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.