Gregg County approves HB 33 memorandum of understanding with Longview ISD on school safety

Gregg County Commissioners Court voted Feb. 10, 2026, to approve a memorandum of understanding between the Gregg County Sheriff’s Office and Longview Independent School District designed to govern public safety operations under House Bill 33.

The agreement, presented under Item 11, was described by the sheriff’s office representative as the county’s implementation of the HB 33–mandated MOU with the state. The presenter recognized Ben Kemper, "chief of district safety," saying he will be licensed and "become the chief of police for Longview," and asked the court to approve the document.

The court approved the MOU by voice vote after a motion by Commissioner McKinney and a second by Commissioner Wingo. The vote was recorded in the minutes as in favor; no individual roll-call tally was given on the record.

Why it matters: HB 33 requires certain school-safety coordination measures and local memoranda between law enforcement and school districts; the MOU outlines how Gregg County and Longview ISD will coordinate response and operational responsibilities. The presenter said the agreement formalizes roles and procedures so schools and county law enforcement can "work together" if major incidents occur.

What was said: The sheriff’s office presenter told the court they had discussed the MOU previously and asked for approval at this meeting. He introduced Ben Kemper to the court, noting Kemper’s role as chief of district safety and his forthcoming licensing in order to serve as Longview’s police chief.

Next steps: The court authorized the county judge to execute any necessary documents. The transcript records no public opposition or formal amendments to the MOU during the meeting. The approval takes effect according to the terms of the MOU and applicable law.