Texas House Bill HB1828

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 1/13/25
• Out of House Committee: 4/29/25
• Voted on by House: 5/6/25
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/23/25
• Voted on by Senate: 5/25/25
• Governor Action: 6/20/25

Caption

Relating to legislative leave for correctional officers employed by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1828 would amend Chapter 493 of the Government Code by introducing provisions that regulate the donation and use of accrued leave by correctional officers. It establishes a framework for contribution to a legislative leave pool and sets limits on how much leave can be withdrawn. This could potentially impact the workforce of correctional officers by promoting their engagement in legislative advocacy, thus allowing them to express their concerns and perspectives at the state level without the fear of losing their accrued benefits.

Summary

House Bill 1828 is focused on providing legislative leave options for correctional officers employed by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. The bill allows these officers to voluntarily transfer up to eight hours of their accrued compensatory time or annual leave into a legislative leave pool each year. This initiative aims to facilitate the involvement of correctional officers in legislative processes while maintaining their earned time benefits. The establishment of a legislative leave pool under this bill would create a structured system for correctional officers to withdraw time for legislative purposes in coordination with their respective associations.

Sentiment

Discussions surrounding HB 1828 indicate a positive sentiment among supporters, who view the initiative as a means of empowering correctional officers. They believe that providing such leave enhances the representation of correctional professionals in legislative matters and promotes their interests effectively. However, there may be concerns regarding the administration and management of the leave pool, particularly about its fairness and efficiency in serving correctional officers in different areas of the state.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from the mechanics of the proposed legislative leave pool, such as the rules governing contributions and withdrawals, which will require careful structuring to avoid potential grievances among officers. Additionally, there may be debates around the adequacy of the hours allowed for donation and the overall benefits realized by the officers and their associations. As the bill progresses, further discussions and clarifications are likely necessary to address these aspects comprehensively.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

• Chapter 493. Texas Department Of Criminal Justice: Organization
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