Relating to notice provided by an applicant to house inmates released on parole or to mandatory supervision.
Impact
The legislation amends the Government Code by adding Section 508.158, which mandates that applicants submit a list of notified schools and facilities along with an affidavit confirming compliance with this notification requirement. The Texas Department of Criminal Justice is tasked with updating application forms to implement this section effectively. The bill applies to applications submitted on or after January 1, 2018, making its enactment essential for maintaining a structured approach to inmate housing in relation to community notification.
Summary
House Bill 3697 aims to enhance public safety by requiring applicants seeking to provide alternative housing for inmates released on parole or mandatory supervision to notify nearby schools and day-care facilities. Specifically, the bill mandates that these applicants send notification by mail to each public school, private school, and licensed day-care facility located within 1,000 feet of the proposed housing location. This requirement is aimed at ensuring that the community is aware of alternative housing placements and can take necessary precautions regarding local safety and welfare.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 3697 appears to be generally positive, particularly among lawmakers advocating for public safety measures. Supporters argue that transparency regarding inmate housing locations is crucial for community safety. However, there are concerns that such requirements may pose additional burdens on service providers seeking to establish alternative housing and may lead to community resistance against these placements due to potential stigma associated with parolees.
Contention
While the primary intent of HB 3697 is to bolster public safety through community notification, there are notable points of contention regarding its implications. Critics may argue that the notification requirement could lead to heightened public anxiety and resistance against housing parolees, which might hinder their reintegration into society. This raises questions about balancing community concerns with the rehabilitation and successful reintegration of released inmates into the community.
Relating to the creation of a voluntary accreditation for recovery housing and the post-release housing of certain inmates on parole or to mandatory supervision in an accredited recovery house; authorizing fees.
Relating to the prosecution of the offenses of indecency with a child and sexual assault and to a child safety zone applicable to a person on community supervision, parole, or mandatory supervision for certain sexual offenses.