House Bill No. 5470 aims to enhance the authority of sheriffs and constables in counties with populations of 3.3 million or more by allowing them to enter into contracts for law enforcement services. The bill introduces new sections to the Local Government Code, specifically Sections 85.025 and 86.026, which define the terms under which sheriffs and constables can contract with local governments, businesses, property owners' associations, or landowners to provide law enforcement services in their respective areas. Importantly, the bill stipulates that the commissioners court cannot prohibit or restrict these contracts, allowing sheriffs and constables to determine the terms independently of the court's approval.

Additionally, the bill includes Section 130.903, which establishes financial protections for the offices of sheriffs and constables in these counties. It prohibits the transfer of funds appropriated to these offices to the county's general revenue fund and ensures that any money received from contracts under the new sections is credited directly to the respective office. This provision aims to safeguard the financial autonomy of law enforcement agencies, ensuring they can utilize their appropriated funds without interference from the county government. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if that threshold is not met.

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