BILL ANALYSIS
By: Van de Putte
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE
Human trafficking is a problem all across the State of Texas. There is no mandatory standard which requires a peace officer to have attend a basic training or education program relating to the offense of human trafficking or how to collect and document evidence properly.
S.B. 1285 establishes a required basic education and training program (basic program) and a voluntary advanced education and training program relating to human trafficking for peace officers. This bill requires currently licensed peace officers to complete the basic program within five years from the effective date of this bill.
RULEMAKING AUTHORITY
It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.
ANALYSIS
S.B. 1285 amends the Occupations Code to require the Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education (commission) to design and establish a one-time basic education and training program (basic program) and an advanced education and training program (advanced program) relating to the trafficking of persons. Each program must include a review of the substance of Sections 20A.02 (Trafficking of Persons) and 43.05 (Compelling Prostitution), Penal Code.
The basic program must consist of at least four hours of training and must be made available through at least two of the following presentation methods: live presentation, online presentation, video presentation, and regional distance learning presentation. The commission must require each peace officer to complete the basic program, and make available to each peace officer on a voluntary basis the advanced program.
Not later than September 1, 2012, a peace officer who holds a license issued by the commission before September 1, 2007, shall complete the basic education and training program relating to the trafficking of persons. Section 1701.2535(d), Occupations Code, expires September 1, 2013.
Not later than January 1, 2008, the commission shall begin offering the basic and advanced programs established. Section 1701.2535(e), Occupations Code, expires September 1, 2008.
EFFECTIVE DATE
September 1, 2007.