The bill, H.B. No. 786, mandates that counties in Texas with a population of 3.3 million or more must enhance security measures in their justice courts. Specifically, it requires the commissioners court of such counties to provide a metal detection device and a law enforcement presence—either a constable, deputy constable, or deputy sheriff—at each public entrance of the justice courts. This initiative aims to improve safety and security for court personnel and the public.
To fund these security measures, the bill stipulates that the commissioners court must first utilize resources from the county's courthouse security fund, as established under Article 102.017 of the Code of Criminal Procedure. If additional funds are necessary, they may then draw from the county's general revenue fund. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on September 1, 2025.
Statutes affected: Introduced: ()