Texas House Bill HB4419

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 3/11/25

Caption

Relating to peace officers commissioned by the Health and Human Services Commission's office of inspector general.

Impact

The enactment of HB4419 will have implications on the classification and working conditions of peace officers associated with the Health and Human Services Commission. Specifically, it stipulates that the office of inspector general's peace officers are to be classified under Schedule C of the position classification plan, which influences their salary scales and employment conditions.

Summary

House Bill 4419 aims to update and amend the statutes relating to peace officers commissioned by the Health and Human Services Commission's office of inspector general in Texas. The bill includes various provisions such as the definition of peace officers within the Code of Criminal Procedure. It seeks to formally recognize those commissioned by the office of inspector general as peace officers with specific duties and powers akin to traditional law enforcement authorities.

Contention

One point of concern surrounding the bill is the expansion of law enforcement powers to a sector that is primarily focused on health and human services oversight, which some may argue could blur the lines between health service provision and law enforcement. Additionally, the adequacy of oversight concerning how these powers will be exercised has been questioned, particularly in the context of community safety and civil rights.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

• Chapter 1. General Provisions
  • Section: New Section

Occupations Code

• Chapter 1701. Law Enforcement Officers
  • Section: New Section

Human Resources Code

• Chapter 242. Operation Of Secure Facilities
  • Section: New Section