H.B. No. 5082 amends the Local Government Code to enhance the enforcement of drug laws by municipalities and counties in Texas. The bill introduces new provisions that prohibit local governing bodies from adopting any policies or regulations that do not fully enforce state and federal drug laws, specifically referencing Section 370.003. It establishes civil penalties for entities that violate these provisions, with fines starting at $25,000 for the first violation and escalating to $50,000 for subsequent violations. Additionally, the bill allows citizens to file complaints with the attorney general regarding violations, and the attorney general is empowered to seek equitable relief in court.

The bill also includes specific amendments to existing sections of the Local Government Code, such as the addition of Section 9.0046, which prevents municipalities from holding elections on charter provisions that conflict with state or federal drug laws. Furthermore, it introduces Section 51.0021, which similarly restricts municipalities from enacting ordinances that violate drug laws. The legislation aims to ensure that local governments adhere strictly to drug enforcement laws and provides mechanisms for accountability and penalties for non-compliance.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Local Government Code 9.003, Local Government Code 9.004, Local Government Code 370.003 (Local Government Code 370, Local Government Code 9)