The bill amends Chapter 279 by replacing section 3 to clarify the authority and responsibilities of probation officers regarding the arrest of individuals on probation. It specifies that probation officers, which include various designated personnel, can arrest probationers without a warrant before the final disposition of their cases. Additionally, if a probationer is served with a notice of surrender for a felony-related probation violation, the probation officer must provide a duplicate of this notice to the district attorney, who will have the opportunity to present evidence at the surrender hearing. The court retains the authority to either sentence the probationer or make other lawful dispositions of the case.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the procedures for handling cases where a warrant has been issued for a probationer who is incarcerated. It mandates that correctional authorities notify the prisoner of their right to apply for a prompt court disposition and requires that such applications be forwarded to the court along with relevant information about the prisoner's status. The bill ensures that any prisoner who applies for a court hearing is brought before the court within six months for sentencing or other lawful actions. It also emphasizes that only designated judicial authorities can issue warrants or make court findings, while allowing probation officers to arrest probationers if they have probable cause to believe that probation conditions have been violated.