The bill, S.B. No. 2109, amends Section 86.011 of the Local Government Code regarding the appointment of deputy constables in Texas. It establishes that the appointment must be in writing and outlines the process for deputy constables to take an official oath before performing their duties. Additionally, it allows individuals who are reappointed as deputies to continue their duties without retaking the oath immediately, provided they do so as soon as possible after reappointment. The bill also clarifies that a deputy serves at the pleasure of the constable, who has the authority to revoke the appointment if the deputy is indicted for a felony.

Furthermore, the bill removes the previous requirement for constables to apply to the commissioners court for deputy appointments, streamlining the process. It maintains that constables are responsible for the actions of their deputies and may require them to post a bond. The bill also specifies penalties for individuals who serve as deputy constables without proper appointment or who issue deputyships without the necessary approval. The act is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if that vote is not achieved.

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