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Bill

SB 1564

Relating to the peace officer status of designated investigators of a municipal office of inspector general.

89th Legislature (2025)

Bill grants peace officer status to municipal inspector general investigators, allowing them to carry firearms and make arrests in conducting corruption and misconduct investigations.

Referred to Criminal Justice
#citygovernment--employees/officers(i0061) #dallas #cityof(g3199) #lawenforcement #texascommissionon(v0986) #lawenforcement(i0510) #peaceofficers(s0007)
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Bill Summary · SB 1564

Legislative bill overview

SB 1564 would grant peace officer status to designated investigators employed by municipal offices of inspector general in Texas. This change would allow these investigators to carry firearms, make arrests, and exercise other law enforcement powers currently limited to certified peace officers. The bill is in its early stages, having been referred to the Criminal Justice Committee after first reading.

Why is this important

Inspector general offices investigate misconduct, fraud, and corruption within municipal government. Granting their investigators peace officer status could enhance their enforcement capabilities and investigation authority. However, this represents a significant expansion of armed law enforcement authority within government accountability structures that have traditionally operated with civilian oversight mechanisms.

Potential points of contention

  • Accountability concerns: Armed investigators operating within executive oversight bodies may create questions about checks and balances, particularly regarding investigations of law enforcement agencies themselves
  • Training and certification standards: Peace officer status requires specific training, licensing, and liability standards; costs and implementation details are unclear
  • Mission creep: Investigators focused on government corruption and administrative matters may face pressure to exceed their intended scope with law enforcement powers

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

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