Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas House Bill HB4481

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

Caption

Relating to the establishment of a fraudulent identification unit to be operated by the Department of Public Safety.

Impact

If passed, HB4481 would amend current regulations related to identification and fraud by formalizing an investigative body within the DPS. This move signifies a proactive approach by the state legislature to address the escalating issue of fraudulent identification, which has implications for law enforcement, security, and public trust. The establishment of this unit would require the allocation of resources and personnel dedicated solely to the fight against identification-related crimes, potentially improving response times and success rates in such investigations.

Summary

House Bill 4481 aims to establish a specialized unit dedicated to investigating fraudulent identification practices within the state of Texas. This bill will create a fraudulent identification unit under the purview of the Department of Public Safety (DPS). The primary focus of this unit will be to investigate and make arrests related to the production, sale, or distribution of fraudulent documents that misrepresent a person's identifying information, a growing concern in the realm of identity fraud. This legislative measure seeks to enhance the state's capabilities in combating such criminal activities.

Contention

There may be discussions surrounding the implementation of this bill, particularly regarding its budgetary implications and the effectiveness of creating a separate unit within the DPS. Some stakeholders may question whether existing resources could be better utilized or if there are other pressing law enforcement needs. Furthermore, debates could arise regarding the balance between increasing public safety and the potential risks of overreach in investigations related to residents' personal information.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3539

Relating to the establishment and operation of an ammunition facility by the Department of Public Safety.

TX HB71

Relating to the establishment of a program for the issuance of digital identification.

TX HB1783

Relating to the establishment of a program for the issuance of digital identification.

TX HB849

Relating to automatic voter registration on issuance or change of a driver's license or identification card by the Department of Public Safety.

TX HB1274

Relating to automatic voter registration on issuance or change of a driver's license or identification card by the Department of Public Safety.

TX HB4176

Relating to the summary suspension of a nursing license in connection with a fraudulently or unlawfully obtained diploma, license, or other document.

TX HB1230

Relating to the creation of a witness protection unit within the Department of Public Safety.

TX SB1483

Relating to the creation of a retail theft investigation unit in the Department of Public Safety.

TX SB2196

Relating to the identification and mapping of aggregate production operations by The University of Texas Bureau of Economic Geology.

TX HB20

Relating to measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the border region of this state, including protection from ongoing criminal activity and public health threats and the establishment of the Border Protection Unit; creating a criminal offense; creating a civil penalty.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.