HB 26

The Harris County Contract Deputy Program allows entities such as homeowner associations, municipal utility districts, and school districts to contract with local law enforcement agencies for the provision of law enforcement services. In general, the program is overseen by Harris County and contracts are based on coverage options of 70, 80, or 100 percent coverage with the cost of the program split between Harris County and the contracting entity. The bill author has informed the committee that increasing friction between local law enforcement agencies and the Harris County Commissioners Court over the terms and conditions of the contracts threatens the sustainability of this program. C.S.H.B. 26 seeks to ensure the continued viability of this law enforcement service arrangement by authorizing sheriffs and constables in a county with a