Texas Senate Bill SB1150

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to reimbursing a commissioners court for the reasonable cost of transporting a body for the purpose of an autopsy.

Impact

If enacted, SB1150 will directly impact the financial responsibilities of local governments, especially concerning the management of autopsy logistics. By enabling reimbursement for transportation costs, this bill alleviates some of the fiscal pressure on commissioners courts that might otherwise have to cover these expenses with local funds. Additionally, it creates a clearer process for accessing state and forfeiture funds, potentially streamlining the financial management of autopsy-related costs across Texas.

Summary

SB1150 is a legislative proposal aiming to amend the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure by allowing commissioners courts to seek reimbursement for the reasonable costs incurred when transporting bodies for autopsies. Specifically, it introduces a new provision that facilitates reimbursement from two primary sources: the compensation to victims of crime fund and civil asset forfeiture proceeds. This statute represents an important step in ensuring that counties are not financially burdened when carrying out mandatory autopsy procedures that may relate to unlawful deaths.

Contention

The bill could generate debate over the appropriateness of using crime victim funds for reimbursing transportation costs. Some stakeholders may argue that these funds should prioritize direct services for victims and their families rather than logistical costs associated with forensic procedures. Moreover, opposition could also arise concerning the stipulation that only one source of reimbursement can be utilized for each instance of transportation, which might complicate funding strategies for some counties relying on multiple funding mechanisms.