What this is
Texas law HB 26 lets sheriffs and constables in big counties sign contracts to provide police services without approval from county leaders.
HB 26 is a new Texas law that changes how law enforcement works in big counties. The law applies to counties with more than 3.3 million people—this includes Harris County and the Houston area. It lets sheriffs and constables sign contracts to provide police services without needing approval from county leaders.
Under this law, a sheriff can make a contract with local governments, neighborhood groups, or landowners. The sheriff can provide police services to the areas these groups manage or own. A constable has the same power in their precinct, or police district. Both officers can decide what the contracts say and who provides the services.
Before this law, county commissioners could say no to these contracts. Now, the law says county commissioners cannot stop a sheriff or constable from signing these deals. The officers can decide on their own. This gives sheriffs and constables more freedom to work with different parts of the community.
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The law applies to anyone living in or visiting the areas covered by these contracts. The law took effect 91 days after the 2025 legislative session ended. It passed the Texas House with 88 yes votes and 49 no votes. The Texas Senate passed it with 21 yes votes and 5 no votes.
Key details
- Population threshold: More than 3.3 million people
- House vote: 88 yes, 49 no
- Senate vote: 21 yes, 5 no
- Effective date: 91 days after 2025 legislative session
About Texas Legislature
The Texas Legislature is the state legislature of Texas, consisting of the House of Representatives with 150 members and the Senate with 31 members. Meeting in regular session every two years, the legislature passes stat…
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How this affects households
Under $30,000
May see more police presence in your neighborhood if local groups contract for services, but won't directly pay for these contracts through your taxes.
$30,000-$60,000
Could benefit from increased police services if your neighborhood or local government contracts for them, without direct cost to your household budget.
$60,000-$100,000
No direct impact on your household finances, though you may notice changes in local law enforcement depending on where you live or work.
Over $100,000
Your neighborhood associations or business districts may now contract directly for extra police services, potentially improving security in areas you frequent.
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