Texas Senate Bill SB950

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to law enforcement policies regarding the issuance of citations for misdemeanors punishable by fine only and to a limitation on the authority to arrest a person for certain fine-only misdemeanors.

Impact

The legislation proposes amendments to the Code of Criminal Procedure, enforcing a 'cite and release' policy where officers, upon a person's identification, can issue a citation for misdemeanors instead of making an arrest. This policy aims to alleviate the burden on the criminal justice system by reducing the number of arrests for minor offenses, encouraging a more efficient allocation of law enforcement resources. The effects of this reform could lead to fewer individuals entering the criminal system for low-level offenses, particularly in communities that are disproportionately affected by such arrests.

Summary

Senate Bill 950 aims to reform law enforcement practices concerning the issuance of citations for misdemeanors that are punishable by fines only. The bill introduces a mandate for law enforcement agencies to establish written policies that prioritize issuing citations, rather than arresting individuals for certain fine-only misdemeanors. This shift is intended to focus law enforcement efforts on more significant violations, while providing a clear framework for officers on how to handle these types of offenses.

Contention

Opponents may raise concerns regarding the perceived leniency on law enforcement's ability to enforce laws and maintain public order. Supporters argue that by refraining from arresting individuals for non-violent misdemeanors, the bill decreases strain on both law enforcement and judicial resources. Notably, the bill includes exemptions that allow arrests for specific misdemeanors, indicating a balanced approach to enforcement while safeguarding public safety.