Senate Bill No. 1870 aims to enhance the enforcement of drug and consumable hemp product laws at the municipal and county levels in Texas. The bill introduces Chapter 366 to the Local Government Code, which includes definitions and provisions regarding local entities responsible for enforcement. It specifies that local entities, such as municipalities, counties, and law enforcement agencies, are prohibited from adopting any measures that would prevent them from fully enforcing state laws related to drugs and consumable hemp products. Additionally, local entities are barred from placing items on ballots that would suggest non-enforcement of these laws.

The bill also establishes a framework for citizens to file complaints with the attorney general if they believe a local entity has violated enforcement provisions. The attorney general is empowered to take legal action against local entities found in violation, including seeking civil penalties. The penalties for violations are set at a minimum of $25,000 for the first offense and $50,000 for subsequent offenses, with each day of continued violation counting as a separate offense. The bill emphasizes that local entities cannot claim governmental immunity in these cases, ensuring accountability in the enforcement of drug and hemp product laws.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Local Government Code 9.003, Local Government Code 9.004, Local Government Code 370.003 (Local Government Code 9, Local Government Code 370)
Senate Committee Report: (Local Government Code 9, Local Government Code 370)
Engrossed: (Local Government Code 9, Local Government Code 370)
House Committee Report: (Local Government Code 9, Local Government Code 370)