Your absolutly right! Most people don't realize that the law in Texas states the officer MAY arrest, not SHALL arrest (like for a warrant)
One of the issues with current officer discretion is the confusion caused by departmental policies. This bill is SUPPOSED to clear that up and place it solely in the hands of the officer.
The other thing that is positive that comes from the bill is, there are directives to expidite an appearance before an officer of the court in no less than 48 hrs.
Also the magistrate is directed to release the accused on personal bond, unless just cause can be shown.
I've recieved so many emails from people that think or have heard that this bill means there's just a ticket if they get caught with pot.

What I'm waiting to see is what happens when a person isn't brought before the judge within 48 hrs. Will it be grounds for dismissal?
DFW NORML Reviewed by DFW NORML on . HB 2391: The facts. There's seems to be alot of misinformation about the new bill that takes effect on Sept. 1st 2007 We are concerned that people will be lured into a false sense of security. So please heed the following warnings: * This does nothing to change sentencing. * It only applies if the alleged offence occurs in the same county as the accused resides. * The officer still has the option to arrest. ( As a side-note, in Texas the oficer can arrest you for traffic violations, so ALWAYS Rating: 5