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HB 4419

Relating to peace officers commissioned by the Health and Human Services Commission's office of inspector general.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Christian Manuel and 2 co-sponsors

HB 4419 grants Texas HHS Office of Inspector General authority to commission peace officers with full law enforcement powers to investigate fraud within state health and human services programs.

Left pending in committee
#health&humanservicescommission(v0177) #health--general(i0385) #inspectorgeneralforhealth&humanservices(v0860) #lawenforcement(i0510) #peaceofficers(s0007)
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Bill Summary · HB 4419

Legislative bill overview

HB 4419 authorizes the Health and Human Services Commission's Office of Inspector General to commission peace officers with full law enforcement authority to investigate fraud, waste, and abuse within HHS programs and facilities. The bill grants these officers powers including arrest, search warrant execution, and carrying firearms while performing their duties.

Why is this important

HHS programs serve millions of Texans and manage billions in state and federal funds, making fraud investigation critical to protecting resources and program integrity. Creating dedicated peace officers for this purpose could streamline investigations and strengthen accountability, though it also expands law enforcement authority within a healthcare/social services context where beneficiaries may be vulnerable populations.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of authority: Whether inspector general peace officers need full law enforcement powers or if investigative credentials without arrest authority would suffice
  • Oversight and accountability: Questions about what civilian oversight mechanisms and training standards apply to these officers compared to traditional police
  • Cost and necessity: Whether dedicated commissioned officers are more efficient than contract investigators or existing law enforcement partnerships for HHS fraud cases

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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