What is the primary legal authority governing private investigations in Texas?

The primary legal authority governing private investigations in Texas is found in the Texas Occupations Code and the Texas Private Security Act. This legislation outlines the licensing requirements, permissible activities, and regulatory framework for private investigators in the state. The Texas Private Security Act specifically serves to regulate private security businesses and professionals, including private investigators, ensuring that practitioners operate with a defined set of standards and under lawful conditions. This legal framework is critical for maintaining the integrity and professionalism of the investigative field in Texas, providing guidelines for both practitioners and clients.

The other options, such as the Texas Penal Code, Texas Education Code, and Texas Labor Code, do not specifically address the regulations and licensing necessary for private investigators. The Penal Code covers criminal laws, the Education Code relates to educational institutions and their governance, and the Labor Code pertains to employment and workplace rights. None of these provide the targeted regulatory context that is essential for private investigation work, making the Texas Occupations Code and the Texas Private Security Act the correct reference for understanding the legal landscape for private investigators in Texas.