Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas House Bill HB758

Caption

Relating to the creation of a commission to review certain laws of this state that restrict the rights or activities of persons convicted of a felony offense and to make certain recommendations regarding those laws.

Impact

The commission established by HB 758 will consist of nine members appointed by various state officials, including the governor, the lieutenant governor, and the speaker of the house. This diverse membership is designed to ensure that the commission includes individuals with a range of expertise, including judges and legal scholars. The key deliverable from this commission will be a report detailing findings and recommendations, which could potentially reshape the legal landscape for individuals with felony convictions. The overarching impact of this bill could lead to a more equitable legal system in Texas, as it seeks to analyze and propose changes to laws viewed as overly punitive.

Summary

House Bill 758 is focused on the creation of a commission tasked with reviewing the laws in Texas that restrict the rights and activities of individuals who have been convicted of felony offenses. The goal of this commission is to evaluate these laws, particularly those concerning voting rights, jury participation, and eligibility for occupational licenses, and to make recommendations for amendments or repeals where appropriate. The initiative represents a significant step towards addressing the legal barriers faced by ex-felons in Texas, aiming to promote reintegration and reduce recidivism through restored rights.

Contention

While there is a general acknowledgment of the need for reform regarding the rights of individuals with felony convictions, HB 758 may face contention concerning the specific recommendations that emerge from the commission's findings. Opponents may argue that changes to existing laws could risk public safety or undermine the justice system. Conversely, advocates for criminal justice reform are likely to support the bill, emphasizing the importance of second chances and the societal benefits of reducing barriers to employment and civic engagement for former felons. Ultimately, how the commission addresses these contrasting viewpoints will be critical for the bill's acceptance and effectiveness.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB927

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 SB1518

Relating to the establishment of a terrorist offender registry and to the supervision of those terrorist offenders; creating criminal offenses related to terrorism.

TX HB40

Relating to prohibitions on the illegal entry into or illegal presence in this state by a person who is an alien, the enforcement of those prohibitions, and authorizing under certain circumstances the removal of persons who violate certain of those prohibitions; creating criminal offenses.

TX HB4843

Relating to increasing the minimum term of imprisonment and changing the eligibility for community supervision and parole for certain felony offenses in which a firearm is used or exhibited, to certain consequences on conviction of certain of those offenses, and to increasing the criminal penalty for the offense of unlawful possession of a firearm by a person convicted of a felony.

TX SB4

Relating to prohibitions on the illegal entry into or illegal presence in this state by a person who is an alien, the enforcement of those prohibitions and certain related orders, including immunity from liability and indemnification for enforcement actions, and authorizing or requiring under certain circumstances the removal of persons who violate those prohibitions; creating criminal offenses.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.