Texas House Bill HB4349

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the duties of a constable and deputy constable; authorizing certification.

Impact

The implementation of HB 4349 is expected to standardize the criteria and training required for constables and deputy constables across the state. By formalizing certification, the bill serves to ensure that these law enforcement officers are equipped with the necessary skills to carry out their duties effectively, including duties related to traffic enforcement and public safety on highways and at ports of entry. This legislative change could lead to improved enforcement of traffic regulations and vehicular weight standards, potentially enhancing road safety.

Summary

House Bill 4349 aims to revise and enhance the authority and responsibilities of constables and deputy constables in Texas. Specifically, the bill authorizes a certification process for constables and deputy constables, indicating a shift in law enforcement accreditation and training standards. The legislation amends existing sections of the Transportation Code to include constables as recognized weight enforcement officers, thereby expanding their roles within the transportation sector significantly.

Contention

While the bill has been presented as a necessary modernization of law enforcement practices regarding constables, it may face discussions or concerns regarding the potential implications for local governance. Some may argue that additional certification could bring about increased regulatory oversight of local law enforcement practices. There could be debates on how these changes might affect the autonomy of local constables and whether more stringent certification might inadvertently present more obstacles to their operational capacity.