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Panel advances bill giving constables authority to accept payment plans instead of seizing property
Summary
Substitute to SB313 would allow constables to accept payments in lieu of levying and seizing household goods as part of judgment collection, providing an alternative collection tool; committee passed the substitute unanimously.
Senator Todd Wyler introduced substitute language for SB313 that would permit constables to accept payments in lieu of seizing personal property when enforcing judgments, giving judgment creditors and constables another tool to recover debts without the cost and delay of seizing and selling household goods.
John Sint, a longtime constable who spoke in the hearing, said constables are certified peace officers who serve legal process and that the change would give constables discretion to set up payment plans rather than carry out costly seizure and storage operations. "It's just another tool in the toolbox," Sint said. He characterized constables as post-certified peace officers who are often used when sheriff resources have a backlog.
Juliana Bridal (testimony) told the committee she supported the bill as a fairness measure to protect family assets and avoid disproportionate harm during collection actions.
A technical substitute requested by stakeholder Spencer Stokes that clarifies collection authority was adopted during the hearing. Representative Shepherd moved the substitute and the committee passed SB313, substitute 1, with a favorable recommendation by voice vote; the transcript records unanimous passage.
The bill clarifies constable authorities and includes transition language about how constables coordinate with sheriffs when serving in different jurisdictions. Committee members asked no substantive follow-up questions; witnesses emphasized constables' training and statewide authority.
