Texas Senate Bill SB1378

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 3/9/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 4/18/11
• Voted on by Senate: 4/20/11
• Refer: 3/22/11
• Out of House Committee: 5/5/11
• Report Pass: 4/18/11
• Voted on by House: 5/19/11
• Engrossed: 4/20/11
• Governor Action: 6/17/11
• Refer: 4/26/11
• Report Pass: 5/3/11
• Enrolled: 5/20/11
• Passed: 6/17/11

Caption

Relating to the authority of the Alabama-Coushatta Indian Tribe to commission peace officers.

Impact

The introduction of SB1378 is significant as it recognizes the autonomy of the Alabama-Coushatta Indian Tribe in law enforcement matters. By allowing the tribe to create its own police force, the bill addresses issues of jurisdiction and law enforcement efficacy on tribal lands. Furthermore, it enhances the safety and integrity of the reservation by ensuring that violations of state law can be addressed promptly by locally commissioned officers, reflecting an important consideration in tribal-state relations.

Summary

Senate Bill 1378 aims to grant the Alabama-Coushatta Indian Tribe in Texas the authority to commission peace officers. This legislative proposal enables the tribal council to employ officers for enforcing state law within the tribe's reservation. These commissioned officers will have all the powers, privileges, and immunities associated with state peace officers, including the authority to arrest individuals violating state laws and enforce traffic regulations on public roads.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention surrounding this bill relates to the relationship between state authority and tribal sovereignty. Critics may raise concerns about the implications of tribal officers operating under state law, particularly in how such arrangements would affect existing law enforcement structures. Additionally, the bill stipulates that commissioned officers are not entitled to state benefits typically afforded to state peace officers, which could lead to discussions regarding equity and support for tribal law enforcement agencies.