SRC-SLL H.B. 3278 75(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center H.B. 3278 By: Counts (Patterson) Criminal Justice 5-13-97 Engrossed DIGEST From time to time the Texas National Guard (guard) is called upon to assist a federal law enforcement agency in enforcing drug laws. In some instances the assistance of the guard may lead to a drug arrest and seizure or forfeiture of property. Under present law, the guard cannot participate in the forfeiture because the guard is not considered to be a law enforcement agency. This bill will designate the guard as a law enforcement agency in certain circumstances. PURPOSE As proposed, H.B. 3278 designates the Texas National Guard as a law enforcement agency in certain circumstances. RULEMAKING AUTHORITY This bill does not grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency. SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS SECTION 1. Amends Chapter 431C, Government Code, by adding Section 431.046, as follows: Sec. 431.046. PROPERTY FORFEITURE. Provides that, when the Texas National Guard (guard) assists a federal law enforcement agency in enforcing drug laws, the guard is considered to be a law enforcement agency of the state for purposes of participating in the sharing of property seized or forfeited to the United States under federal law. SECTION 2. Emergency clause. Effective date: upon passage.