The bill amends the Local Government Code to establish salary assistance grant programs for rural sheriff's offices and constable's offices in Texas. It introduces the definition of "qualified emergency dispatcher," which refers to individuals providing communication support services for sheriff's and constable's offices during emergencies. The bill specifies that counties awarded grants must use the funds to ensure minimum annual salaries of at least $75,000 for sheriffs, $45,000 for deputies making motor vehicle stops, $40,000 for jailers, and $40,000 for qualified emergency dispatchers. Additionally, it mandates that counties contribute at least 75% of the required salary for each qualified constable and dispatcher funded by the grant.

The bill also outlines the responsibilities of the comptroller in awarding grants and implementing rules for the application process, deadlines, and monitoring of fund disbursement. It emphasizes the need for counties to adhere to the established salary requirements and provides a framework for determining the qualifications of constables and emergency dispatchers. The changes will take effect for grants awarded during fiscal years beginning on or after the bill's effective date, which could be immediate or on September 1, 2025, depending on legislative approval.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Local Government Code 130.911, Local Government Code 130.912 (Local Government Code 130)