Relating to the approval of a community supervision and corrections department's budget and strategic plan.
Impact
The bill impacts state laws by enhancing the oversight and accountability of budgeting within community supervision and corrections departments. By mandating that departmental budgets and strategic plans be reviewed and approved by the division, the bill aims to provide a more consistent framework across Texas's judicial districts, which could lead to improved allocation of resources and better strategic planning within these departments. The requirement for periodic audits and financial statements may also foster greater transparency in how funds are utilized in community corrections programs.
Summary
Senate Bill 663 relates to the approval process for the budget and strategic plans of community supervision and corrections departments in Texas. It amends provisions in the Government Code to require district judges and county court judges in the respective judicial districts to establish a community supervision and corrections department and review the department's budget and strategic plan as approved by the relevant division. The goal of these amendments is to streamline the approval process and ensure alignment with statewide standards for community supervision and corrections.
Sentiment
The conversations around SB 663 indicate a generally supportive sentiment towards improving the operational efficiencies of community supervision and corrections departments. Proponents argue that the bill facilitates necessary judicial oversight while potentially leading to better outcomes for individuals within the corrections system. However, there may be concerns over the implications of increased state control over budgetary decisions, particularly regarding how this could affect local governance and the autonomy of individual departments.
Contention
One of the notable points of contention surrounding SB 663 is the balance between state oversight and local control. While supporters believe that the centralization of budget approval will enhance accountability and effectiveness, opponents might argue that such a shift could limit the adaptability of local departments to address unique community needs and challenges. These discussions highlight a tension within the legislative framework about how to best manage community supervision—whether through local flexibility or through stricter state regulation.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Government Code
Chapter 76. Community Supervision And Corrections Departments
Section: New Section
Section: 0045
Section: New Section
Section: 0045
Section: New Section
Section: 0045
Section: New Section
Section: 0045
Section: New Section
Section: 0045
Section: New Section
Section: 0045
Section: New Section
Section: 0045
Chapter 509. Community Justice Assistance Division
Section: 004
Section: 007
Section: 004
Section: 007
Section: 004
Section: 007
Section: 004
Section: 007
Section: 004
Section: 007
Section: 004
Section: 007
Section: 004
Section: 007
Local Government Code
Chapter 140. Miscellaneous Financial Provisions Affecting Municipalities, Counties, And Other Local Governments
Relating to the representation of a community supervision and corrections department in cases in which a person under the supervision of that department challenges the fact or duration of the supervision.
Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department and the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.
Relating to youth diversion strategies and procedures for children accused of certain fine-only offenses in municipal and justice courts and related criminal justice matters; authorizing fees.
Relating to youth diversion strategies and procedures for children accused of certain fine-only offenses in municipal and justice courts and related criminal justice matters; authorizing fees.
Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, and the powers and duties of the office of inspector general of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.
Relating to the development of a strategic plan for home and community-based services provided under Medicaid and the child health plan program and the establishment of an advisory committee on home and community-based services.
Relating to the development of a strategic plan for home and community-based services provided under Medicaid and the child health plan program and the establishment of an advisory committee on home and community-based services.
Requires each principal department in Executive Branch to conduct review of department's COVID-19 preparedness, response, and recovery and make recommendations.
Requires each principal department in Executive Branch to conduct review of department's COVID-19 preparedness, response, and recovery and make recommendations.
Relating to inspection procedures in certain long-term care facilities and the creation of a long-term care legislative oversight committee; providing penalties.
Taxation: administration; settlement process; modify to reflect repeal of the state real estate transfer tax act. Amends sec. 21 of 1941 PA 122 (MCL 205.21). TIE BAR WITH: HB 5811'24
Relating to the continuation and functions of the Department of Information Resources and certain procurement functions of the comptroller of public accounts.