Texas Senate Bill (SB) 22 has established a grant program to provide financial assistance to eligible counties for law enforcement and legal representation. This article outlines how to Apply For Grant Money under SB 22, eligibility requirements, allowable expenses, and funding amounts.
Understanding SB 22 Grant Eligibility
Eligibility for SB 22 grant funding is determined by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts using 2020 federal decennial census data. To qualify, counties or prosecutor’s offices must serve areas with populations of 300,000 or less. Specific eligibility criteria vary depending on the office seeking funding:
- Sheriff’s Offices: Counties are eligible even if they already meet minimum salary requirements but can only use funds for additional salaries, personnel, or equipment in that case. If a constable’s salary already exceeds the minimum, the county is ineligible for a constable salary increase.
- Constable’s Offices: Counties must contribute at least 75% of the funds required to meet the minimum annual salary for constables, with the remaining 25% potentially covered by the grant.
- Prosecutor’s Offices: For multi-county jurisdictions, the combined population of all counties is used to determine eligibility.
Applying for SB 22 Grant Funds
Eligible counties could apply for grant funds in January 2024. In subsequent years, applications will align with the start of each county’s fiscal year. The application process will be conducted online. Specific details on the application process can be found on the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts website.
SB 22 Grant Funding Amounts and Permitted Uses
SB 22 provides varying funding levels based on population size:
Sheriff’s Offices:
- Under 10,000 population: $250,000
- 10,000 to under 50,000 population: $350,000
- 50,000 to 300,000 population: $500,000
Constable’s Offices: Grant funds can cover up to 25% of the minimum annual salary of $45,000.
Prosecutor’s Offices:
- Under 10,000 population: $100,000
- 10,000 to under 50,000 population: $175,000
- 50,000 to 300,000 population: $275,000
Allowable Expenditures:
- Sheriff’s Offices: Minimum annual salaries ($75,000 for Sheriff; $45,000 for Deputies making motor vehicle stops; $40,000 for Jailers), salary increases, additional personnel, vehicles, firearms, and safety equipment. Minimum salaries must be met before other expenses. Benefits directly tied to salary increases are also permitted.
- Constable’s Offices: Increasing constable salaries to the $45,000 minimum, including associated benefit increases.
- Prosecutor’s Offices: Salary increases for assistant attorneys, investigators, victim assistance coordinators, hiring additional staff, and associated benefit increases.
Expenses Not Covered by SB 22 Grants
SB 22 grant funds cannot be used for:
- Software
- Salaries for employees outside of specified roles
- Contract employees
- Overtime or hazard pay
- Office equipment
Conclusion: Securing SB 22 Funding
SB 22 offers significant financial support to rural Texas counties. Understanding eligibility requirements, funding levels, and allowable expenses is crucial for successfully applying for grant money. Counties should consult the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts website and resources for detailed information and application procedures. By leveraging these funds, eligible entities can strengthen law enforcement and legal services in their communities.
