Texas House Bill HB888

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 11/12/24

Caption

Relating to the duty of a peace officer to request and render aid for an injured person.

Impact

The enactment of HB 888 is set to significantly amend the Code of Criminal Procedure and the Occupations Code in Texas. By instituting an explicit duty for peace officers to not only assist but also to potentially intervene in the actions of other officers, the bill aims to enhance accountability within law enforcement. This legislative move responds to broader concerns regarding police conduct, especially in situations where the use of excessive force has been in public scrutiny. It also lays out specific training requirements that aim to promote safer policing practices.

Summary

House Bill 888 focuses on enhancing the responsibilities of peace officers regarding the provision of aid to injured persons. Specifically, it mandates that peace officers have a duty to request emergency medical services and provide first aid when encountering an injured individual, as long as doing so does not expose them or others to a risk of serious injury. The bill amends existing laws to ensure that training for peace officers includes protocols for intervening to prevent excessive use of force by fellow officers and the prohibition of certain holds, such as choke holds, unless absolutely necessary to protect life.

Contention

While HB 888 is expected to bolster public safety and improve the response of law enforcement in medical emergencies, it is not without its critics. Some stakeholders may view the requirements for intervention and the prohibition of certain holds as operationally challenging or potentially dangerous in high-stress situations. There is a concern among certain law enforcement groups about the implications of such duties leading to hesitation in critical scenarios, potentially jeopardizing not only officer safety but the safety of the general public as well. Thus, there are ongoing discussions on how to balance the intended benefits of the bill with the practical realities faced by peace officers on the ground.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Code Of Criminal Procedure

• Chapter 2. General Duties Of Officers
  • Section: New Section

Occupations Code

• Chapter 1701. Law Enforcement Officers
  • Section: 2551
  • Section: 269