The bill, S.B. No. 428, amends the qualifications for individuals seeking to serve as sheriffs or constables in Texas. It stipulates that candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalency and either hold an active permanent peace officer license or be eligible for licensing while obtaining such a license within a specified timeframe. Additionally, candidates must have either five years of experience as a federal special investigator or be military veterans with at least ten years of combined active duty or National Guard service. The bill also introduces new language regarding the qualifications for constables, mirroring the requirements set for sheriffs.

Furthermore, the bill repeals Section 86.0021 of the Local Government Code and clarifies that the changes do not apply to current sheriffs or constables whose terms began before the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025. This ensures that existing officeholders are not subject to the new qualifications during their current terms. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the standards for law enforcement leadership in Texas by establishing clearer eligibility criteria.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Local Government Code 85.0011, Subchapter A, Chapter , Local Government Code 1701.302, Occupations Code 1701.302, Local Government Code 86.0021 (Local Government Code 86, Subchapter A, Chapter , Local Government Code 1701, Local Government Code 85, Occupations Code 1701)