Texas House Bill HB1027

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to the authority of a peace officer to stop, detain, or arrest a person for a violation of certain traffic offenses.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would directly influence the way traffic violations are handled by law enforcement agencies across Texas. It clarifies the criteria under which officers can perform stops or arrests without a warrant, centering around the visibility of police vehicles and the uniform of the officer involved. This change is intended to reinforce procedural justice and ensure that citizens are better protected from arbitrary enforcement actions.

Summary

House Bill 1027 aims to modify the authority of peace officers in Texas regarding traffic offenses. The bill specifically addresses the conditions under which a peace officer is permitted to stop, detain, or arrest individuals for violations classified as misdemeanors punishable only by fines. The key amendment dictates that uniformed officers operating marked police vehicles are required to follow certain protocols before intervening in such situations.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 1027 include concerns about the potential for selective enforcement based on the interpretation of what constitutes proper visual identification of police authority. Critics may argue that the stipulations imposed by the bill could lead to inconsistencies in law enforcement practices across different jurisdictions. Advocates, on the other hand, claim these measures are necessary to enhance transparency in police conduct and to safeguard personal liberties against unwarranted detentions.