Texas House Bill HB2896

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of House Committee: 5/9/11
• Introduced: 3/10/11
• Refer: 3/17/11
• Report Pass: 5/3/11

Caption

Relating to duties of law enforcement involving damaged fences.

Impact

The bill mandates that law enforcement must immediately identify the owner of the land where the damaged fence is located, and, if the owner has registered with the local political subdivision, notify them of the damage's nature and extent. Furthermore, officers must remain on the scene until either the fence is secured or the landowner arrives. This legislation is significant as it emphasizes the importance of property rights and the responsibility of law enforcement in ensuring that livestock is not left uncontained due to damaged fences.

Summary

House Bill 2896 pertains to the duties of law enforcement officials when responding to incidents involving damaged fences, especially those intended to contain livestock or other animals. The bill amends the Local Government Code to provide clear directives for peace officers on how to handle such situations. Specifically, if a peace officer investigates an incident where a motor vehicle has damaged a fence, they are required to take certain actions aimed at protecting the interests of the property owner and the animals involved.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding HB2896 revolves around the potential implications for law enforcement workload and community interactions. Critics may argue that this added responsibility could burden officers who are often already stretched thin. Proponents, however, view this measure as a necessary step to protect both property owners and animals, fostering a sense of responsibility and care within the community. Furthermore, the bill reflects broader discussions about the responsibilities of law enforcement in relation to local governance and property maintenance.