Texas House Bill HB1808

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to the use of and training for incident-based reporting of information and statistics concerning criminal offenses committed in this state.

Impact

As a result of HB1808, the Texas Government Code will see amendments that require the Department of Public Safety to both enhance the technology used for crime reporting and offer training to local law enforcement agencies. This shift from summary to incident-based reporting will allow for a more detailed analysis of crime data, which could lead to more informed law enforcement practices and policy decisions. The bill also stipulates that the department will create a plan for the expansion of this reporting system, addressing the resource needs and training requirements necessary to effectively implement this change.

Summary

House Bill 1808 is aimed at improving the processes surrounding the reporting and statistics of criminal offenses in Texas. This bill mandates the Department of Public Safety to develop and implement an incident-based crime statistics reporting system for both state and local law enforcement agencies. The goal is to enhance transparency and accuracy in crime reporting, providing more relevant data for law enforcement and the public. The bill emphasizes the need for a structured approach to adopting this new reporting system, which involves updating existing statutes to facilitate better recording of incidents beyond the traditional summary reporting methods.

Contention

There are notable aspects of contention surrounding HB1808, particularly concerning the funding mechanism for the training grants provided to local law enforcement agencies. Questions have arisen about the allocation of state funds and the implementation timelines for the incident-based reporting systems. While some stakeholders believe that the changes offered by this bill will lead to improved crime data and enhanced policing strategies, others express concern about the potential logistical challenges and financial burden that could arise for smaller law enforcement agencies in adopting these new systems.