Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas House Bill HB4516

Caption

Relating to the authority to arrest a person without a warrant.

Impact

The bill's passage signifies a notable shift in law enforcement protocols, specifically regarding the powers granted to non-officer individuals in making arrests. By allowing more individuals the authority to arrest without a warrant, there may be implications for community safety and crime prevention. Proponents argue that this provides necessary flexibility and responsiveness in law enforcement, potentially increasing public safety. However, the amendment could also raise ethical concerns about the appropriateness and application of arrest powers by individuals who may not have formal law enforcement training.

Summary

House Bill 4516 pertains to the authority of individuals, specifically peace officers, to arrest a person without a warrant for certain offenses. The bill amends Article 14.01 of the Code of Criminal Procedure to expand the circumstances under which any individual may execute an arrest, particularly for felonies or offenses against public peace occurring in the presence or view of the arresting individual. The intent of this change is to enhance the ability of law enforcement and citizens to respond to crimes as they happen.

Contention

One of the main points of contention surrounding HB4516 is the possible consequences of broadening arrest powers to non-law enforcement individuals, which could lead to misuse or overly aggressive enforcement in community settings. Critics may argue that this could create an environment where individuals act on personal biases or misunderstandings of the law when making arrests. The bill emphasizes the necessity for clear training and guidelines to mitigate any potential negative impacts on community relations and the legal rights of individuals subjected to these arrest powers.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3154

Relating to the authority to arrest a person without a warrant.

TX SB571

Relating to interactions between law enforcement and individuals detained or arrested on suspicion of the commission of criminal offenses, witnesses to the commission of those offenses, and other members of the public, to peace officer liability for those interactions, and to the confinement, conviction, or release of detained or arrested individuals.

TX HB2519

Relating to law enforcement misconduct and law enforcement interactions with certain detained or arrested individuals and other members of the public, to public entity liability for those interactions, and to the confinement, conviction, or release of detained or arrested individuals.

TX HB1178

Relating to the authority of a magistrate to issue a search warrant to collect a blood specimen from a person arrested for certain intoxication offenses.

TX HB410

Relating to law enforcement policies regarding the issuance of citations for misdemeanors punishable by fine only and to a limitation on the authority to arrest a person for certain fine-only misdemeanors.

TX HB1131

Relating to the authority of a justice of the peace to issue a search warrant to collect a blood specimen from a person arrested for certain intoxication criminal offenses.

TX HB405

Relating to the appearance of an arrested person before a magistrate and to the retention of certain related records.

TX HB2922

Relating to the suspension of the driver's license of a person arrested for an offense involving the operation of a motor vehicle while intoxicated or under the influence of alcohol.

TX HB938

Relating to the use of force by peace officers and certain other persons to make an arrest or search or prevent an escape from custody.

TX HB1906

Relating to the period for which a person arrested for certain crimes committed against a child may be held after bond is posted.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.