BILL ANALYSIS
Senate Research Center S.B. 602
80R5134 ESH-F By: Van de Putte
AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT
Historically, labor organizations that represent peace officers provide legal representation, handle grievances, and negotiate with public employers for their members. They also participate in the political process by raising money for political action committees and endorsing candidates, activities primarily funded by member dues. Some of these organizations now provide training required by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education for their members, and as such, have sought out and been awarded funding by state agencies. Serious questions have been raised about such funding, however, including ethical questions about the state providing funds to organizations that are involved in the political process.
As proposed, S.B. 602 prohibits a labor organization that represents peace officers from operating a political action committee, assisting a political committee, or making political contributions if the organization accepts funding from a state agency.
RULEMAKING AUTHORITY
This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency.
SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS
SECTION 1. Amends Section 253.094, Election Code, by adding Subsection (b-1), as follows:
(b-1) Prohibits a labor organization that represents peace officers and accepts grants or appropriated money from a state agency from establishing a political committee, assisting a political committee in performing political activities, or making a political contribution or expenditure.
SECTION 2. Effective date: September 1, 2007.