H.B. No. 3846 amends various sections of the Local Government Code and the Occupations Code to clarify the roles and responsibilities of reserve peace officers and reserve deputy constables. The bill allows these officers to carry weapons and act as peace officers at all times, unless the sheriff or constable limits their authority to specific duties. It removes previous language that restricted non-full-time officers from acting as peace officers only during the discharge of official duties. Additionally, the bill specifies that reserve officers are not eligible for benefits typically associated with full-time employment, such as pension funds.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new reporting requirements for law enforcement agencies that appoint non-full-time officers. These agencies must submit reports detailing the employment activities of these officers, including the number of hours worked and the nature of the services provided. The commission is tasked with adopting rules to implement these requirements and must submit a summary report to key legislative leaders by September 1, 2026. The bill aims to enhance oversight and accountability for non-full-time law enforcement personnel while ensuring they have the necessary authority to perform their duties effectively.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Local Government Code 85.004, Local Government Code 86.012, Local Government Code 341.012, Occupations Code 1702.322, Water Code 60.0775 (Local Government Code 341, Water Code 60, Local Government Code 85, Local Government Code 86, Occupations Code 1702)
House Committee Report: Local Government Code 85.004, Local Government Code 86.012, Local Government Code 341.012, Water Code 60.0775 (Local Government Code 341, Water Code 60, Local Government Code 85, Local Government Code 86, Occupations Code 1702)