Texas Senate Bill SB2188

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to community supervision.

Impact

A notable provision allows judges to modify the terms of community supervision, prioritizing conditions based on individual risk assessments and progress under supervision. This flexibility is intended to enhance rehabilitation efforts by enabling a more tailored approach to community supervision. Additionally, the bill emphasizes the need for judges to assess a defendant's ability to pay fines and fees before imposing financial obligations, aiming to reduce the financial burden on those who are unable to afford them. This is important as it may prevent unnecessary revocations of community supervision due to financial hardships.

Summary

Senate Bill 2188 addresses several aspects of community supervision within the Texas criminal justice system. The bill seeks to amend existing provisions in the Code of Criminal Procedure regarding the regulation of community supervision. Key amendments include stipulations that prohibit court-ordered mediation for family violence cases and revisions to the conditions and requirements that can be imposed on defendants participating in community supervision programs. The overarching intent of the bill is to improve the effectiveness of community supervision by focusing on rehabilitation rather than punitive measures.

Contention

Some points of contention raised during discussions surrounding SB2188 include concerns regarding the adequacy of treatment options and the implications of financial requirements on low-income defendants. Critics argue that the focus on individualized assessments and the potential for increased costs in implementing new programs may disproportionately affect marginalized populations. Conversely, supporters argue that the bill’s emphasis on rehabilitation and tailored oversight is a progressive step toward reforming how community supervision is administered in Texas, thus promoting better outcomes for individuals and communities.