reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter A. General Provisions and Administration › Section 411.0201. Reproduction of Records

Sec. 411.0201.  REPRODUCTION OF RECORDS.  (a)  Except as provided by Subsection (b), the department may photograph, microphotograph, or film any record in connection with the issuance of a driver's license or commercial driver's license and any record of any division of the department.
(b)  None of the following may be photographed or filmed to dispose of the original record:
(1)  an original fingerprint card;
(2)  any evidence submitted in connection with a criminal case;  or
(3)  a confession or statement made by the defendant in a criminal case.
(c)  The department may create original records in micrographic form on media, such as computer output microfilm.
(d)  A photograph, microphotograph, or film of a record reproduced under Subsection (a) is equivalent to the original record for all purposes, including introduction as evidence in all courts and administrative agency proceedings.  A certified or authenticated copy of such a photograph, microphotograph, or film is admissible as evidence equally with the original photograph, microphotograph, or film.
(e)  The director or an authorized representative may certify the authenticity of a photograph, microphotograph, or film of a record reproduced under this section and shall charge a fee for the certified photograph, microphotograph, or film as provided by law.
(f)  Certified records shall be furnished to any person who is authorized by law to receive them.
Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 6, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 1187, Sec. 3, eff. Sept. 1, 1997.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter A. General Provisions and Administration › Section 411.0202. Disposal of Records

Sec. 411.0202.  DISPOSAL OF RECORDS.  (a)  Unless otherwise required by law and subject to Chapter 441, the department may dispose of or destroy records that the department determines are not required for the performance of the department's duties and functions.
(b)  The department may dispose of or destroy a defendant's original fingerprint card if:
(1)  the department has on file and retains another original fingerprint card for the defendant;  or
(2)  the defendant has attained the age of 80.
Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 7, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter A. General Provisions and Administration › Section 411.0206. Abatement or Deferral for Victims of Identity Theft

Sec. 411.0206.  ABATEMENT OR DEFERRAL FOR VICTIMS OF IDENTITY THEFT.  (a) In this section:
(1)  "License" means a license, certificate, permit, or other authorization issued by the department.
(2)  "Victim of identity theft" means an individual who has filed a criminal complaint alleging the commission of an offense under Section 32.51, Penal Code, other than a person who is convicted of an offense under Section 37.08, Penal Code, with respect to that complaint.
(b)  The department may abate or defer a mandatory suspension or revocation of a license if the license holder presents evidence acceptable to the department that:
(1)  the license holder is the victim of identity theft; and
(2)  the person against whom a criminal complaint alleging the commission of an offense under Section 32.51, Penal Code, has been filed, and not the license holder, engaged in the act or omission that mandates the suspension or revocation.
Added by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 796 (H.B. 2256), Sec. 1, eff. June 17, 2011.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter A. General Provisions and Administration › Section 411.0208. Reserve Officer Corps

Sec. 411.0208.  RESERVE OFFICER CORPS.
Text of subsection effective until January 01, 2025
(a)  The commission may provide for the establishment of a reserve officer corps consisting of retired or previously commissioned peace officers, as defined by Article 2.12, Code of Criminal Procedure, who retired or resigned in good standing.
Text of subsection effective on January 01, 2025
(a)  The commission may provide for the establishment of a reserve officer corps consisting of retired or previously commissioned peace officers, as defined by Article 2A.001, Code of Criminal Procedure, who retired or resigned in good standing.
(b)  The commission shall establish qualifications and standards of training for members of the reserve officer corps.
(c)  The commission may limit the size of the reserve officer corps.
(d)  The director shall appoint the members of the reserve officer corps.  Members serve at the director's discretion.
(e)  The director may call the reserve officer corps into service at any time the director considers it necessary to have additional officers to assist the department in conducting background investigations, sex offender compliance checks, and other duties as determined necessary by the director.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 333 (H.B. 11), Sec. 9, eff. September 1, 2015.
Amended by:
Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 152 (H.B. 1780), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2017.
Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 765 (H.B. 4504), Sec. 2.083, eff. January 1, 2025.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter A. General Provisions and Administration › Section 411.0209. Department Assistance at International Border Checkpoints

Sec. 411.0209.  DEPARTMENT ASSISTANCE AT INTERNATIONAL BORDER CHECKPOINTS.  (a)  To prevent the unlawful transfer of contraband from this state to the United Mexican States and other unlawful activity, the department shall implement a strategy for providing to federal authorities and to local law enforcement authorities working with those federal authorities at international border checkpoints assistance in the interdiction of weapons, bulk currency, stolen vehicles, and other contraband, and of fugitives, being smuggled into the United Mexican States.
(b)  The department may share with the federal government the cost of staffing any international border checkpoints for the purposes described by this section.
(c)  The director and applicable local law enforcement authorities shall adopt procedures as necessary to administer this section.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 333 (H.B. 11), Sec. 9, eff. September 1, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter A. General Provisions and Administration › Section 411.02093. State Criminal Law Training Program for Border Patrol Agents

Text of section as added by Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 196 (S.B. 602), Sec. 2
For text of section as added by Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 208 (S.B. 1484), Sec. 1, see other Sec. 411.02093.
Sec. 411.02093.  STATE CRIMINAL LAW TRAINING PROGRAM FOR BORDER PATROL AGENTS.  (a)  The department shall:
(1)  develop a training program for Border Patrol Agents of the United States Customs and Border Protection on the criminal laws of this state, including laws relating to arrest, search, and seizure; and
(2)  on request, provide the training program developed under Subdivision (1) to a Border Patrol Agent.
(b)  The department may enter into a written agreement with  the United States Customs and Border Protection for purposes of providing the training program developed under this section.
Added by Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 196 (S.B. 602), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2023.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter A. General Provisions and Administration › Section 411.02093. Border Operations Training Program

Text of section as added by Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 208 (S.B. 1484), Sec. 1
For text of section as added by Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 196 (S.B. 602), Sec. 2, see other Sec. 411.02093.
Sec. 411.02093.  BORDER OPERATIONS TRAINING PROGRAM.  (a)  The department, in coordination with local law enforcement agencies, shall establish and administer a border operations training program for peace officers employed by local law enforcement agencies that will prepare the officers to:
(1)  collaborate and cooperate with and assist any law enforcement agency in the interdiction, investigation, and prosecution of criminal activity in the Texas-Mexico border region; and
(2)  collaborate and cooperate with and assist district attorneys, county attorneys, the border prosecution unit, and other prosecutors in the investigation and prosecution of allegations of criminal activity in the Texas-Mexico border region.
(b)  The training program under Subsection (a) must include:
(1)  information on:
(A)  criminal activity occurring along the Texas-Mexico border, including drug trafficking and trafficking of persons and other activity carried out by cartels, transnational gangs, and other groups engaged in organized criminal activity; and
(B)  methods for identifying northbound, southbound, and intrastate criminal activity associated with drug trafficking, trafficking of persons, and other organized criminal activity, including the provision of services to victims of trafficking;
(2)  best practices for investigating and prosecuting the criminal activity described by Subdivision (1) and securing the Texas-Mexico border; and
(3)  an overview of the department's operations at the Texas-Mexico border, including any collaboration with the United States Customs and Border Protection.
(c)  The department shall identify opportunities for a peace officer described by Subsection (a) to assist in the department's duties related to border operations.  The department may authorize the officer to assist in carrying out those duties.
(d)  A peace officer authorized by the department to assist in carrying out duties related to the department's border operations as described by Subsection (c) is not entitled to compensation from the department for the assistance provided.
(e)  The department may partner with federal agencies in administering the training program under Subsection (a) and facilitating any assistance provided by a peace officer under Subsection (c).
Added by Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 208 (S.B. 1484), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2023.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter A. General Provisions and Administration › Section 411.02095. Statewide Program for the Prevention and Detection of Certain Criminal Offenses

Sec. 411.02095.  STATEWIDE PROGRAM FOR THE PREVENTION AND DETECTION OF CERTAIN CRIMINAL OFFENSES.  (a)  The department may establish a program throughout this state for preventing and detecting:
(1)  the unlawful possession or the unlawful and imminent movement or transfer between this state and an adjacent state or the United Mexican States of:
(A)  firearms, in violation of Section 46.14, Penal Code;
(B)  controlled substances, in violation of Chapter 481, Health and Safety Code; or
(C)  currency, in violation of Section 34.02, Penal Code; and
(2)  the commission or imminent commission of the offenses of smuggling of persons under Section 20.05, Penal Code, and trafficking of persons under Section 20A.02, Penal Code, occurring in this state or involving travel between this state and an adjacent state or the United Mexican States.
(b)  A peace officer participating in a program established under this section must have reasonable suspicion or probable cause to believe that firearms, controlled substances, or currency are unlawfully possessed or being unlawfully and imminently moved or transferred between this state and an adjacent state or the United Mexican States or that an offense described by Subsection (a)(2) has been committed or imminently will be committed, as applicable, before exercising the officer's authority under the program, including stopping a person or vehicle or coming into contact with a person.
(c)  In developing the program, the department shall establish:
(1)  clear guidelines and procedures to mitigate any unnecessary negative impact on the flow of trade, commerce, or daily business activities in locations where the program is implemented; and
(2)  protocols, standards, and guidelines to minimize any intrusion on a person in an encounter with a peace officer exercising the officer's authority under the program.
(d)  The department shall implement the program established under this section in conjunction with federal and local law enforcement agencies.
(e)  The director shall adopt rules as necessary to implement and administer a program established under this section.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1221 (S.B. 1853), Sec. 1, eff. June 19, 2015.
Redesignated from Government Code, Section 411.0208 by Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 324 (S.B. 1488), Sec. 24.001(12), eff. September 1, 2017.
For expiration of this section, see Subsection (d).
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter A. General Provisions and Administration › Section 411.02096. Report Regarding Certain Firearm Statistics

Sec. 411.02096.  REPORT REGARDING CERTAIN FIREARM STATISTICS.  (a)  Not later than January 31 of each year, the department shall collect information for the preceding calendar year related to the carrying of firearms by persons in this state, including:
(1)  the number of persons who applied for a license to carry a handgun under Subchapter H compared to the yearly average number of people who applied for a license from 2010 through 2020; and
(2)  any other relevant information related to the carrying of firearms by persons in this state.
(b)  The department shall identify the entities that possess information required by Subsection (a) and require each entity  to report the information to the department in the manner prescribed by the department.
(c)  Not later than February 1 of each year, the department shall prepare and submit to the governor, the lieutenant governor, and each member of the legislature a report that includes the information described by Subsection (a).
(d)  This section expires September 1, 2028.
Added by Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 809 (H.B. 1927), Sec. 7, eff. September 1, 2021.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter A. General Provisions and Administration › Section 411.02097. Firearm Safety

Sec. 411.02097.  FIREARM SAFETY.  The department shall develop and post on the department's Internet website a course on firearm safety and handling.  The course must be accessible to the public free of charge.
Added by Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 809 (H.B. 1927), Sec. 7, eff. September 1, 2021.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter B. Texas Rangers › Section 411.021. Composition

Sec. 411.021.  COMPOSITION.  The Texas Rangers are a major division of the department consisting of the number of rangers authorized by the legislature. The highest ranking officer of the Texas Rangers is responsible to and reports directly to the director.  Officers are entitled to compensation as provided by the legislature.
Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 147, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.  Amended by Acts 1993, 73rd Leg., ch. 790, Sec. 11, eff. Sept. 1, 1993.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter B. Texas Rangers › Section 411.022. Authority of Officers

Sec. 411.022.  AUTHORITY OF OFFICERS.  (a)  An officer of the Texas Rangers is governed by the law regulating and defining the powers and duties of sheriffs performing similar duties, except that the officer may make arrests, execute process in a criminal case in any county and, if specially directed by the judge of a court of record, execute process in a civil case.
(b)  An officer of the Texas Rangers who arrests a person charged with a criminal offense shall immediately convey the person to the proper officer of the county where the person is charged and shall obtain a receipt.  The state shall pay all necessary expenses incurred under this subsection.
(c)  An officer of the Texas Rangers has the authority to investigate offenses against public administration prosecuted under Subchapter B-1.
Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 147, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
Amended by:
Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 927 (H.B. 1690), Sec. 4, eff. September 1, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter B. Texas Rangers › Section 411.0221. Qualifications

Sec. 411.0221.  QUALIFICATIONS.  (a)  To be commissioned as an officer of the Texas Rangers, a person must:
(1)  have at least eight years of experience as a full-time, paid peace officer, including at least four years of experience in the department;  and
(2)  be a commissioned member of the department.
(b)  The Texas Rangers is an equal employment opportunity employer;  all personnel decisions shall be made without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, or religion.
Added by Acts 1993, 73rd Leg., ch. 790, Sec. 12, eff. Sept. 1, 1993.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter B. Texas Rangers › Section 411.0222. Eligibility for Promotion

Sec. 411.0222.  ELIGIBILITY FOR PROMOTION.  Except as provided by Section 411.0223, an officer of the Texas Rangers is eligible for promotion only if the officer has served in the next lower position for at least two years before the date of promotion.
Added by Acts 1993, 73rd Leg., ch. 790, Sec. 12, eff. Sept. 1, 1993.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter B. Texas Rangers › Section 411.0223. Appointment of Highest-Ranking Officers

Sec. 411.0223.  APPOINTMENT OF HIGHEST-RANKING OFFICERS.  (a)  Except as provided by Subsection (c), an officer is eligible for appointment by the director to chief of the Texas Rangers only if the officer has at least five years of supervisory experience as a commissioned member of the Texas Rangers.
(b)  Except as provided by Subsection (c), an officer is eligible for appointment by the director to assistant chief of the Texas Rangers only if the officer has at least four years of supervisory experience as a commissioned member of the Texas Rangers.
(c)  If there are fewer than two qualified officers for appointment to chief or assistant chief of the Texas Rangers, the director may appoint an officer to the position of chief or assistant chief of the Texas Rangers only if the officer has at least two years of supervisory experience as a commissioned member of the Texas Rangers.
(d)  Except as provided by Subsection (e), an officer is eligible for appointment by the director to the rank of major of the Texas Rangers only if the officer has at least one year of supervisory experience as a captain of the Texas Rangers.
(e)  If there are fewer than two qualified captains for appointment to the rank of major of the Texas Rangers, the director may appoint a lieutenant to the position of major of the Texas Rangers only if the lieutenant has at least two years of supervisory experience as a commissioned member of the Texas Rangers.
Added by Acts 1993, 73rd Leg., ch. 790, Sec. 12, eff. Sept. 1, 1993.
Amended by:
Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1082 (H.B. 3412), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2013.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter B. Texas Rangers › Section 411.023. Special Rangers

Sec. 411.023.  SPECIAL RANGERS.  (a)  The commission may appoint as special rangers honorably retired commissioned officers of the department and not more than 300 other persons.
(b)  A special ranger is subject to the orders of the commission and the governor for special duty to the same extent as other law enforcement officers provided for by this chapter, except that a special ranger may not enforce a law except one designed to protect life and property and may not enforce a law regulating the use of a state highway by a motor vehicle.  A special ranger is not connected with a ranger company or uniformed unit of the department.
(c)  Before issuance of a commission to a special ranger the person shall enter into a good and sufficient bond executed by a surety company authorized to do business in the state in the amount of $2,500, approved by the director, and indemnifying all persons against damages resulting from an unlawful act of the special ranger.
(d)  A special ranger is not entitled to compensation from the state for service as a special ranger.
(e)  A special ranger commission expires January 1 of the first odd-numbered year after appointment.  The director may revoke a special ranger commission at any time for cause.
(f)  The commission shall authorize a badge for persons appointed as special rangers under this section that is distinct in appearance from the badge authorized for special Texas Rangers under Section 411.024 and from any badge issued to a Texas Ranger.
Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 147, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.  Amended by Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 1189, Sec. 9, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter B. Texas Rangers › Section 411.024. Special Texas Rangers

Sec. 411.024.  SPECIAL TEXAS RANGERS.  (a)  The commission may appoint as a special Texas Ranger an honorably retired or retiring commissioned officer of the department whose position immediately preceding retirement is an officer of the Texas Rangers.
(b)  A special Texas Ranger is subject to the orders of the commission and the governor for special duty to the same extent as other law enforcement officers provided for by this chapter, except that a special Texas Ranger may not enforce a law except one designed to protect life and property and may not enforce a law regulating the use of a state highway by a motor vehicle.  A special Texas Ranger is not connected with a ranger company or uniformed unit of the department.
(c)  Before issuance of a commission to a special Texas Ranger the person shall enter into a good and sufficient bond executed by a surety company authorized to do business in the state in the amount of $2,500, approved by the director, and indemnifying all persons against damages resulting from an unlawful act of the special Texas Ranger.
(d)  A special Texas Ranger is not entitled to compensation from the state for service as a special Texas Ranger.
(e)  A special Texas Ranger commission expires January 1 of the first odd-numbered year after appointment.  The commission may revoke the commission of a special Texas Ranger who commits a violation of a rule of the department for which an active officer of the Texas Rangers would be discharged.
(f)  The commission shall authorize a badge for persons appointed as special Texas Rangers under this section that is distinct in appearance from the badge authorized for special rangers under Section 411.023.
Added by Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 1189, Sec. 10, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter B. -1. Public Integrity Unit › Section 411.0251. Definitions

Sec. 411.0251.  DEFINITIONS.  In this subchapter:
(1)  "Offense" means a prohibited act for which state law imposes a criminal or civil penalty.
(2)  "Prosecuting attorney" means a district attorney, criminal district attorney, or county attorney.
(3)  "State agency" means a department, commission, board, office, council, authority, or other agency in the executive branch of state government that is created by the constitution or a statute of this state, including a university system or institution of higher education as defined by Section 61.003, Education Code.
(4)  "State employee" means an individual, other than a state officer, who is employed by:
(A)  a state agency;
(B)  the Supreme Court of Texas, the Court of Criminal Appeals of Texas, a court of appeals, or the Texas Judicial Council; or
(C)  either house of the legislature or a legislative agency, council, or committee, including the Legislative Budget Board, the Texas Legislative Council, the State Auditor's Office, and the Legislative Reference Library.
(5)  "State officer" means an elected officer, an appointed officer, a salaried appointed officer, an appointed officer of a major state agency, or the executive head of a state agency.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 927 (H.B. 1690), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter B. -1. Public Integrity Unit › Section 411.0252. Offenses Against Public Administration

Sec. 411.0252.  OFFENSES AGAINST PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION.  For purposes of this subchapter, the following are offenses against public administration:
(1)  an offense under Title 8, Penal Code, committed by a state officer or a state employee in connection with the powers and duties of the state office or state employment;
(2)  an offense under Chapter 301, 302, 571, 572, or 2004 committed by a state officer or a state employee in connection with the powers and duties of the state office or state employment or by a candidate for state office;
(3)  an offense under Chapter 573 committed by a state officer in connection with the powers and duties of the state office; and
(4)  an offense under Title 15, Election Code, committed in connection with:
(A)  a campaign for or the holding of state office; or
(B)  an election on a proposed constitutional amendment.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 927 (H.B. 1690), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter B. -1. Public Integrity Unit › Section 411.0253. Public Integrity Unit

Sec. 411.0253.  PUBLIC INTEGRITY UNIT.  (a)  The Texas Rangers division of the department shall establish and support a public integrity unit.
(b)  On receiving a formal or informal complaint regarding an offense against public administration or on request of a prosecuting attorney or law enforcement agency, the public integrity unit may perform an initial investigation into whether a person has committed an offense against public administration.
(c)  The Texas Rangers have authority to investigate an offense against public administration, any lesser included offense, and any other offense arising from conduct that constitutes an offense against public administration.
Text of subsection effective until January 01, 2025
(d)  If an initial investigation by the public integrity unit demonstrates a reasonable suspicion that an offense against public administration occurred, the matter shall be referred to the prosecuting attorney of the county in which venue is proper under Section 411.0256 or Chapter 13, Code of Criminal Procedure, as applicable.
Text of subsection effective on January 01, 2025
(d)  If an initial investigation by the public integrity unit demonstrates a reasonable suspicion that an offense against public administration occurred, the matter shall be referred to the prosecuting attorney of the county in which venue is proper under Section 411.0256 of this code or Chapter 13A, Code of Criminal Procedure, as applicable.
(e)  The public integrity unit shall, on request of the prosecuting attorney described by Subsection (d), assist the attorney in the investigation of an offense against public administration.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 927 (H.B. 1690), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2015.
Amended by:
Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 765 (H.B. 4504), Sec. 2.084, eff. January 1, 2025.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter B. -1. Public Integrity Unit › Section 411.0254. Notification Regarding Disposition of Case

Sec. 411.0254.  NOTIFICATION REGARDING DISPOSITION OF CASE.  The prosecuting attorney shall notify the public integrity unit of:
(1)  the termination of a case investigated by the public integrity unit; or
(2)  the results of the final disposition of a case investigated by the public integrity unit, including the final adjudication or entry of a plea.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 927 (H.B. 1690), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter B. -1. Public Integrity Unit › Section 411.0256. Venue

Text of section effective until January 01, 2025
Sec. 411.0256.  VENUE.  Notwithstanding Chapter 13, Code of Criminal Procedure, or other law, if the defendant is a natural person, venue for prosecution of an offense against public administration and lesser included offenses arising from the same transaction is the county in which the defendant resided at the time the offense was committed.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 927 (H.B. 1690), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2015.
Amended by:
Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 765 (H.B. 4504), Sec. 2.086, eff. January 1, 2025.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter B. -1. Public Integrity Unit › Section 411.0256. Venue

Text of section effective on January 01, 2025
Sec. 411.0256.  VENUE.  Notwithstanding Chapter 13A, Code of Criminal Procedure, or other law, if the defendant is a natural person, venue for prosecution of an offense against public administration and lesser included offenses arising from the same transaction is the county in which the defendant resided at the time the offense was committed.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 927 (H.B. 1690), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2015.
Amended by:
Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 765 (H.B. 4504), Sec. 2.086, eff. January 1, 2025.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter B. -1. Public Integrity Unit › Section 411.0257. Residence

Sec. 411.0257.  RESIDENCE.  For the purposes of this subchapter, a person resides in the county where that person:
(1)  claims a residence homestead under Chapter 41, Property Code, if that person is a member of the legislature;
(2)  claimed to be a resident before being subject to residency requirements under Article IV, Texas Constitution, if that person is a member of the executive branch of this state;
(3)  claims a residence homestead under Chapter 41, Property Code, if that person is a justice on the supreme court or judge on the court of criminal appeals; or
(4)  otherwise claims residence if no other provision of this section applies.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 927 (H.B. 1690), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter B. -1. Public Integrity Unit › Section 411.0258. Cooperation of State Agencies and Local Law Enforcement Agencies

Sec. 411.0258.  COOPERATION OF STATE AGENCIES AND LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES.  (a)  To the extent allowed by law, a state agency or local law enforcement agency shall cooperate with the public integrity unit and prosecuting attorney by providing resources and information requested by the unit as necessary to carry out the purposes of this subchapter.
(b)  Information disclosed under this section is confidential and not subject to disclosure under Chapter 552.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 927 (H.B. 1690), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter B. -1. Public Integrity Unit › Section 411.0259. Subpoenas

Sec. 411.0259.  SUBPOENAS.  (a)  In connection with an investigation of an alleged offense against public administration, the public integrity unit may issue a subpoena to compel the production, for inspection or copying, of relevant evidence that is in this state.
(b)  A subpoena may be served personally or by certified mail.
(c)  If a person fails to comply with a subpoena, the public integrity unit, acting through the general counsel of the department, may file suit to enforce the subpoena in a district court in this state.  On finding that good cause exists for issuing the subpoena, the court shall order the person to comply with the subpoena.  The court may punish a person who fails to obey the court order.
Added by Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 927 (H.B. 1690), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2015.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter C. Texas Highway Patrol › Section 411.031. Composition

Sec. 411.031.  COMPOSITION.  The Texas Highway Patrol is a division of the department consisting of the chief patrol officer, the number of captains, sergeants, and privates authorized by the legislature, and administrative and clerical help as the commission determines.  A person's literary attainment does not preclude the person's appointment as a private if the person is otherwise qualified.  The chief patrol officer is the executive officer of the patrol.  Officers are entitled to compensation as provided by the legislature.
Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 147, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter C. Texas Highway Patrol › Section 411.032. Powers and Duties of Officers

Sec. 411.032.  POWERS AND DUTIES OF OFFICERS.  In addition to the powers and duties provided by law for the officers, noncommissioned officers, and enlisted persons of the Texas Highway Patrol, they have the powers and authority provided by law for members of the Texas Rangers force.
Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 147, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter C. Texas Highway Patrol › Section 411.033. Certain Equipment for Vehicles

Sec. 411.033.  CERTAIN EQUIPMENT FOR VEHICLES.  The department shall equip all motor vehicles used by officers of the Texas Highway Patrol in discharging the officers' official duties with bullet-resistant windshields.
Added by Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 980 (S.B. 2222), Sec. 1, eff. June 18, 2021.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter D. Administrative Division › Section 411.041. Composition

Sec. 411.041.  COMPOSITION.  The administrative division of the department consists of the bureaus of identification and records, communications, intelligence, and training.  The director, with the advice and consent of the commission, shall employ chiefs, experts, operators, instructors, and assistants as necessary for the operation of this division and its bureaus.
Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 147, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter D. Administrative Division › Section 411.0421. Information Regarding Fraudulent Use of Identification

Sec. 411.0421.  INFORMATION REGARDING FRAUDULENT USE OF IDENTIFICATION.  (a)  The department shall create a record of each individual who:
(1)  in conjunction with the attorney representing the state in the prosecution of felonies in the county in which the individual resides and the sheriff of that county or, if the individual is not a resident of a county in this state, the attorney and sheriff in a county that the individual frequents, signs a declaration that the individual's identity has been used by another person to frustrate proper law enforcement without the individual's consent;  and
(2)  files that declaration with the department.
(b)  A declaration filed under this section must include:
(1)  the individual's name, social security number, driver's license number, date of birth, and other identifying data requested by the department;
(2)  a statement that the individual's name, social security number, driver's license number, date of birth, or other data has been used by another person to frustrate proper law enforcement;  and
(3)  a name, word, number, letter, or combination of 30 or fewer characters designated by the individual as a unique password to verify the individual's identity.
(c)  On receipt of a declaration under this section, the department shall create a record of the individual's identity, including a record of the individual's unique password, in the criminal history record information maintained by the department under Subchapter F. The department shall ensure that this record, including the unique password, is available online to any entity authorized to receive information from the department under Subchapter F.
Added by Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 1334, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.  Amended by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 945, Sec. 4, eff. June 14, 2001.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter D. Administrative Division › Section 411.043. Bureau of Communications

Sec. 411.043.  BUREAU OF COMMUNICATIONS.  (a)  The director, with the advice and consent of the commission, shall appoint the chief of the bureau of communications.
(b)  The bureau of communications shall:
(1)  provide for the rapid exchange between law enforcement agencies of the state, counties, municipalities, other states, and the federal government of information concerning the commission of crimes and the detection of violators of the law;  and
(2)  establish and operate, in coordination with state, county, and municipal law enforcement agencies, a state roads blockade system.
(c)  If funds are provided, the bureau of communications may install and operate a police radio broadcasting system for broadcasting information concerning the activities of violators of the law and for directing the activities and functions of the law enforcement agencies of the state, counties, and municipalities.  The bureau shall cooperate with county and municipal police authorities and police radio stations in this state and other states.
Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 147, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter D. Administrative Division › Section 411.044. Bureau of Intelligence

Sec. 411.044.  BUREAU OF INTELLIGENCE.  (a)  The director, with the advice and consent of the commission, shall appoint the chief of the bureau of intelligence.
(b)  The bureau of intelligence shall:
(1)  accumulate and analyze, with the aid of the other department divisions and bureaus, information of crime activities in the state and make the information available for use of the department and county and municipal law enforcement agencies;  and
(2)  aid in the detection and apprehension of violators of the law.
Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 147, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter D. Administrative Division › Section 411.045. Bureau of Training

Sec. 411.045.  BUREAU OF TRAINING.  (a)  The director, with the advice and consent of the commission, shall appoint the chief of the bureau of training.  The chief must have substantial experience in law enforcement and in instruction of law enforcement officers.
(b)  The bureau of training shall:
(1)  establish and operate schools for training department personnel in their duties and functions;
(2)  establish and operate schools for training county and municipal police officers who are selected to attend the schools by the authorities of the law enforcement agencies that employ them;  and
(3)  establish and carry out a comprehensive plan for the education of citizens of this state in matters of public safety and crime prevention and detection.
(c)  The chief of the bureau of training shall organize schools for department members and other peace officers and give instruction in the schools.
(d)  The adjutant general shall provide, for use of the bureau of training in conducting its training schools, suitable buildings, land, and state-owned equipment at Camp Mabry in Austin.
Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 147, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter D. Administrative Division › Section 411.046. Hate Crime Reporting

Sec. 411.046.  HATE CRIME REPORTING.  (a)  The bureau of identification and records shall establish and maintain a central repository for the collection and analysis of information relating to crimes that are motivated by prejudice, hatred, or advocacy of violence, including, but not limited to, incidents for which statistics are or were kept under Public Law No. 101-275, as that law existed on July 3, 1996.  On establishing the repository, the department shall develop a procedure to monitor, record, classify, and analyze information relating to incidents directed against persons and property that are apparently motivated by the factors listed in this subsection.
(b)  Local law enforcement agencies shall report offenses described by Subsection (a) in the form and manner and at regular intervals as prescribed by rules adopted by the department.  The department shall summarize and analyze information received under this subsection and file an annual report with the governor and legislature containing the summary and analysis.
(c)  The department shall make information, records, and statistics collected under this section available to any local enforcement agency, political subdivision, or state agency to the extent the information is reasonably necessary or useful to the agency or subdivision in carrying out duties imposed by law on the agency or subdivision.  This subsection may not be construed to limit access to information, records, or statistics which access if permitted by other law.  Dissemination of the names of defendants and victims is subject to all confidentiality requirements otherwise imposed by law.
Added by Acts 1991, 72nd Leg., 2nd C.S., ch. 10, Sec. 21A.01, eff. Oct. 1, 1991.  Amended by Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 1189, Sec. 11, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter D. Administrative Division › Section 411.047. Reporting Related to Certain Handgun Incidents Involving License Holders

Sec. 411.047.  REPORTING RELATED TO CERTAIN HANDGUN INCIDENTS INVOLVING LICENSE HOLDERS.  (a)  The department may maintain statistics on its website related to responses by law enforcement agencies to incidents in which a person licensed to carry a handgun under Subchapter H  is convicted of an offense only if the offense is prohibited under Subchapter H or under Title 5, Chapter 29, Chapter 46, or Section 30.02, Penal Code.
(b)  Such statistics shall be drawn and reported annually from the Department of Public Safety computerized criminal history file on persons 21 years of age and older and shall be compared in numerical and graphical format to all like offenses committed in the state for the reporting period as a percentage of the total of such reported offenses.
(c)  The department by rule shall adopt procedures for local law enforcement to make reports to the department described by Subsection (a).
Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 229, Sec. 6, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 10.06, eff. Sept. 1, 1997;  Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 1189, Sec. 12, eff. Sept. 1, 1999;  Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 1146, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
Amended by:
Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 437 (H.B. 910), Sec. 14, eff. January 1, 2016.
2023 Texas Statutes › Government Code › Title 4 - Executive Branch › Subtitle B - Law Enforcement and Public Protection › Chapter 411 - Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas › Subchapter D. Administrative Division › Section 411.0485. Protection for Judges

Sec. 411.0485.  PROTECTION FOR JUDGES.  Any commissioned peace officer in this state, including a commissioned officer of the department, may provide personal security to a state judge at any location in this state, regardless of the location of the law enforcement agency or department that employs or commissions the peace officer.
Added by Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 190 (S.B. 42), Sec. 16, eff. September 1, 2017.