Texas House Bill HB647

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the disciplinary actions that may be taken against police officers in certain municipalities.

Impact

The introduction of HB 647 has significant implications for state law as it reinforces the authority of municipal public employers to administer disciplinary actions for police officers. By establishing a formalized structure for disciplinary procedures, the bill aims to improve accountability within law enforcement agencies. Furthermore, it addresses prior inconsistencies in how different municipalities could handle police officer discipline, potentially leading to improved public trust in law enforcement.

Summary

House Bill 647 focuses on the disciplinary actions applicable to police officers within certain municipalities in Texas. It aims to implement a progressive disciplinary matrix that standardizes the range of disciplinary actions that can be taken against officers based on their conduct. The bill mandates that, if a municipality has not adopted certain existing provisions, they must adopt rules that facilitate the adoption of this disciplinary matrix. This matrix is intended to create a uniform approach for addressing infractions, ensuring that disciplinary actions are consistent and appropriate relative to the nature of the misbehavior and the officer's prior record.

Contention

Several points of contention exist surrounding HB 647. Advocates argue that the establishment of a progressive disciplinary matrix is a positive step towards police accountability, allowing for clear guidelines on appropriate responses to various infractions. However, opponents may express concerns regarding the potential for diminished local control over police operations, arguing that such standardization may not effectively account for specific local conditions and contexts. As municipalities implement this framework, the balance between standardized discipline and local flexibility will likely be a key topic in discussions regarding police reform.