Texas Senate Bill SB685

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to hearings by the Board of Pardons and Paroles regarding clemency matters.

Impact

This bill impacts state laws by altering how clemency hearings are conducted in capital cases. The members of the Board are not required to meet in person, which was a significant requirement in earlier statutes. This shift opens the door for hearings to be held remotely, minimizing the logistical concerns associated with transporting inmates. Additionally, the ability to conduct hearings without the public's presence may raise questions about transparency and accountability in these critical decisions regarding life and death.

Summary

SB685 relates to the procedures followed by the Board of Pardons and Paroles in Texas when handling clemency matters for capital cases. The bill amends various sections of the Government Code and Code of Criminal Procedure to allow the Board to conduct hearings remotely through telephone or videoconference calls, thereby streamlining the clemency process while still allowing representation from both the inmate and the victim's family. The legislation aims to modernize and facilitate clemency hearings, making them more accessible and efficient.

Contention

Notably, while the measure is seen as a way to facilitate quicker and more efficient handling of clemency cases, it also introduces the potential for criticism regarding the lack of public oversight in such significant matters. The change in law allows for private deliberations by the Board after hearings, which could potentially lead to concerns about the fairness and openness of the clemency process. As such, there may be differing opinions on the balance between ensuring timely clemency hearings and maintaining the necessary transparency in decisions that could significantly alter an inmate's fate.