Texas House Bill HB659

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the disposal of exhibits used in criminal proceedings.

Impact

This bill modifies existing procedures set forth in the Code of Criminal Procedure, particularly Article 2.21. It introduces new subsections that define the criteria for what constitutes an eligible exhibit and the exact timelines for disposal based on court orders and case outcomes. As such, it is poised to improve the efficiency of the judicial system by reducing the burden of maintaining exhibits that are no longer needed for legal purposes, thereby aiding in better resource management within court systems.

Summary

House Bill 659 aims to streamline the process for the disposal of exhibits used in criminal proceedings. This legislation specifically addresses how and when eligible exhibits can be disposed of, providing clarity on timelines and conditions surrounding such actions. Generally, an exhibit is deemed eligible if it is neither a firearm nor contraband, has not been ordered for return by the court, and does not pertain to any other pending criminal cases. The bill outlines specific periods after which these exhibits may be disposed, varying based on the type of case and the nature of the conviction.

Contention

While the bill aims to streamline exhibit disposal, potential points of contention may arise regarding the implications for defendants in cases with lengthy or complex timelines. For instance, the new regulations could create challenges in ensuring that all parties involved are adequately notified about the disposal timelines of certain exhibits. Additionally, concerns may be raised regarding the handling of evidence that may still hold relevance even after a conviction has been finalized, particularly in cases of appeals or other legal motions.