TX
Texas House Bill HB748

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas House Bill HB748

Caption

Relating to the restoration of civil rights to a criminal defendant.

Impact

If enacted, HB748 would significantly alter the process under which individuals can regain their civil rights, opening pathways for those who have previously faced felony charges and enabling them to apply for restoration after the completion of their sentence. The bill applies to defendants convicted before, on, or after the effective date, thus ensuring that it has retroactive implications for prior convictions. This change is seen as a necessary step towards reducing the barriers faced by former offenders reintegrating into society.

Summary

House Bill 748 seeks to amend the Code of Criminal Procedure in Texas to facilitate the restoration of civil rights to individuals who have been convicted of certain offenses. The bill specifically targets non-violent civil offenses, excluding those related to violence, drugs, and firearms. The intention behind this legislation is to enhance the rehabilitation process of criminal defendants by simplifying the criteria through which their civil rights can be restored after completing their sentences.

Conclusion

Overall, House Bill 748 represents a significant movement towards a more rehabilitative criminal justice system in Texas that acknowledges the difficulty former offenders face when trying to rebuild their lives. The discussions around it will likely focus on balancing the needs for rehabilitation with ensuring community safety.

Contention

There may be notable points of contention surrounding HB748, particularly regarding the exclusions related to violent offenses, drug offenses, and firearm-related crimes. Supporters of the bill argue that reintegrating non-violent offenders into society is essential for community safety and personal rehabilitation. However, opponents may argue that allowing restoration of civil rights too broadly, without stringent checks, could undermine public safety or diminish the repercussions of criminal behavior.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB2030

Relating to the restoration of civil rights to a criminal defendant.

TX HB3400

Relating to the release of defendants on bail, the duties of a magistrate in certain criminal proceedings, and the appointment of certain criminal law hearing officers; creating a criminal offense.

TX SB1318

Relating to the release of defendants on bail, the duties of a magistrate in certain criminal proceedings, and the notice provided by peace officers to adult victims of family violence.

TX HB4517

Relating to the release of certain defendants on personal bond.

TX HB4642

Relating to offenses involving the manufacture or delivery of certain controlled substances and the enforcement and prevention of those offenses; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB4014

Relating to prohibiting the carrying of a firearm by a member of a criminal street gang while engaged in certain criminal activity; creating a criminal offense; changing the eligibility for community supervision.

TX SB2042

Relating to prohibiting the carrying of a handgun by a member of a criminal street gang while engaged in criminal activity; creating a criminal offense; changing the eligibility for community supervision.

TX SB1527

Relating to human trafficking, including the prosecution and punishment of compelling and solicitation of prostitution and other sexual or assaultive offenses; increasing a criminal penalty; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB3451

Relating to human trafficking, including the prosecution and punishment of compelling and solicitation of prostitution and other sexual or assaultive offenses; increasing a criminal penalty; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB22

Relating to abortion, including civil liability for distribution of abortion-inducing drugs and duties of Internet service providers; creating a criminal offense; authorizing a private civil right of action.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.