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HB 336

Relating to the authority of sheriffs and constables to enter into contracts to provide law enforcement services in certain counties and county financial authority in relation to sheriffs and constables in certain counties.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Mike Schofield

HB 336 expands Texas sheriffs' and constables' authority to contract for law enforcement services while clarifying county financial oversight in select counties.

Placed on General State Calendar
#constables(s2357) #countygovernment--employees/officers(i0095) #countygovernment--general(i0096) #lawenforcement(i0510) #propertyowners'&homeowners'associations(s0093) #sheriffs(s1013)
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Bill Summary · HB 336

Legislative bill overview

HB 336 expands the contractual authority of sheriffs and constables in certain Texas counties to enter into agreements for providing law enforcement services, while also clarifying county financial controls and oversight mechanisms related to these officials. The bill appears designed to increase flexibility in how law enforcement services are organized and funded at the county level in specific jurisdictions.

Why is this important

Law enforcement service delivery models directly affect public safety responsiveness, cost efficiency, and accountability in rural and suburban Texas counties. Clarifying contractual authority and financial oversight could allow counties to customize service arrangements but may also create regulatory gaps if oversight mechanisms are insufficient.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of "certain counties": The bill's applicability to specific county classifications needs clarification—it's unclear whether this creates a two-tier system with different rules for different counties, raising equity concerns
  • Financial oversight balance: Expanding sheriff and constable contracting authority while simultaneously addressing "county financial authority" could either strengthen or weaken county commissioner control depending on how authority is distributed
  • Accountability mechanisms: Increased privatization or privatization-adjacent contracting could complicate public accountability if oversight structures aren't explicitly defined

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

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