Texas House Bill HB2006

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/27/11
• Introduced: 3/1/11
• Voted on by House: 5/12/11
• Refer: 3/8/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/19/11
• Report Pass: 4/6/11
• Voted on by Senate: 5/24/11
• Engrossed: 5/12/11
• Governor Action: 6/17/11
• Refer: 5/13/11
• Enrolled: 5/24/11
• Passed: 6/17/11

Caption

Relating to the release of a photograph of a police officer and access to records maintained by internal investigative divisions in certain municipalities.

Impact

The introduction of HB2006 modifies the Local Government Code, specifically Subchapter F, by adding provisions that restrict the dissemination of police officer photographs to maintain confidentiality until formal charges are made. Additionally, the bill mandates expunging disciplinary records that are overturned on appeal, which affects the personal records of firefighters and police officers. This change signifies a notable shift towards protecting officers’ reputations post disciplinary action, which could impact transparency in police conduct investigations.

Summary

House Bill 2006 addresses the release of photographs of police officers and the accessibility of records maintained by internal investigative divisions within specific municipalities in Texas. The bill stipulates that a municipality, department, or commission cannot release a photograph of an officer unless certain conditions are met. These conditions include instances where the officer has been charged with an offense, is involved in a civil service hearing, if the photograph serves as evidence in a judicial proceeding, or if the officer consents to its release. This structure aims to protect the privacy of officers, particularly in the wake of civil or criminal allegations.

Contention

Key points of contention surrounding HB2006 revolved around concerns of accountability and transparency in policing. Supporters of the bill argue that this measure is necessary to preserve the dignity and privacy of officers who have been wrongfully accused or whose actions are under review but not yet substantively adjudicated. However, critics contend that this could hinder public access to information regarding police conduct and undermine accountability in cases of misconduct. Thus, while the bill aims to guard against the undue release of potentially damaging information, it raises pertinent debates about transparency in law enforcement oversight.