Texas House Bill HB72

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

• Filed: 11/10/14

Caption

Relating to a prohibition on the sale or transfer of certain law enforcement vehicles before removal of certain equipment and insignia.

Impact

The primary intent behind HB72 is to prevent potential public safety issues that could arise from the sale of former law enforcement vehicles. By ensuring that these vehicles are properly decommissioned before they are sold to the public, the bill aims to reduce confusion and potential misuse of such vehicles, thereby enhancing community safety. The change is expected to have implications on municipal and county procedures for disposing of retired police vehicles and underscores the importance of clarity in identifying active law enforcement assets.

Summary

House Bill 72 addresses the sale or transfer of law enforcement vehicles by municipalities and counties in Texas. Specifically, it prohibits the sale or transfer of marked patrol cars and other law enforcement vehicles to the public unless all equipment and insignia that could mislead the public into believing the vehicle is still an active law enforcement vehicle are removed. This includes the removal of items such as police lights, sirens, antennas, emblems, and other emergency vehicle equipment.

Contention

While the bill appears straightforward in its procedural aim, it may generate discussions concerning the financial implications for municipalities and counties. Critics could argue that additional costs associated with properly decommissioning vehicles, including the removal of equipment, may present budgetary challenges. Conversely, supporters of the bill emphasize the necessity of maintaining public safety and preventing potential impersonation of law enforcement officers by unauthorized individuals using these vehicles.