedures. This means that all officers in Texas will need to complete this program as part of their licensing requirements. The proposed changes aim to enhance the professionalism and preparedness of officers in dealing with traffic-related incidents, ultimately aiming for improved public safety and officer accountability.

Summary

SB233, introduced by Senator Menéndez, is designed to improve interactions between the public and law enforcement during traffic stops through enhanced training and education. The bill mandates that driver education courses in Texas must include information on law enforcement procedures during traffic stops. This includes proper actions to be taken during such encounters and guidelines for appropriate interactions with officers. The objective is to foster a clearer understanding and coordination between drivers and police officers, potentially reducing misunderstandings during traffic stops.

Contention

While SB233 is primarily aimed at promoting better safety and communication during traffic stops, it could meet some resistance. Proponents argue that this bill will help demystify the traffic stop process and make it less intimidating for the public, effectively combating negative stereotypes and fears. However, there could be concerns around the effectiveness of the training and whether it will sufficiently address existing tensions between law enforcement and communities. Critics may also express worries that the implementation of these educational programs could incur costs or require significant administrative efforts, which some believe may not lead to meaningful improvements.

Companion Bills

TX HB1864

Identical Relating to training regarding interactions with law enforcement during traffic stops.

Previously Filed As

TX SB2429

Relating to reporting procedures and training programs for law enforcement agencies regarding missing children and missing persons.

TX HB4975

Relating to reporting procedures and training programs for law enforcement agencies regarding missing children and missing persons.

TX HB2519

Relating to law enforcement misconduct and law enforcement interactions with certain detained or arrested individuals and other members of the public, to public entity liability for those interactions, and to the confinement, conviction, or release of detained or arrested individuals.

TX HB2660

Relating to duties and procedures and to training programs for law enforcement agencies regarding missing children and missing persons.

TX HB568

Relating to education and training for peace officers on interacting with persons with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias.

TX SB443

Relating to education and training for peace officers on interacting with persons with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias.

TX SB1445

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement; authorizing a fee.

TX HB1530

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement.

TX SB571

Relating to interactions between law enforcement and individuals detained or arrested on suspicion of the commission of criminal offenses, witnesses to the commission of those offenses, and other members of the public, to peace officer liability for those interactions, and to the confinement, conviction, or release of detained or arrested individuals.

TX HB2395

Relating to the duties of peace officers regarding interactions with victims of sexual assault.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.