The bill, H.B. No. 4387, amends the Local Government Code to clarify the definition of a "civilian oversight board" and establish eligibility criteria for individuals wishing to serve on such boards. The new definition specifies that a civilian oversight board is a body created by a municipality to oversee, monitor, or investigate the actions of fire fighters and police officers, and it must consist of members of the public who are not part of these professions. Additionally, the bill introduces a new section that outlines specific disqualifications for serving on a civilian oversight board, including individuals who have been convicted of a felony or a crime involving moral turpitude.

The bill aims to ensure that only individuals with a clean legal record can participate in the oversight of public safety personnel, thereby enhancing the integrity and accountability of civilian oversight boards. The proposed changes will take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds majority vote from both houses of the legislature, or on September 1, 2025, if such a vote is not achieved.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Local Government Code 143.003 (Local Government Code 143)