S.B. No. 1482 aims to enhance salary assistance grant programs for rural sheriff's and constable's offices in Texas. The bill introduces the term "qualified emergency dispatcher," defined as individuals providing communication support services for sheriff's and constable's offices during emergencies. It amends the Local Government Code to specify that counties awarded grants must allocate funds to ensure minimum annual salaries of $75,000 for sheriffs, $45,000 for deputies making motor vehicle stops, $40,000 for jailers, and now includes $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 establishing rules for the application process, deadlines, and monitoring compliance. It specifies that the changes will only apply to grants awarded during fiscal years beginning after the bill's effective date. The act will take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if such a vote is not achieved.

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