Texas Senate Bill SB2060

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to compensation and restitution to crime victims and the disposition of unclaimed restitution payments; providing for an administrative penalty.

Impact

The legislation directly impacts existing statutes related to crime victim compensation, specifically in how unclaimed restitution payments are treated. Departments receiving payments from defendants are now mandated to notify victims promptly and to facilitate claims. The Comptroller is designated as the primary authority to manage these funds, creating a centralized system aimed at enhancing accountability in disbursing restitution to victims. This change is anticipated to streamline the process, making it easier for victims to access funds owed to them.

Summary

SB2060 focuses on enhancing the process for compensating crime victims in Texas. The bill establishes clearer guidelines for the management and disposition of unclaimed restitution payments, ensuring that funds intended for crime victims are handled more efficiently. This includes penalties for agencies that fail to comply with deadlines for transferring unclaimed restitution payments to the state treasury. By introducing administrative penalties, the bill aims to incentivize timely reporting and compliance from departments handling restitution payments.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB2060 include concerns about how the bill may affect certain victims who are unable to claim their restitution within specified time frames, potentially leading to funds being categorized as unclaimed or abandoned. Critics argue that the stringent timelines enforced may disadvantage victims struggling to navigate the complexities of the claims process. The bill's supporters, on the other hand, emphasize the necessity of accountability and timely restitution delivery, viewing the administrative penalties as essential to protect the interests of crime victims.