The bill amends the Local Government Code to clarify the definition of "population" for the purpose of the salary assistance grant program for rural sheriff's offices, constable's offices, and prosecutor's offices. Specifically, it defines "population" as the most recent federal decennial census or, if more recent, the annual population estimate provided by the state demographer. Additionally, it introduces the term "qualified county," which refers to counties with a population of 300,000 or less. Similar definitions are provided for "qualified constable" and "qualified prosecutor's office," ensuring that these terms align with the newly defined population criteria.

The amendments also specify that the changes in law will only apply to grant awards for counties during fiscal years that begin on or after the effective date of the Act. The Act is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses of the legislature; otherwise, it will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Local Government Code 130.911, Local Government Code 130.912, Local Government Code 130.913 (Local Government Code 130)