TITLE 37.PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONS

Part 7. TEXAS COMMISSION ON LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER STANDARDS AND EDUCATION

Chapter 211. ADMINISTRATION

37 TAC §211.27

The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education (Commission) proposes an amendment to §211.27, concerning Reporting Responsibilities of Individuals. A proposed amendment to subsection (d) amended by adding language that would require a licensee to report a permanent mailing address or address change to the Commission. New subsection (e) reflects the effective date for these changes.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will not be fiscal implications to state or local governments as a result of administering the section.

The Commission has determined that for the each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to large, small, or micro businesses as a result of the proposed section.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will be a positive benefit to the public by reducing the amount of time that Commission staff spends with outside entities to retrieve licensee addresses.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five year the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to individuals as a result of the proposed section.

Comments may be submitted in writing to Mr. Frank Woodall, Acting Executive Director, Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education, 6330 Highway 290 East, Suite 200, Austin, TX 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1701, §1701.151 General Powers which authorized the Commission to promulgate rules for administration of this chapter. The rule amendment as proposed is in compliance with Texas Occupations Code §1701.202 Complaints.

No other code, article, or statute is affected by this proposal.

§211.27.Reporting Responsibilities of Individuals.

(a) When a licensee is arrested, charged, or indicted for a criminal offense above the grade of Class C misdemeanor or for any Class C misdemeanor involving the duties and responsibilities of office or family violence, that person must report such fact to the commission in writing within 30 days, including the name of the arresting agency, the style, court, and cause number of the charge or indictment, if any, and the address to which notice of any commission action will be mailed.

(b) A person to whom this section applies must also report to the commission the final disposition of the criminal action within 30 days of the effective date of the disposition.

(c) A licensee must report any name change to the commission within 30 days.

(d) A licensee must report to the Commission a permanent mailing address other than an agency address and must report to the Commission any change within 30 days.

(e) [ (d) ] The effective date of this section is June 1, 2006 [ March 1, 2002 ].

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 22, 2005.

TRD-200506061

Frank Woodall

Acting Executive Director

Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education

Proposed date of adoption: June 1, 2006

For further information, please call: (512) 936-7700


37 TAC §211.29

The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education (Commission) proposes an amendment to §211.29, concerning Responsibilities of Agency Chief Administrators. A proposed amendment to subsections (c), (f), (g), and (h) are amended to be consistent with the new language in the Texas Occupations Code §1701.452. Subsection (h) is amended to require that chief administrators notify the Commission of any changes to name, physical location, mailing address, electronic mail address, or telephone number. Subsection (i) is amended to reflect the effective date for these changes.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will not be fiscal implications to state or local governments as a result of administering the section.

The Commission has determined that for the each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to large, small, or micro businesses as a result of the proposed section.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will be a positive benefit to the public by ensuring that the rules are consistent with the requirements of the Occupations Code and ensuring that departmental information is current.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five year the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to individuals as a result of the proposed section.

Comments may be submitted in writing to Mr. Frank Woodall, Acting Executive Director, Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education, 6330 Highway 290 East, Suite 200, Austin, TX 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1701, §1701.151 General Powers which authorized the Commission to promulgate rules for administration of this chapter. The rule amendment as proposed is in compliance with Texas Occupations Code §1701.452 Employment Termination Report, and §1701.153 Reports From Agencies and Schools.

No other code, article, or statute is affected by this proposal.

§211.29.Responsibilities of Agency Chief Administrators.

(a) An agency chief administrator is responsible for making any and all reports and submitting any and all documents required of that agency by the commission.

(b) An agency appointing a person who does not hold a commission license must file an application for the appropriate license with the commission.

(c) Before an [ An ] agency appoints [ shall notify the commission of appointment of ] any licensee to a position requiring a commission license it shall complete the reporting requirements of Texas Occupations Code §1701.451.

(d) An agency shall notify the commission, electronically or in writing, within 30 days, when it receives information that a person under appointment with that agency has been arrested, charged, indicted, or convicted for any offense above a Class C misdemeanor, or for any Class C misdemeanor involving the duties and responsibilities of office or family violence.

(e) Except in the case of a commission error, an agency that wishes to report a change to any information within commission files about a licensee shall do so in a request to the commission, containing:

(1) the licensee’s name and social security number;

(2) the requested change; and

(3) the reason for the change.

(f) An agency must notify the commission, electronically or in writing, following the requirements of Texas Occupations Code §1701.452 within 30 days, when a person under appointment with that agency resigns or is terminated. [ Such notification shall include the reason for resignation or termination. ]

(g) An agency chief administrator must comply with orders from the commission regarding the correction of a report of resignation/termination or request a hearing from SOAH.

(h) [ (g) ] Line of duty deaths shall be reported to the commission in current peace officers’ memorial reporting formats.

(i) [ (h) ] The effective date of this section is June 1, 2006 [ March 1, 2001 ].

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 22, 2005.

TRD-200506062

Frank Woodall

Acting Executive Director

Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education

Proposed date of adoption: June 1, 2006

For further information, please call: (512) 936-7700


37 TAC §211.31

The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education (Commission) proposes an amendment to §211.31, concerning Memorandum of Understanding on Continuity of Care. An amendment is proposed for a name change for one of the agencies that work under this memorandum of understanding. Prior to January 2005, this agency was named The Texas Council on Offenders with Mental Impairments. During the 78th legislature, the mission of this agency was broadened, thus the name change to The Texas Correctional Office on Offenders with Mental and Medical Impairments. Subsection (b) is amended to reflect the effective date for these changes.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will not be fiscal implications to state or local governments as a result of administering the section.

The Commission has determined that for the each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect, there will be no anticipated economic cost to large, small, or micro businesses as a result of the proposed section.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section, as proposed, will be in effect, there will be a positive benefit to the public by ensuring that the rules are consistent with the requirements of the Occupations Code and ensuring that departmental information is current.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five year the section as proposed will be in effect, there will be no anticipated economic cost to individuals as a result of the proposed section.

Comments may be submitted in writing to Mr. Frank Woodall, Acting Executive Director, Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education, 6330 Highway 290 East, Suite 200, Austin, TX 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1701, §1701.151 General Powers which authorized the Commission to promulgate rules for administration of this chapter. The rule amendment as proposed is in compliance with Texas Occupations Code §1701.404 Memorandum of Understanding on Continuity of Care.

No other code, article, or statute is affected by this proposal.

§211.31.Memorandum of Understanding on Continuity of Care

(a) The Commission adopts, by reference, a memorandum of understanding that [ which ] establishes its responsibilities to institute a continuity of care program for offenders who are mentally impaired, elderly, physically disabled, terminally ill or significantly ill, as also adopted by the Texas Correctional Office on Offenders with Mental and Medical Impairments [ Texas Council on Offenders with Mental Impairments ] and the Texas Commission on Jail Standards. Copies of the memorandum of understanding may be obtained from the commission.

(b) The effective date of this section is June 1, 2006 [ March 1, 2001 ].

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 22, 2005.

TRD-200506063

Frank Woodall

Acting Executive Director

Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education

Proposed date of adoption: June 1, 2006

For further information, please call: (512) 936-7700


Chapter 215. TRAINING AND EDUCATIONAL PROVIDERS AND RELATED MATTERS

37 TAC §215.1

The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education (Commission) proposes an amendment to §215.1, concerning Licensing of Training Providers. A proposed amendment to subsections (a)(3) and (b)(3) are amended to be consistent with definition changes and to licensing of training providers. Subsection (d) is amended to reflect the effective date for these changes.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will not be fiscal implications to state or local governments as a result of administering the section.

The Commission has determined that for the each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to large, small, or micro businesses as a result of the proposed section.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section, as proposed, will be in effect there will be a positive benefit to the public by clarifying the intention of the rule.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five year the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to individuals as a result of the proposed section.

Comments may be submitted in writing to Mr. Frank Woodall, Acting Executive Director, Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education, 6330 Highway 290 East, Suite 200, Austin, TX 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1701, §1701.151 General Powers which authorized the Commission to promulgate rules for administration of this chapter. The rule amendment as proposed is in compliance with Texas Occupations Code §1701.251 Training Programs; Instructors.

No other code, article, or statute is affected by this proposal.

§215.1.Licensing of Training Providers.

(a) The commission may issue credentials to three types of training or education providers:

(1) licensed law enforcement academy;

(2) contractual training provider; or

(3) a licensed academic alternative provider.

(b) The commission issues these licenses or contracts for a specified period of time:

(1) five years for a licensed law enforcement academy;

(2) two years for a contractual training provider;

(3) five years for a licensed academic alternative provider; or

(4) for a shorter period as appropriate for a program found to be at risk.

(c) License renewal is dependent upon continued compliance with commission rules and performance, which includes risk assessment.

(d) The effective date of this section is June 1, 2006 [ June 1, 2004 ].

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 22, 2005.

TRD-200506064

Frank Woodall

Acting Executive Director

Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education

Proposed date of adoption: June 1, 2006

For further information, please call: (512) 936-7700


37 TAC §215.5

The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education (Commission) proposes an amendment to §215.5, concerning Contractual Training. A proposed amendment to subsection (f)(6) is changed to reflect proposed amendments to §211.1(a)(60), and §215.9. Subsection (f) is amended to reflect the effective date for these changes.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will not be fiscal implications to state or local governments as a result of administering the section.

The Commission has determined that for the each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to large, small, or micro businesses as a result of the proposed section.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section, as proposed, will be in effect will be a positive benefit to law enforcement academies, contractual training, and academies alternative providers. Training providers are required by §215.9 to appoint a training coordinator. Section 215.9 sets out the qualifications of a training coordinator. This rule changes brings the language of §215.5(f)(6) in complement with §211.1(a)(60), and §215.9.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five year the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to individuals as a result of the proposed section.

Comments may be submitted in writing to Mr. Frank Woodall, Acting Executive Director, Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education, 6330 Highway 290 East, Suite 200, Austin, TX 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1701, §1701.151 General Powers which authorized the Commission to promulgate rules for administration of this chapter. The rule amendment as proposed is in compliance with Texas Occupations Code §1701.251 Training Programs; Instructors.

No other code, article, or statute is affected by this proposal.

§215.5.Contractual Training.

(a) - (e) (No change.)

(f) If the commission determines that the needs assessment justifies a contract, the chief administrator of the contractual training provider must:

(1) - (5) (No change.)

(6) appoint and maintain the appointment of a [ qualified ] training coordinator;

(7) - (8) (No change.)

(g) By entering into any such contract the commission approves specific training which will be fully credited to each licensee [ by the commission to each student licensee as continuing education training or to the agency as continuing education training provided by that agency ], unless:

(1) - (3) (No change.)

(h) (No change.)

(i) The effective date of this section is June 1, 2006 [ June 1, 2004 ].

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 22, 2005.

TRD-200506065

Frank Woodall

Acting Executive Director

Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education

Proposed date of adoption: June 1, 2006

For further information, please call: (512) 936-7700


37 TAC §215.7

The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education (Commission) proposes an amendment to §215.7, concerning Training Provider Advisory Boards. A proposed amendment to subsection (a) adds the Texas Occupations Code, §1701.252 for clarification. Subsection (b) is changed to provide reference to §1701.052 Texas Occupations Code establishing the criteria for public members of an advisory board. Subsection (f) is amended to reflect the effective date for these changes.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will not be fiscal implications to state or local governments as a result of administering the section.

The Commission has determined that for the each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to large, small, or micro businesses as a result of the proposed section.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section, as proposed will be in effect there will be a positive benefit to law enforcement academies, contractual training, and academies alternative providers. Training providers are required by §1701.252 Texas Occupations Code to establish training advisory boards. These advisory boards must have one-third (1/3) of its members meet the requirements for a public member of the commission. Current rules do not reference the section that establishes these requirements.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five year the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to individuals as a result of the proposed section.

Comments may be submitted in writing to Mr. Frank Woodall, Acting Executive Director, Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education, 6330 Highway 290 East, Suite 200, Austin, TX 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1701, §1701.151 General Powers which authorized the Commission to promulgate rules for administration of this chapter. The rule amendment as proposed is in compliance with Texas Occupations Code §1701.252 Program and School Requirements; Advisory Board.

No other code, article, or statute is affected by this proposal.

§215.7.Training Provider Advisory Board.

(a) All training providers approved by the commission must establish and maintain an advisory board, as required by the Texas Occupations Code, §1701.252 [ law ]. To be established, this board must have at least three members who are appointed by the sponsoring organization. To be maintained, the active, appointed membership of the board must not fall below a quorum for more than 30 days.

(b) The board may have members who are law enforcement personnel, however, one-third of the members must be public members having the same qualifications, found in the Texas Occupations Code, [ Chapter ] §1701.052 [ 1701.252 ], as any commissioner who is required by law to be a member of the general public. The chief administrator or head of the sponsoring organization and the designated training coordinator may only be ex-officio, non-voting members.

(c) - (k) (No change.)

(l) The effective date of this section is June 1, 2006 [ June 1, 2004 ].

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 22, 2005.

TRD-200506066

Frank Woodall

Acting Executive Director

Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education

Proposed date of adoption: June 1, 2006

For further information, please call: (512) 936-7700


37 TAC §215.11

The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education (Commission) proposes an amendment to §215.11, concerning Training Provider Evaluations. A proposed amendment to subsections (c) and (d)(6) are for clarification on Training Provider Evaluations in order to better delineate the intent of the rule. Subsection (e) is amended to reflect the effective date for these changes.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will not be fiscal implications to state or local governments as a result of administering the section.

The Commission has determined that for the each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to large, small, or micro businesses as a result of the proposed section.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will be a positive benefit to the public by clarifying the intent of the rule.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five year the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to individuals as a result of the proposed section.

Comments may be submitted in writing to Mr. Frank Woodall, Acting Executive Director, Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education, 6330 Highway 290 East, Suite 200, Austin, TX 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1701, §1701.151 General Powers which authorized the Commission to promulgate rules for administration of this chapter. The rule amendment as proposed is in compliance with Texas Occupations Code §1701.254 Training Provider Evaluations.

No other code, article, or statute is affected by this proposal.

§215.11.Training Provider Evaluations.

(a) All training providers shall be evaluated periodically and randomly. Providers with deficiencies will be evaluated more frequently, as determined by the commission.

(b) All training providers shall submit a self-assessment report each state fiscal year other types of evaluation methods, including, but not limited to, on-site evaluations may be used.

(c) An evaluation of the training provider will be based upon the current evaluation method(s) used. The results of the evaluation will be forwarded to the chief administrator, training coordinator, advisory board chair [ members ] and other appropriate persons associated with the training provider.

(d) The commission uses the following information in assessing the performance of training providers:

(1) licensing examination results;

(2) reports from past evaluation records;

(3) self-assessment reports;

(4) reports and evaluations from students, law enforcement agencies, and citizens;

(5) commission records;

(6) course [ academy ] records;

(7) observations by commission staff;

(8) information used as risk assessment factors; and

(9) any other relevant information about performance and practices.

(e) The effective date of this section is June 1, 2006 [ March 1, 2001 ].

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 22, 2005.

TRD-200506067

Frank Woodall

Acting Executive Director

Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education

Proposed date of adoption: June 1, 2006

For further information, please call: (512) 936-7700


37 TAC §215.15

The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education (Commission) proposes an amendment to §215.15, concerning Enrollment Standards and Training Credit. A proposed amendment to this section is to clarify the intent of the rule by correcting grammar and delineating enrollment standards and training credit. Subsection (d) is amended to reflect the effective date for this change.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will not be fiscal implications to state or local governments as a result of administering the section.

The Commission has determined that for the each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to large, small, or micro businesses as a result of the proposed section.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will be a positive benefit to the public by clarifying the intent of the rule.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five year the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to individuals as a result of the proposed section.

Comments may be submitted in writing to Mr. Frank Woodall, Acting Executive Director, Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education, 6330 Highway 290 East, Suite 200, Austin, TX 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1701, §1701.151 General Powers which authorized the Commission to promulgate rules for administration of this chapter. The rule amendment as proposed is in compliance with Texas Occupations Code §1701.255 Enrollment Qualifications.

No other code, article, or statute is affected by this proposal.

§215.15.Enrollment Standards and Training Credit .

(a) In order for an individual to enroll in any basic licensing course that [ which ] provides instruction in defensive tactics, arrest procedures, firearms, or use of a motor vehicle for law enforcement purposes, the academy must have on file:

(1) written documentation that the person is currently licensed by the commission; or

(2) if the individual [ person ] is not licensed by the commission, documentation that the individual has been subjected to a search of local, state and national records to disclose any criminal record;

(A) is not currently charged with any criminal offense for which conviction would be a bar to licensure;

(B) community supervision history:

(i) has never been on court-ordered community supervision or probation for any criminal offense above the grade of a Class B misdemeanor or a Class B misdemeanor within the last ten years from the date of the court order; but

(ii) the commission may approve the application of an individual who received probation or court-ordered community supervision for a Class B misdemeanor at least five (5) years prior to enrollment if an agency administrator sufficiently demonstrates in writing with supporting documentation that mitigating circumstances exist with the case and with the individual applying for licensure, and that the public interest would be served by reducing the waiting period;

(C) conviction history:

(i) has never been convicted of an offense above the grade of a Class B misdemeanor or a Class B misdemeanor within the last ten years; but

(ii) the commission may approve the application of an individual who was convicted of a Class B misdemeanor at least five (5) years prior to enrollment if an agency administrator sufficiently demonstrates in writing with supporting documentation that mitigating circumstances exist with the case and with the individual applying for licensure, and that the public interest would be served by reducing the waiting period.

(D) For purposes of this section, the commission will construe any court ordered community supervision, probation, or conviction for a criminal offense to be its closest equivalent under the Texas Penal Code classification of offenses if the offense arose from:

(i) another penal provision of Texas law; or

(ii) a penal provision of any other state, federal, military or foreign jurisdiction.

(E) A classification of an offense as a felony at the time of conviction will never be changed because Texas law has changed or because the offense would not be a felony under current Texas law.

(F) has never been convicted of any family violence offense;

(G) is not prohibited by state or federal law from operating a motor vehicle;

(H) is not prohibited by state or federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition; and

(I) is a U.S. citizen.

(b) In order for an individual to enroll in any basic peace officer training program that [ which ] provides instruction in defensive tactics, arrest procedures, firearms, or use of a motor vehicle for law enforcement purposes, the academy must have on file:

(1) a high school diploma;

(2) a high school equivalency certificate and evidence of successful completion of [ has completed ] at least 12 hours from [ at ] an institution of higher education with at least a 2.0 grade point average on a 4.0 scale; or

(3) an honorable discharge from the armed forces of the United States after at least 24 months of active duty service;

(c) The enrollment standards established in this section do not preclude the academy licensee from establishing additional requirements or standards for enrollment in law enforcement training programs.

(d) The effective date of this section is June 1, 2006 [ June 1, 2004 ].

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 22, 2005.

TRD-200506068

Frank Woodall

Acting Executive Director

Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education

Proposed date of adoption: June 1, 2006

For further information, please call: (512) 936-7700


37 TAC §215.17

The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education (Commission) proposes an amendment to §215.17, concerning Distance Education. A proposed amendment to subsection (e) is making grammatical changes that will provide clarification with regard to distance education. Subsection (f) is amended to reflect the effective date for this change.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will not be fiscal implications to state or local governments as a result of administering the section.

The Commission has determined that for the each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to large, small, or micro businesses as a result of the proposed section.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will be a positive benefit to the public by clarifying the intent of the rule.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five year the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to individuals as a result of the proposed section.

Comments may be submitted in writing to Mr. Frank Woodall, Acting Executive Director, Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education, 6330 Highway 290 East, Suite 200, Austin, TX 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1701, §1701.151 General Powers which authorized the Commission to promulgate rules for administration of this chapter. The rule amendment as proposed is in compliance with Texas Occupations Code §1701.251 Training Programs; Instructors.

No other code, article, or statute is affected by this proposal.

§215.17.Distance Education.

(a) A distance education course may be conducted either by the commission or with the advanced approval of the commission.

(b) Training providers desiring commission approval for a distance education course must submit their request in accordance with the commission's Distance Education Guidelines. The commission may charge a cost recovery fee for reviewing these submissions.

(c) Each course will have one or more sponsors assigned, who shall be responsible both for the conduct of the course, and for proctoring any examination during the course.

(d) To receive credit for a distance education course, the student must, without the use of deceitful means, complete each required unit, and receives a passing grade on any examination, course work, or evaluation required by the lesson guide or learning objectives.

(e) The training provider should ensure that the student’s assigned work is corrected, graded, and reviewed by qualified instructors. Corrected assignments are returned to the student via [ , ] an exchange that [ which ] provides a personalized student-teacher relationship.

(f) The effective date of this section is June 1, 2006 [ March 1, 2002 ].

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 22, 2005.

TRD-200506069

Frank Woodall

Acting Executive Director

Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education

Proposed date of adoption: June 1, 2006

For further information, please call: (512) 936-7700


Chapter 217. LICENSING REQUIREMENTS

37 TAC §217.7

The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education (Commission) proposes an amendment to §217.7, concerning Reporting the Appointment and Termination of a Licensee. A proposed amendment to subsections (a), (b), and (g) are a result of amendments to the Texas Occupations Code §1701.451. Pre-employment Request for Employment Termination Report and Submission of Background Check Conformation Form, §1701.452. Employment Termination Report, and §1701.4525 Request for Correction of Report; Administrative Penalty; Hearing; Appeal. These changes require chief administrators to request records from the Commission as part of the background check confirmation, to include F-5 documentation. These changes also require chief administrators of a law enforcement agency to document an explanation of circumstances on the F-5 form. This new legislation action allows an appeal process to a licensee who may contest the reasons for termination and/or resignation stated on the F-5. Subsection (i) is amended to reflect the effective date for these changes.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will be significant fiscal implications to state or local governments as a result of administering the section. Although the Texas Occupations Code, §1701.4525(b) states that the Commission may assess administrative penalty, the Commission does not have statutory authority to assess penalties.

The Commission has determined that for the each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to large, small, or micro businesses as a result of the proposed section.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed would be in effect there will a positive benefit to the public by requiring chief administrators to conduct thorough background checks on applicants and to report accurately on the F-5 Employment Termination Report.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five year the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to individuals as a result of the proposed section.

Comments may be submitted in writing to Mr. Frank Woodall, Acting Executive Director, Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education, 6330 Highway 290 East, Suite 200, Austin, TX 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1701, §1701.151 General Powers which authorized the Commission to promulgate rules for administration of this chapter. The rule amendment as proposed is in compliance with Texas Occupations Code §1701.451 Pre-employment Request for Employment Termination Report, and Submission of Background Check Confirmation Form.

No other code, article, or statute is affected by this proposal.

§217.7.Reporting the Appointment and Termination of a Licensee.

(a) Before hiring or appointing a licensee, an agency shall contact the commission, electronically or in writing, to comply with the reporting requirements of Texas Occupations Code §1701.451. [ to determine whether the commission has employment history records on that individual. If employment history records exist, then the agency shall contact the previous employing agency(ies) in writing to request employment information. ]

(b) A commission member or other individual may not release the contents of a report or statement submitted unless the request meets the requirements of Subchapter J, Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1701. The commission is not liable for civil damages for providing information contained in a report or statement maintained by the commission under Subchapter J if the commission released the information as prescribed by Subchapter J. [ In order to receive information and/or a copy of the termination form from employment history records regarding the reasons for resignation or termination, the inquiring agency must request the information in writing on the agency's letterhead. The request must be signed by the agency chief administrator or designee. The request must be accompanied by a commission form that authorizes release of that information. This form must be signed and sworn to by the individual who is the subject of the report. ]

(c) An agency that appoints an individual who already holds a valid, active license appropriate to that position must notify the commission of such appointment not later than 30 days after the date of appointment. The appointing agency must have on file documentation that the licensee is compliant with weapons qualification according to §217.21 within the last 12 months. This notification must be made in the currently prescribed commission format that reports appointment. This format must be completed, and filed with the commission by the agency's chief administrator.

(d) Before appointing a licensee whose license has expired, an agency shall ensure that the individual meets the current minimum standards for licensure.

(e) If the appointment is made after a 180-day break in service, the agency must have the following on file and readily accessible to the commission:

(1) a new criminal history check by name, sex, race and date of birth from both TCIC and NCIC;

(2) a new declaration of psychological and emotional health;

(3) a new declaration of lack of any drug dependency or illegal drug use; and

(4) one completed applicant fingerprint card or, pending receipt of such card, an original sworn, notarized affidavit by the applicant of his or her complete criminal history; such affidavit to be maintained by the agency while awaiting the return of completed applicant fingerprint card; and

(5) for peace officers, weapons qualification according to §217.21 within the last 12 months.

(f) An agency must retain records kept under this section for a minimum of five years after the licensee's termination date with that agency. The records must be maintained in a format readily accessible to the commission.

(g) When an individual licensed by the commission resigns from appointment or employment with an agency or if an individual's appointment or employment is terminated for any reason, the agency shall submit a report to the commission in the currently prescribed commission format that reports resignation or termination, including all emergency telecommunicators. The report shall be submitted within 30 days following the date of resignation or termination. The report shall include an explanation of the circumstances under which the individual resigned, [ or ] was terminated, or other and one of the following designations: retired, honorably discharged, dishonorably discharged, generally discharged, killed in the line of duty, died, or disabled. The agency shall provide the individual who is the subject of the report a copy of the report. The individual may submit a petition [ written statement ] to the commission to contest the information included [ or explain any matters contained ] in the report not later than the 30th day after they receive a copy of the report. They must also submit a copy of the petition to the law enforcement agency .

(h) A report or statement submitted under this section is exempt from disclosure under the Public Information Act, Chapter 552, Government Code, unless the individual resigned or was terminated due to substantiated incidents of excessive force or violations of the law other than traffic offenses, and is subject to subpoena only in a judicial proceeding.

(i) The effective date of this section is June 1, 2006 [ June 1, 2004 ].

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 22, 2005.

TRD-200506077

Frank Woodall

Acting Executive Director

Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education

Proposed date of adoption: June 1, 2006

For further information, please call: (512) 936-7700


37 TAC §217.8

The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education (Commission) proposes new §217.8, concerning Contesting an Employment Termination Report. Adding new §217.8 is in accordance with Texas Occupations Code §1701.452. This amended chapter adds new requirements, responsibilities, and liability for chief administrators to properly document the reason for the departure of a licensee on the F-5 form. This section allows for an appeal process for licensees who disagree with the reasons documented on their respective F-5.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will not be fiscal implications to state or local governments as a result of administering the section because the actions described are consistent with procedures currently in place at the Commission.

The Commission has determined that for the each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to large, small, or micro businesses as a result of the proposed section.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed would be in effect there will be a positive benefit to the public by holding law enforcement agencies responsible to by providing good information to prospective hiring law enforcement agency administrators of a licensee.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five year the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to individuals as a result of the proposed section.

Comments may be submitted in writing to Mr. Frank Woodall, Acting Executive Director, Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education, 6330 Highway 290 East, Suite 200, Austin, TX 78723.

The new rule is proposed under Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1701, §1701.151 General Powers which authorized the Commission to promulgate rules for administration of this chapter. The new rule as proposed is in compliance with Texas Occupations Code §1701.4525 Request for Correction of Report; Administrative Penalty; Hearing; Appeal.

No other code, article, or statute is affected by this proposal.

§217.8.Contesting an Employment Termination Report.

(a) A person who is the subject of an employment termination report described in §217.7(g) of this subchapter is entitled to file a petition contesting information included in the employment termination report. The petition for correction of the report must be filed with the executive director and a copy must be served on the law enforcement agency.

(b) A petition described in subsection (a) of this section must be received by the executive director not later than the 30th day after the person receives a copy of the report, and must be accompanied by any evidence offered by the person in support of the requested correction.

(c) The law enforcement agency may submit rebutting evidence not later than the 20th day after the agency receives a copy of the petition.

(d) Upon review of the petition and any rebutting evidence offered by the law enforcement agency, the executive director may either:

(1) recommend that the commission order the chief administrative officer of the law enforcement agency to correct the report; or

(2) refer the dispute to the State Office of Administrative Hearings.

(e) A proceeding conducted pursuant to subsection (d)(2) of this section is a contested case under Chapter 2001, Government Code. The parties to the proceeding shall be the person contesting the employment termination report, the chief administrative officer of the law enforcement agency, and the executive director. The person contesting the employment termination report shall have the burden of proof by a preponderance of the evidence. Following the contested case hearing, the administrative law judge shall issue a proposal for decision to the commission.

(f) Any party to a proceeding described in subsection (e) of this section may file exceptions to the administrative law judge’s proposal for decision in accordance with §223.11(b) of this title.

(g) A final order issued by the commission under subsection (d)(1) of this section, or after a hearing described in subsection (e) of this section is enforceable by the commission pursuant to Chapter 1701, Texas Occupations Code and Chapter 2001, Government Code.

(h) A final order issued by the commission under subsection (d)(1) of this section, or after a hearing described in subsection (e) of this section is appealable in accordance with Chapter 2001, Government Code.

(i) A chief administrative officer of a law enforcement agency who fails to comply with a final order issued by the commission under subsection (d)(1) of this section, or after a hearing described in subsection (e) of this section is subject to disciplinary action pursuant to Chapter 1701, Texas Occupations Code, and Chapter 223 of this title.

(j) The effective date of this section is June 1, 2006.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 22, 2005.

TRD-200506075

Frank Woodall

Acting Executive Director

Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education

Proposed date of adoption: June 1, 2006

For further information, please call: (512) 936-7700


37 TAC §217.9

The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education (Commission) proposes an amendment to §217.9, concerning Continuing Education Credit for Licensees. A proposed amendment to subsection (b) is amended to include new paragraph (7) the Peace Officers System for Education and Internet Training (POSEIT) to the list of items for which credit may be refused if the course has been completed within the current training unit. Additionally, subsection (b) is amended by adding new paragraph (8) that includes any distance education course to the list of items that may be refused credit if the item has been completed within the current training unit. Subsection (d) is amended to reflect the effective date for these changes.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will not be fiscal implications to state or local governments as a result of administering the section.

The Commission has determined that for the each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to large, small, or micro businesses as a result of the proposed section.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed would be in effect there will be a positive benefit to the public by ensuring that officers take varied training.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five year the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to individuals as a result of the proposed section.

Comments may be submitted in writing to Mr. Frank Woodall, Acting Executive Director, Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education, 6330 Highway 290 East, Suite 200, Austin, TX 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1701, §1701.151 General Powers which authorized the Commission to promulgate rules for administration of this chapter. The rule amendment as proposed is in compliance with Texas Occupations Code §1701.351 Continuing Education Required for Peace Officers.

No other code, article, or statute is affected by this proposal.

§217.9.Continuing Education Credit for Licensees.

(a) A continuing education course is any training course that is recognized by the commission, specifically:

(1) legislatively required continuing education curricula and learning objectives developed by the commission:

(2) training in excess of basic licensing course requirements;

(3) training courses consistent with assigned duties; or

(4) training not included in a basic licensing course.

(b) The commission may refuse credit for:

(1) a course, which does not contain a final examination or other skills test, if appropriate, as determined by the training provider;

(2) annual firearms proficiency;

(3) an out of state course not approved by that state's POST;

(4) training that fails to meet any commission established length and published learning objectives;

(5) an instructor claiming credit for a basic licensing course or more than one presentation of a non-licensing course by an instructor, per 24 month unit of a training cycle; or

(6) course(s) claimed by deceitful means;

(7) courses taken two or more times on the Peace Officer System for Education and Internet Training (POSEIT) system within one training unit.

(8) courses provided by the same training provider and taken two or more times within one training unit.

(c) The training provider or agency must report to the commission and keep on file in a format readily accessible to the commission, a copy of all continuing education course training reports.

(d) The effective date of this section is June 1, 2006 [ June 1, 2004 ].

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 22, 2005.

TRD-200506078

Frank Woodall

Acting Executive Director

Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education

Proposed date of adoption: June 1, 2006

For further information, please call: (512) 936-7700


37 TAC §217.11

The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education (Commission) proposes an amendment to §217.11, concerning Legislatively Required Continuing Education for Licensees. A proposed amendment to subsection (e)(2) adds new language and amends current language to reflect changes in Texas Occupations Code §1701.354(d). Subsection (f) is amended by changing the notification method to match the law. Subsections (g) and (h) are amended and will add new language due to amended legislation of the Texas Occupations Code, §1701.353(b), which requires the Commission to seek disciplinary action rather than expiration of license. Subsections (j) and (k) are deleted because they have expired. Subsection (l) is added here and was removed from §217.17. Subsection (m) is amended to reflect the effective date for these changes.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will be some fiscal implications as a result of administering the section. The Commission will be charged with conducting additional administrative hearings as a result of this amendment.

The Commission has determined that for the each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to large, small, or micro businesses as a result of the proposed section.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed would be in effect there will be a positive benefit to the public by changing the wording to read as it is stated in the law.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five year the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to individuals as a result of the proposed section.

Comments may be submitted in writing to Mr. Frank Woodall, Acting Executive Director, Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education, 6330 U.S. 290 East, Austin, TX 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1701, §1701.151 General Powers which authorized the Commission to promulgate rules for administration of this chapter. The rule amendment as proposed is in compliance with Texas Occupations Code §§1701.251 Training Programs; Instructors, 1701.352 Continuing Education Programs, 1701.353(B) Continuing Education Procedures, and 1701.354 Continuing Education for Constables and Deputy Constables.

No other code, article, or statute is affected by this proposal.

§217.11.Legislatively Required Continuing Education for Licensees.

(a) Each agency that appoints or employs peace officers, reserve law enforcement officers, jailers, or public security officers shall provide each peace officer, reserve law enforcement officer, jailer, or public security officer it appoints or employs a continuing education program at least once every 24 month unit of a training cycle.

(b) The legislatively required continuing education program for individuals licensed as peace officers shall consist of 40 hours of training every 24 month unit of a training cycle. This rule does not limit the number of hours of continuing education an agency may provide to each peace officer, reserve law enforcement officer, jailer, or public security officer it appoints or employs.

(c) Part of the legislatively required peace officer training must include the curricula and learning objectives developed by the commission, to include:

(1) civil rights, racial sensitivity, and cultural diversity during each current training cycle;

(2) the recognition and documentation of cases that involve child abuse or neglect, family violence, sexual assault, issues concerning sex offender characteristics during each current training cycle. If an agency chief administrator determines these subjects to be inconsistent with the peace officer's assigned duties, the chief administrator may substitute other training determined to be consistent with the officer's assigned duties and report the substitution to the commission; and

(3) supervision issues for each peace officer appointed to their first supervisory position, this training must be completed within 24 months following the date of appointment as a supervisor.

(d) Individuals licensed as reserve law enforcement officers, jailers, or public security officers shall meet the requirements in subsection (c)(1) of this section.

(e) Each constable and deputy constable shall also complete a 20 hour course of training in civil process during each current training cycle. The commission may waive the requirement for civil process training if : [ the constable submits a written request for a waiver, because of hardship and ] the commission determines that a hardship exists.

(1) for a deputy constable, if a constable requests a waiver for the deputy constable based on a representation that the deputy constable's duty assignment does not involve civil process responsibilities; or

(2) the deputy constable submits a written request for a waiver because of hardship and the commission determines that a hardship exists.

(f) The commission shall provide adequate notice to agencies and licensees of impending non-compliance with the legislatively required continuing education. [ Such notice will be provided not later than six months prior to the expiration of the current training cycle. ]

(g) The chief administrator of an agency that has licensees who are in non-compliance shall, within 30 days of receipt of notice of non-compliance, submit a report to the commission explaining the reasons for such non-compliance.

(h) [ (g) ] The commission may suspend or deny renewal of a license for failure to complete the legislatively required continuing education program at least once every training unit [ cycle ].

(i) [ (h) ] The commission may take action against a licensee for failure to complete the required training in either or both of the 24 month units within a training cycle.

(j) [ (i) ] Individuals licensed as peace officers shall complete the legislatively required continuing education program required under this section beginning in the first complete 24 month unit immediately following the date of licensing.

[ (j) Individuals licensed as peace officers shall attend a course, developed by the commission, on asset forfeiture no later than September 1, 2002.]

[ (k) Individuals licensed as peace officers shall attend a course, developed by the commission, on racial profiling no later than September 1, 2003.]

(k) [ (l) ] All peace officers must meet all continuing education requirements except where exempt by law.

(l) Licensees who have met the current legislatively required continuing education will have their license(s) automatically renewed on the last day of the training unit.

(m) The effective date of this section is June 1, 2006 [ March 1, 2002 ].

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 22, 2005.

TRD-200506079

Frank Woodall

Acting Executive Director

Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education

Proposed date of adoption: June 1, 2006

For further information, please call: (512) 936-7700


37 TAC §217.17

(Editor's note: The text of the following section proposed for repeal will not be published. The section may be examined in the offices of the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education or in the Texas Register office, Room 245, James Earl Rudder Building, 1019 Brazos Street, Austin.)

The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education (Commission) proposes the repeal of §217.17, concerning License Renewal. This section is deleted due to change in law. During the 79th Legislature, Regular Session, House Bill 1438 amended Section 1701.353(b) and charges the Commission to request a report from an employing agency of a licensee who is non-compliant with continuing education requirements. This amendment also requires the Commission to contact licensee by certified mail if records indicate that they are in noncompliance. This change grants a licensee a 60-day extension to obtain the required training or request an administrative hearing if the licensee claims that mitigating circumstances exist or if the licensee’s employing agency did not provide the opportunity to attend required training course. This change eliminates this section and expiration of license.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will be some fiscal implications as a result of administering the section. The Commission will be charged with conducting additional administrative hearings as a result of the proposed section.

The Commission has determined that for the each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to large, small, or micro businesses as a result of the proposed section.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed would be in effect there will be a positive benefit to the public by changing the wording to read as it is stated in the law.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five year the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to individuals as a result of the proposed section.

Comments may be submitted in writing to Mr. Frank Woodall, Acting Executive Director, Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education, 6330 Highway 290 East, Suite 200, Austin, TX 78723.

The repeal is proposed under Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1701, §1701.151 General Powers which authorized the Commission to promulgate rules for administration of this chapter. The repeal as proposed is in compliance with Texas Occupations Code §1701.353 Continuing Education Procedures.

No other code, article, or statute is affected by this proposal.

§217.17.Active License Renewal.

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 22, 2005.

TRD-200506076

Frank Woodall

Acting Executive Director

Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education

Proposed date of adoption: June 1, 2006

For further information, please call: (512) 936-7700


37 TAC §217.19

The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education (Commission) proposes an amendment to §217.19, concerning Reactivation of a License. A proposed amendment to subsection (a) is to clean up language used to reactivate a license. Subsections (b) and (c) are deleted because they do not belong in this section as these individuals have never held a license. Subsections (d) - (h) are changed to keep alphabetical order. Subsection (f) is amended to reflect the effective date for these changes.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no fiscal implications as a result of administering the section.

The Commission has determined that for the each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to large, small, or micro businesses as a result of the proposed section.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed would be in effect there will be a positive benefit to the public by changing the wording to clarify the rule.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five year the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to individuals as a result of the proposed section.

Comments may be submitted in writing to Mr. Frank Woodall, Acting Executive Director, Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education, 6330 Highway 290 East, Suite 200, Austin, TX 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1701, §1701.151 General Powers which authorized the Commission to promulgate rules for administration of this chapter. The rule amendment as proposed is in compliance with Texas Occupations Code §1701.316 Reactivation of Peace Officer License.

No other code, article, or statute is affected by this proposal.

§217.19.Reactivation of a License.

(a) The commission will place all licenses in an inactive status when the licensee has not [ neither ] been reported to the commission as appointed for more than two years unless the licensee has met and continues to meet the continuing education required by §217.11 of this chapter. [ after: ]

[ (1) the last report of termination, or]

[ (2) the date of last reactivation, nor ]

[ (3) met all the continuing education requirements.]

[ (b) Individuals with basic licensure training over two years old must meet the requirements of (g) before they may be appointed.]

[ (c) Individuals with basic licensure examination results over two years old must meet the requirements of (g) before they may be appointed.]

(b) [ (d) ] The holder of an inactive license is unlicensed for purposes of these sections and the Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1701.

(c) [ (e) ] This section includes any permanent peace officer qualification certificate with an effective date before September 1, 1981.

(d) [ (f) ] This section includes any jailer licenses issued after March 1, 2001.

(e) [ (g) ] Before individuals [ with inactive licenses ] may be appointed they must:

(1) meet the current licensing standards, with successful completion of a basic licensing course current at the time of initial licensure; fulfilling this requirement;

(2) successfully complete the legislatively required continuing education for the current training unit [ cycle ];

(3) make application and submit any required fee(s) for an endorsement in the format currently prescribed by the commission;

(4) obtain an endorsement, issued by the commission, giving the individual eligibility to take the required licensing examination; and

(5) meet the requirements of §217.3 of this chapter ; and

(6) pass the licensing examination for the license to be reactivated. After three failures, or if the endorsement expires, the individual must re-qualify by repeating the entire training course for the license sought.

(f)

[ (h) ] The effective date of this section is June 1, 2006 [ June 1, 2004 ].

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 22, 2005.

TRD-200506080

Frank Woodall

Acting Executive Director

Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education

Proposed date of adoption: June 1, 2006

For further information, please call: (512) 936-7700


Chapter 219. PRELICENSING AND REACTIVATION COURSES, TESTS, AND ENDORSEMENTS

37 TAC §219.1

The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education (Commission) proposes an amendment to §219.1, concerning Eligibility to Take State Examinations. Proposed amendments to subsection (b)(2) is to clarify out of state officers that must meet our definition of peace officer. Subsection (b)(3) was added to include exam results that are over two years old and never appointed. Amendments to subsections (i) and (j) are for clarification. Subsection (k) is amended to reflect the effective date for these changes.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will not be fiscal implications to state or local governments as a result of administering the section.

The Commission has determined that for the each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to large, small, or micro businesses as a result of the proposed section.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will a positive benefit to the public by better identifying which individuals may apply to test.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five year the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to individuals as a result of the proposed section.

Comments may be submitted in writing to Mr. Frank Woodall, Acting Executive Director, Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education, 6330 Highway 290 East, Suite 200, Austin, TX 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1701, §1701.151 General Powers which authorized the Commission to promulgate rules for administration of this chapter. The rule amendment as proposed is in compliance with Texas Occupations Code §1701.304 Examination.

No other code, article, or statute is affected by this proposal.

§219.1.Eligibility to Take State Examinations.

(a) To be eligible to take a state licensing examination, a student must have a valid endorsement.

(b) A valid endorsement is based on:

(1) a previously completed basic licensing course , [ ; or ]

(2) out of state training , licensing, or certification as a peace officer; or [ . ]

(3) an expired examination result; over two years old.

(c) A valid endorsement shall:

(1) be in the approved commission format;

(2) be a completed original document bearing all required signatures,

(3) state that the examinee has met the current minimum training standards appropriate to the license sought; and

(4) include a date of issue and an expiration date.

(d) For an endorsement to be or remain valid:

(1) it must not be issued in error or based on false or incorrect information; specifically, the applicant must meet the current enrollment standards; or if previously licensed, have met the enrollment standards at initial licensure; and

(2) it must be presented before its expiration date.

(e) An endorsement to take an examination is issued by a training coordinator, the registrar of a licensed academic alternative provider, the executive director of the commission, or a person authorized by the executive director. Duplicate endorsements may only be issued by the executive director of the commission.

(f) In order to issue the endorsement [ of eligibility ], the person issuing such an endorsement, other than a commission employee, must have on file for the person to whom it is issued, written documentation of successful completion of the basic licensing course for the license sought; and

(1) written documentation that the person to whom it is issued was previously licensed by the commission, or

(2) if the person is not currently licensed by the commission, written documentation that the applicant meets the current enrollment standards.

(g) In order to receive an endorsement from the commission, individuals must meet all current requirements, to include submitting any required application currently prescribed by the commission, requested documentation, and any required fee.

(h) An examination may not be taken by an individual who already holds an active license or certificate to be awarded upon passing that examination.

(i) Once an initial endorsement is issued, an examinee will be allowed three opportunities to pass the examination while the examinee’s endorsement remains valid. After three failures or expiration of the endorsement, the examinee must re-qualify by repeating the entire training course for the license sought. If an attempt is invalidated for any reason, except for a commission error, that attempt will count as one of the three opportunities.

(j) Once an initial endorsement from an academic alternative provider expires after three failures or expiration of the endorsement [ from either date or failure, ] individuals will be required to re-qualify by completing the standard coursework for the license sought.

(k) The effective date of this section is June 1, 2006 [ June 1, 2004 ].

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 22, 2005.

TRD-200506070

Frank Woodall

Acting Executive Director

Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education

Proposed date of adoption: June 1, 2006

For further information, please call: (512) 936-7700


37 TAC §219.5

The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education (Commission) proposes an amendment to §219.5, concerning Examinee Requirements. A proposed amendment to subsection (a)(2) requires a federal or state issued photo ID to take a licensing exam. Subsection (c) is amended to reflect the effective date for these changes.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will not be fiscal implications to state or local governments as a result of administering the section.

The Commission has determined that for the each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to large, small, or micro businesses as a result of the proposed section.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will be a positive benefit to the public by insuring the person taking the test has a valid ID.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five year the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to individuals as a result of the proposed section.

Comments may be submitted in writing to Mr. Frank Woodall, Acting Executive Director, Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education, 6330 Highway 290 East, Suite 200, Austin, TX 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1701, §1701.151 General Powers which authorized the Commission to promulgate rules for administration of this chapter. The rule amendment as proposed is in compliance with Texas Occupations Code §1701.304 Examination.

No other code, article, or statute is affected by this proposal.

§219.5.Examinee Requirements.

(a) To be eligible to sit for an examination, an examinee must:

(1) possess and display at the examination site a valid endorsement for the specific type of examination sought;

(2) Bring to the examination site and display upon request [ some ] identification issued by the state or federal government with the examinee’s [ card which contains a ] photograph;

(3) Report on time;

(4) Not disrupt the examination;

(5) Comply with all the written and verbal instructions of the proctor; and

(6) Shall not:

(A) bring into the examination room any books, notes, or other written material related to the content of the examination;

(B) refer to, use, or possess any such written material in the examination room;

(C) bring into the examination room any cellular phones, pagers, or other such electronic devices;

(D) give or receive answers or communicate in any manner with another examinee during the examination;

(E) communicate any of the content of an examination to another at any time;

(F) steal, copy, or in any way reproduce any part of the examination;

(G) engage in any deceptive or fraudulent act to gain admission;

(H) engage in any deceptive or fraudulent act during or after an examination; or

(I) solicit, encourage, direct, assist or aid another person to violate any provision of this section or to compromise the integrity of the examination.

(b) The commission may deny or revoke any license or certificate held by a person who violates any of the provision of this section. The commission shall file a criminal complaint against any individual who steals or attempts to steal any portion of the examination, or who engages in any fraudulent act relating to the examination process.

(c) The effective date of this section is June 1, 2006 [ June 1, 2004 ].

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 22, 2005.

TRD-200506071

Frank Woodall

Acting Executive Director

Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education

Proposed date of adoption: June 1, 2006

For further information, please call: (512) 936-7700


Chapter 221. PROFICIENCY CERTIFICATES AND OTHER POST-BASIC LICENSES

37 TAC §221.9

The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education (Commission) proposes an amendment to §221.9, concerning Standardized Field Sobriety Testing Proficiency (SFST). A proposed amendment to subsection (a) is amended by changing the proficiency certificate to a practitioner certificate and removes the 35-test case requirement, which is not part of the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) curriculum. These changes meet or exceed the minimum standards established by the Commission. Subsection (b) is amended to reflect the effective date for these changes.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will not be fiscal implications to state or local governments as a result of administering the section.

The Commission has determined that for the each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to large, small, or micro businesses as a result of the proposed section.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will be a positive benefit to the public by allowing individuals that complete that NHTSA SFST practitioner curriculum training that meets or exceeds the minimum standards established by the Commission, to receive this proficiency certificate. This would also allow the Commission to comply with verbiage set out in Emerson v. State.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five year the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to individuals as a result of the proposed section.

Comments may be submitted in writing to Mr. Frank Woodall, Acting Executive Director, Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education, 6330 Highway 290 East, Suite 200, Austin, TX 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1701, §1701.151 General Powers which authorized the Commission to promulgate rules for administration of this chapter. The rule amendment as proposed is in compliance with Texas Occupations Code §1701.402 Proficiency Certificates.

No other code, article, or statute is affected by this proposal.

§221.9.Standardized Field Sobriety Testing Practitioner [ Proficiency ] (SFST).

(a) To qualify for a standardized field sobriety testing practitioner [ proficiency ] certificate, an applicant must meet all proficiency requirements including successful completion of the current National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) approved SFST Practitioner Course [ and 35 field test evaluations ] as reported by an [ the ] approved training provider.

(b) The effective date of this section is June 1, 2006 [ March 1, 2001 ].

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 22, 2005.

TRD-200506072

Frank Woodall

Acting Executive Director

Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education

Proposed date of adoption: June 1, 2006

For further information, please call: (512) 936-7700


37 TAC §221.13

The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education (Commission) proposes an amendment to §221.13, concerning Emergency Telecommunications Proficiency. A proposed amendment to subsection (a) is amended to require TCIC/NCIC for Full Access Operators and TLETS/NLETS within the first year of experience. Subsection (b)(3) is amended to require 160 hours of continuing education training. Subsection (b)(4)(D) is amended by removing TCIC/NCIC for Full Access Operators and TLETS/NLETS as intermediate proficiency requirements. Subsection (d) is amended to reflect the effective date for these changes.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will not be fiscal implications to state or local governments as a result of administering the section.

The Commission has determined that for the each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to large, small, or micro businesses as a result of the proposed section.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will be a positive benefit to the public by ensuring that all emergency telecommunication operators are in compliance with mandated requirements for full access to TCIC/NCIC and TLETS/NLETS as set out in federal regulations allowing individuals who meet or exceed the minimum standards established by the Commission to receive this proficiency certificate. The movement of the TCIC/NCIC for Full Access Operators and TLETS/NLETS training to the basic level increases the training received by 40 hours. Telecommunicators completing the required basic courses will have received 160 hours of training. This necessitates an increase in the hours required for intermediate certification to at least equal the hours obtained earning the basic certificate. Since changes to this rule are the result of current required training, there is no increase in costs to affected agencies.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five year the section as proposed will be in effect, there will be no anticipated economic cost to individuals as a result of the proposed section.

Comments may be submitted in writing to Mr. Frank Woodall, Acting Executive Director, Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education, 6330 Highway 290 East, Suite 200, Austin, TX 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1701, §1701.151 General Powers which authorized the Commission to promulgate rules for administration of this chapter. The rule amendment as proposed is in compliance with Texas Occupations Code §1701.404 Telecommunicators.

No other code, article, or statute is affected by this proposal.

§221.13.Emergency Telecommunications Proficiency.

(a) To qualify for a basic telecommunications proficiency certificate, an applicant must meet all proficiency requirements including:

(1) successful completion of a 40-hour course developed or approved by the commission;

(2) successful completion of TLETS/NLETS and TCIC/NCIC Basic Procedures, or TCIC/NCIC for Full Access Operators and TLETS/NLETS Basic Operator’s Course as established by federal regulations;

(3) [ (2) ] successful completion of a departmental field training course; and

(4) [ (3) ] one year of experience in public safety telecommunications

(b) To qualify for an intermediate telecommunications proficiency certificate, an applicant must meet all proficiency requirements including:

(1) basic telecommunications certification;

(2) at least two years experience in public safety telecommunications;

(3) 160 [ 120 ] hours of training; and

(4) if the basic telecommunications certificate was issued or qualified for on or after January 1, 2000, successful completion of required courses as specified by the commission, which include:

(A) Cultural Diversity , [ ; ]

(B) Ethics for Law Enforcement , [ ; ]

(C) Crisis Communications ; and [ ; ]

[ (D) TCIC/NCIC for Full Access Operators; NLETS/TLETS; or Criminal Law; and]

(D) [ (E) ] Spanish for Law Enforcement.

(c) To qualify for an advanced telecommunications proficiency certificate, an applicant must meet all proficiency requirements including:

(1) intermediate telecommunications certificate;

(2) at least four years experience in public safety telecommunications; and

(3) 240 training hours.

(d) The effective date of this section is June 1, 2006 [ March 1, 2004 ].

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 22, 2005.

TRD-200506073

Frank Woodall

Acting Executive Director

Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education

Proposed date of adoption: June 1, 2006

For further information, please call: (512) 936-7700


37 TAC §221.19

The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education (Commission) proposes an amendment to §221.19, concerning Firearms Instructor Proficiency. Subsection (b) is amended to reflect the effective date for these changes.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will not be fiscal implications to state or local governments as a result of administering the section.

The Commission has determined that for the each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to large, small, or micro businesses as a result of the proposed section.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five years the section as proposed will be in effect there will be a positive benefit to the public by allowing individuals with comparable training that meets or exceeds the minimum standards established by the Commission to receive this proficiency certificate.

The Commission has determined that for each year of the first five year the section as proposed will be in effect there will be no anticipated economic cost to individuals as a result of the proposed section.

Comments may be submitted in writing to Mr. Frank Woodall, Acting Executive Director, Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education, 6330 Highway 290 East, Suite 200, Austin, TX 78723.

The amendment is proposed under Texas Occupations Code, Chapter 1701, §1701.151 General Powers which authorized the Commission to promulgate rules for administration of this chapter. The rule amendment as proposed is in compliance with Texas Occupations Code §1701.402 Proficiency Certificates.

No other code, article, or statute is affected by this proposal.

§221.19.Firearms Instructor Proficiency.

(a) To qualify for a firearms instructor proficiency certificate, an applicant must meet all proficiency requirements including:

(1) at least three years’ experience as a licensee or a firearms instructor;

(2) holds a current instructor license or certificate issued by the commission; and

(3) successful completion of the commission’s firearms instructor course, or a firearms instructor course that meets or exceeds the minimum standards established and approved by the commission.

(b) The effective date of this section is June 1, 2006 [ Jamuary 1, 2005 ].

This agency hereby certifies that the proposal has been reviewed by legal counsel and found to be within the agency's legal authority to adopt.

Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 22, 2005.

TRD-200506074

Frank Woodall

Acting Executive Director

Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education

Proposed date of adoption: June 1, 2006

For further information, please call: (512) 936-7700