H.B. No. 1866 amends the Code of Criminal Procedure to clarify the law enforcement authority of commissioned officers of the National Park Service (NPS) in Texas. The bill specifies that while NPS officers are not considered peace officers under Texas law, they are granted certain powers within national parks and national recreation areas. These powers include the authority to arrest, search, and seize for offenses committed under Texas law in these areas, as well as the ability to execute arrest and search warrants issued under state law. Additionally, the bill grants NPS officers the powers typically afforded to peace officers under specific chapters of the Health and Safety Code.

The bill also defines "national park or national recreation area" in accordance with the National Park System as outlined in federal law. This legislation aims to enhance the enforcement capabilities of NPS officers in Texas, ensuring they can effectively uphold the law within their jurisdiction. The act will take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses of the Texas Legislature or on September 1, 2025, if such a vote is not achieved.