Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1851

Filed
1/15/25  
Out of House Committee
4/15/25  
Voted on by House
4/25/25  
Out of Senate Committee
5/22/25  
Voted on by Senate
5/25/25  
Governor Action
6/20/25  

Caption

Relating to the disposition of certain surplus motor vehicles and other law enforcement equipment by the Texas Facilities Commission to certain school districts.

Impact

The legislation is anticipated to have significant implications on state laws concerning the management of surplus government property. By facilitating the donation of vehicles and equipment to law enforcement agencies and school districts in need, the bill aims to strengthen public safety initiatives, particularly in areas that may lack adequate resources. The provision ensuring that the surplus can only be used for law enforcement activities underscores a structured approach to govern the use of such donated equipment, thereby aiming to enhance both security and accountability within these agencies.

Summary

House Bill 1851 focuses on the transfer of surplus motor vehicles and other law enforcement equipment from the Texas Facilities Commission to certain school districts, particularly those located in economically disadvantaged areas. The bill allows the commission to donate such surplus property if deemed beneficial for enhancing the state's efforts in securing its international borders and combating transnational crime. The law stipulates that any recipient, whether a municipal or county agency or school district, cannot sell the acquired property for at least two years and must use it solely for law enforcement duties.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1851 appears to be generally positive, as it addresses a tangible need for support in economically disadvantaged areas and seeks to bolster law enforcement capabilities. Stakeholders, including legislators and community advocates, have expressed support for initiatives that provide necessary resources to enhance public safety. However, concerns may arise regarding the management and allocation of the surplus resources, necessitating oversight to ensure that the equipment serves its intended purpose effectively.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for its aims, potential points of contention may emerge related to the equitable distribution of surplus equipment among school districts. There might be discussions around which districts qualify as economically disadvantaged and how the criteria for selection are established. Additionally, ensuring that the equipment is used strictly for law enforcement purposes could lead to scrutiny regarding accountability and oversight in its deployment.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

  • Chapter 2175. Surplus And Salvage Property
    • Section: 308
    • Section: 308
    • Section: 308
    • Section: 308
    • Section: 308
    • Section: 308
    • Section: 308

Education Code

  • Chapter 37. Discipline; Law And Order
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB2093

Relating to preventing racial profiling and to video and audio equipment and recordings of certain law enforcement motor vehicle stops; creating an offense.

TX HB1156

Relating to the disposition of surplus traffic and roadwork safety equipment by the Department of Public Safety and Texas Department of Transportation.

TX HB1302

Relating to inspections and examinations by the Railroad Commission of Texas of certain sites and facilities conducted using unmanned aircraft.

TX HB4372

Relating to the commissioning of peace officers by certain private schools.

TX SB2000

Relating to the commissioning of peace officers by certain parochial schools in certain counties.

TX HB1530

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement.

TX SB252

Relating to the licensing of certain veterans by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement and the hiring of those veterans by political subdivisions.

TX SB1445

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement; authorizing a fee.

TX HB3599

Relating to an exemption from certain motor fuel taxes for, and registration fees for motor vehicles owned by, certain nonprofit food banks.

TX SB684

Relating to the inspection periods for certain motor vehicles; increasing certain fees.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.