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 defines "probation officer" to include various personnel directed by the commissioner of probation and allows them to arrest probationers without a warrant before the final disposition of their case. The bill stipulates that if a probationer is served with a notice of surrender for a felony-related probation, 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. Additionally, if a warrant is issued for a probationer's arrest while they are incarcerated, the relevant authorities must inform the prisoner of their right to seek prompt court disposition.

Furthermore, the bill emphasizes that only a justice or magistrate can issue warrants or make court findings, but it allows probation officers to arrest or issue warrants if they have probable cause to believe a probationer has violated court conditions. The probation officer is responsible for arranging the probationer's appearance in court, and the warrant issued will authorize detention by jail or correctional facility personnel. The bill ensures that any prisoner who applies for a court hearing must be brought before the court within six months for sentencing or other lawful actions.