Texas House Bill HB3334

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 5/8/09

Caption

Relating to the cost of replacing a law enforcement officer during training on enforcement of immigration laws.

Impact

The implementation of HB3334 could significantly affect the fiscal management of local government resources. By providing state funds to cover the replacement costs, the bill aims to alleviate financial burdens on municipalities, thereby allowing for a smoother transition and continued law enforcement operations during training periods. This financial assistance could potentially enhance the capacity of local agencies to enforce immigration laws more effectively with well-trained personnel, ensuring that local law enforcement is aligned with federal standards.

Summary

House Bill 3334 proposes to allocate funds for the replacement of a law enforcement officer during their training by the federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency (ICE) on the enforcement of federal immigration law. By amending Section 772.006(a) of the Government Code, the bill outlines the governor's responsibility to administer funds that would cover the costs incurred by local governments in hiring temporary officers to replace those undergoing ICE training. This act seeks to ensure that local police departments can maintain staffing levels while their officers receive essential training in immigration enforcement.

Contention

While proponents argue that the bill strengthens local ability to enforce immigration regulations, there are concerns regarding the implications of equipping local law enforcement with additional immigration enforcement authority. Critics view this as a potential escalation of local police involvement in immigration matters, which could affect community relations, especially among immigrant populations. The debate centers on whether the allocation of state funds for this purpose fortifies public safety or risks marginalizing vulnerable communities.