Texas Senate Bill SB552

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/8/09
• Voted on by Senate: 5/1/09

Caption

Relating to funding for the continuing education of certain peace officers.

Impact

The changes introduced by SB552 will significantly impact state law by formalizing the financial support mechanism for the education of peace officers. The bill ensures that local law enforcement agencies are adequately funded, thus promoting enhanced training and adherence to best practices within the police force. By establishing clear criteria for financial allocations, this legislation could lead to improved law enforcement standards state-wide, which in turn may bolster public safety.

Summary

SB552 addresses the funding for the continuing education of peace officers in Texas. It amends existing law to establish a more structured allocation of funds from the general revenue fund to support law enforcement agencies. Specifically, it allocates 20% of the funds equally among eligible local law enforcement agencies, while the remaining 80% is distributed based on a fixed amount per position within those agencies. This approach aims to ensure that peace officers receive the necessary training and education to perform their duties effectively.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB552 include concerns about the adequacy of funding levels and the accountability mechanisms for how law enforcement agencies utilize these funds. Critics may argue that while the intent of improving officer education is commendable, it is essential to ensure that the funding translates to effective training programs that truly benefit the communities served. Furthermore, discussions may also arise regarding which agencies qualify for funding and the potential disparities in resource allocation across different jurisdictions.