Relating to sexually violent predators and the prosecution of certain offenses involving prohibited items at correctional or civil commitment facilities; creating a criminal offense.
Impact
The implementation of SB1179 is expected to streamline legal processes concerning sexually violent predators, while also fortifying the regulations that govern interaction with civilly committed individuals. The bill modifies existing statutes in the Penal Code, amending the nature of certain offenses and increasing the penalties for violations that occur within the context of civil commitment. Moreover, it grants broader authority for the administration of psychoactive medications for committed individuals, showcasing a significant intersection between crime, public safety, and mental health treatment.
Summary
Senate Bill 1179 focuses on the legal framework surrounding sexually violent predators (SVPs) in Texas, specifically addressing the prosecution of offenses involving prohibited items at correctional or civil commitment facilities. The bill aims to enhance safety and security within these facilities by creating new criminal offenses for individuals who provide prohibited items, such as drugs, weapons, and communication devices, to inmates or those under civil commitment. By establishing clearer guidelines and penalties, SB1179 is designed to ensure that the facilities can operate without the added risks these prohibited items introduce.
Sentiment
The sentiment around SB1179 appears to be predominantly positive, particularly among lawmakers and the Texas Civil Commitment Office. Proponents argue that the bill addresses the pressing need for enhanced safety and improved oversight of civil commitment facilities. However, there are underlying tensions related to the handling and treatment of individuals committed as sexually violent predators, especially regarding the potential for misuse in the administration of medications against the individual's wishes. This aspect has raised ethical discussions in legislative chambers about balancing public safety with the rights of civilly committed persons.
Contention
One point of contention is the balance between necessary security measures and the rights and treatment of individuals classified as sexually violent predators. Critics may express concerns regarding the implications of increased criminal penalties and the expanded authority for administering medications without consent. These concerns emphasize the need for careful reviews and potential safeguards to prevent abuse of authority, ensuring that while public safety is prioritized, the dignity and rights of those affected are not compromised.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Health And Safety Code
Chapter 841. Civil Commitment Of Sexually Violent Predators
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: 042
Section: 123
Section: 0834
Section: 0835
Section: New Section
Section: 042
Section: 209
Penal Code
Chapter 20. Kidnapping, Unlawful Restraint, Andsmuggling Of Persons
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Chapter 21. Sexual Offenses
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Chapter 22. Assaultive Offenses
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Chapter 38. Obstructing Governmental Operation
Section: 11
Section: New Section
Section: 11
Section: 11
Chapter 39. Abuse Of Office
Section: 041
Civil Practice And Remedies Code
Chapter 14. Inmate Litigation
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Chapter 78. Certain Fire Fighters And Fire-fighting Entities
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Code Of Criminal Procedure
Chapter 62. Sex Offender Registration Program
Section: New Section
Occupations Code
Chapter 109. Release Of Sex Offender Treatment Information
Identical
Relating to sexually violent predators and the prosecution of certain offenses involving prohibited items at correctional or civil commitment facilities; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to sexually violent predators and the prosecution of certain offenses involving prohibited items at correctional or civil commitment facilities; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to sexually violent predators, to the Texas Civil Commitment Office, and to the prosecution of the offense of harassment by sexually violent predators and other persons confined in certain facilities; amending certain sex offender registration requirements; increasing criminal penalties.
Relating to the civil commitment of sexually violent predators, the operation of the Texas Civil Commitment Office, and certain related offenses; increasing a criminal penalty.
Relating to the civil commitment of sexually violent predators, the operation of the Texas Civil Commitment Office, and certain related offenses; increasing a criminal penalty.
Relating to the prosecution of certain criminal sexual offenses and the registration and civil commitment of certain sex offenders in this state; providing a penalty.
Relating to sexually violent predators and the prosecution of certain offenses involving prohibited items at correctional or civil commitment facilities; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to the continuity of services received by individuals receiving services at state hospitals and state supported living centers, the establishment of a pilot program to provide behavioral health or psychiatric services to certain residential care facility residents, and court orders for psychoactive medication for certain patients.