Texas House Bill HB3719

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to the prosecution of the offense of failure to identify.

Impact

The introduction of this bill could significantly influence interactions between law enforcement and civilians. By broadening the situations where identification is mandated, the bill aims to strengthen the tools available to officers in apprehending criminals and gathering information on potential witnesses. Proponents argue that this change will enhance public safety and assist in the prosecution of criminal activity. However, it may also raise concerns regarding civil liberties and the potential for misuse of power by law enforcement.

Summary

House Bill 3719 seeks to amend Section 38.02 of the Texas Penal Code regarding the offense related to failure to identify oneself to law enforcement authorities. The bill clarifies the circumstances under which a person is required to provide their name, residence address, or date of birth to a peace officer. It specifies that this obligation arises not just during a lawful arrest but also during lawful detention or if the officer has good reason to believe the individual may be a witness to a criminal offense.

Contention

Opposition to HB 3719 is likely rooted in worries about the implications for individual rights, particularly in the context of policing and potential racial profiling. Critics may argue that the expanded conditions for requiring identification could lead to more frequent and arbitrary stops by police, disproportionately affecting marginalized communities. The balance between effective law enforcement and personal freedoms is a key point of contention that the bill embodies.