Texas House Bill HB949

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the punishment for the offense of aggravated assault.

Impact

The changes proposed in HB949 are designed to strengthen the legal repercussions for perpetrators of aggravated assault, especially in cases where the victim is in a vulnerable position, such as public servants or scenarios involving retaliation. The amendment ensures that previous sentencing guidelines may be superseded in instances involving serious harm, potentially leading to increased incarceration rates for those convicted of aggravated assault. This enforcement approach could be a pivotal factor in lowering crime rates involving violence against public servants and citizens.

Summary

House Bill 949 amends existing penal code provisions regarding the punishment for aggravated assault in Texas. The bill redefines the punishment structure for aggravated assault, establishing clear distinctions based on the presence of a deadly weapon and the circumstances surrounding the offense. Importantly, HB949 elevates certain offenses to felony of the first degree, particularly when the assault involves a public servant or results in serious bodily injury to the victim. This creates a more stringent legal framework aimed at deterring violent behavior.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support from those advocating for stricter penalties on violent crimes, critics argue that it may contribute to overcrowding in prisons and may overly penalize offenders without addressing the root causes of violence. Some lawmaker discussions highlighted concerns over the bill's implications on judicial discretion, potentially limiting judges' abilities to assess individual cases on their unique circumstances. This balance of public safety versus fair legal practice remains a significant point of contention as the bill progresses.