Texas House Bill HB3422

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 3/11/11
• Out of House Committee: 5/11/11
• Voted on by House: 5/15/11
• Refer: 3/18/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/21/11
• Report Pass: 5/10/11
• Voted on by Senate: 5/25/11
• Engrossed: 5/15/11
• Governor Action: 6/17/11
• Refer: 5/16/11
• Report Pass: 5/21/11
• Enrolled: 5/27/11
• Passed: 6/17/11

Caption

Relating to the use of auction proceeds from the sale of abandoned motor vehicles, watercraft, or outboard motors to compensate certain property owners.

Impact

The enactment of HB3422 is expected to amend existing transportation laws in the state. Specifically, it modifies Section 683.015(f) of the Transportation Code, which governs how funds derived from auctioning abandoned vehicles can be applied. This change signifies a legislative shift towards accountability and restitution for damages caused during law enforcement operations, thereby aligning financial responsibility with the actions of the police. By doing so, it enhances the relationship between law enforcement and the community by acknowledging the unintended consequences of police pursuits.

Summary

House Bill 3422 addresses the use of proceeds from the auction of abandoned motor vehicles, watercraft, or outboard motors. The bill allows law enforcement agencies to utilize these funds specifically to compensate property owners whose properties were damaged as a result of pursuits involving the agency. This measure is meant to provide financial relief to those affected by the actions taken during high-speed chases, which often lead to property damage in the course of apprehending suspects.

Contention

While the bill may be seen as a positive step towards compensating those wronged during police activities, there could be potential concerns regarding the extent of compensation and the criteria used to determine eligibility. Questions might arise over how much aid is deemed appropriate and whether the law enforcement agencies would administer these funds fairly. Moreover, some might argue that such provisions could inadvertently encourage reckless pursuits if officers believe they are less liable for collateral damages, creating a larger dialogue about police conduct and community safety.