SCT H.B. 3278 75(R)    BILL ANALYSIS


STATE FEDERAL & INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
H.B. 3278
By: Counts
4-14-97
Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND


From time to time the Texas National Guard is called upon to assist a
federal  law enforcement agency in enforcing drug laws.  In some instances
the assistance by the Texas National Guard may lead to a drug bust and
seizure or forfeiture of property.  Under present law the Texas National
Guard can not participate in the forfeiture because they are not
considered to be a law enforcement agency. 

PURPOSE

To designate the Texas National Guard as a law enforcement agency for the
purpose of participation in seized and forfeited goods during a drug raid. 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not grant any additional rulelmaking authority to a state
officer, institution, or agency. 

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION  1.  Subchapter C, Chapter 431 Government Code, is amended by
adding Section  
   431.046 to read as follows:

SECTION 431.046.  PROPERTY FORFEITURE.
   Sets forth the Texas National Guard as a law enforcement agency for the
purpose 
  of participating in sharing of seized property.

SECTION  2.  Emergency clause and effective date of the this Act.