Legislative Alert Feb. 2025

Georgia & Texas have new House Bills that need support

Two House Bills have started in the states of Georgia and Texas in the last few weeks. Pay close attention! These are both very crucial bills for the Code Enforcement and Animal Control professions.

Georgia HB 483

This Bill will add protections to Code Enforcement Officers. It adds "inspector of code enforcement" to the list of Public Safety Officers and makes it a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature to assault an inspector of code enforcement while inspector is acting within the course and scope of his or her employment or is performing official duties. Shall be punished by imprisonment of 3-20 years.

View here: https://legiscan.com/GA/bill/HB483/2025

Texas HB 3049

Designates Animal Control Officers as first responders.

View here: https://legiscan.com/TX/bill/HB3049/2025

Over the years, Code Enforcement and Animal Control have tried to accomplish several legislative goals. These include protections and designation as first responders. The Foundation is only aware of California Senate Bill 296 (2022) that requires agencies to develop minimum officer safety standards for Code Enforcement. It is a very difficult process to move bills to the finish line and require a lot of energy from lobbyists and professionals. The Foundation offers its support to help get these bills passed. Reach out to your local associations to learn more and support these bills.