The bill, S.B. No. 690, aims to enhance the authority of sheriffs and constables in counties with populations of 1 million or more by allowing them to enter into contracts for law enforcement services with property owners' associations or landowners in subdivisions. Specifically, it introduces new sections to the Local Government Code, namely Sections 85.025 and 86.026, which grant sheriffs and constables the ability to provide law enforcement services in designated areas without the need for approval from the commissioners court. This provision ensures that the terms of such contracts can be determined solely by the sheriff or constable, thereby streamlining the process for law enforcement service provision in these populous counties.

Additionally, the bill establishes financial protections for the offices of sheriffs and constables through Section 130.903, which prohibits counties from transferring appropriated funds to their general revenue or restricting the spending of these funds for lawful purposes. It mandates that any money received from contracts under the new sections must be credited directly to the respective law enforcement office and cannot reduce their appropriations. This legislative change is designed to ensure that sheriffs and constables have the necessary financial resources to effectively carry out their duties, thereby enhancing public safety in larger counties.

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