Relating to the restoration of civil rights to a criminal defendant.
Impact
If enacted, HB 2933 would significantly impact the landscape of criminal justice in Texas, particularly concerning the rights of former offenders. By enabling individuals with non-violent felony convictions to restore their civil rights, the bill aims to enhance reintegration into society, potentially improving employment opportunities and social support for these individuals. This legislative change reflects a shift towards more rehabilitative approaches in criminal justice, focusing on second chances rather than perpetual disenfranchisement.
Summary
House Bill 2933 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 felonies, excluding those involving violence, drugs, or firearms. The proposed change aims to allow individuals who have completed their sentences to apply for restoring their civil rights at specific intervals after their convictions. For federal offenses, applicants must wait three years, while for offenses under foreign laws, a two-year wait is mandated before applying for restoration.
Contention
Despite its potential benefits, HB 2933 may face criticisms and challenges. Some stakeholders may argue about the risks associated with restoring civil rights to individuals with felony convictions, emphasizing public safety concerns. There may also be discussions around the definition of 'non-violent' offenses and whether certain crimes, often classified as non-violent, should be included in this restoration process. The bill's framework could prompt debate on the adequacy of waiting periods and whether they sufficiently balance the rights of former offenders against public safety considerations.
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.
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.
Relating to offenses involving the manufacture or delivery of certain controlled substances and the enforcement and prevention of those offenses; creating a criminal offense.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.