Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1020

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to abolishing the Texas Youth Commission and the Texas Juvenile Probation Commission and transferring the powers and duties of those agencies to the newly created Texas Juvenile Justice Department and to the functions of the independent ombudsman for the Texas Youth Commission.

Impact

The passage of SB1020 would fundamentally alter how juvenile justice services are administered in Texas. It would consolidate various juvenile justice functions into a single department, theoretically resulting in more cohesive policies and practices. The transition process outlined in the bill emphasizes the need for a structured plan to ensure all programs operated under the previous commissions are properly integrated into the new department. Effective by September 1, 2010, these changes aim to improve administrative efficiency and promote rehabilitative programs that address the needs of youthful offenders.

Summary

SB1020 is a legislative measure aimed at streamlining and centralizing the management of juvenile justice in Texas by abolishing the existing Texas Youth Commission and the Texas Juvenile Probation Commission. The powers and duties previously held by these agencies would be transferred to the newly established Texas Juvenile Justice Department, marking a significant restructuring of the state's approach to juvenile offenders. This change aims to enhance accountability, oversight, and effectiveness in handling juvenile cases across the state.

Contention

While the bill aims to improve the juvenile justice system, it may face challenges and contention from various stakeholders. Critics might argue that the dissolution of the Texas Youth Commission and Juvenile Probation Commission could lead to loss of specialized knowledge and services tailored to youth, as well as potential job losses within these established organizations. Additionally, the transition may introduce instability during the implementation phase, raising concerns about service continuity and the capacity of the new department to handle the increased responsibilities effectively.

Companion Bills

TX HB3689

Identical Relating to the functions and continuation of the Texas Youth Commission and the Texas Juvenile Probation Commission and to the functions of the Office of Independent Ombudsman for the Texas Youth Commission.

Previously Filed As

TX SB1727

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, and the powers and duties of the office of inspector general of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX HB1520

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department and the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX HB4356

Relating to the dissolution of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department and the creation of the Office of Youth Safety and Rehabilitation.

TX SB1868

Relating to the powers and duties of the office of inspector general of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX SB1386

Relating to the creation of the office of independent oversight ombudsman for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

TX HB1504

Relating to juveniles committed to the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX HB1530

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement.

TX HB1651

Relating to the eligibility for custodial officer service in the Employees Retirement System of Texas of juvenile justice officers employed by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX SB24

Relating to the powers and duties of the Health and Human Services Commission and the transfer to the commission of certain powers and duties from the Department of Family and Protective Services.

TX HB3552

Relating to the creation of the Texas Slavery and Segregation Commission.

Similar Bills

TX SB653

Relating to abolishing the Texas Youth Commission and the Texas Juvenile Probation Commission and transferring the powers and duties of those agencies to the newly created Texas Juvenile Justice Department and to the functions of the independent ombudsman that serves the department.

TX HB1915

Relating to abolishing the Texas Youth Commission and the Texas Juvenile Probation Commission and transferring the powers and duties of those agencies to the newly created Texas Juvenile Justice Department and to the functions of the independent ombudsman that serves the department.

TX HB3689

Relating to the functions and continuation of the Texas Youth Commission and the Texas Juvenile Probation Commission and to the functions of the Office of Independent Ombudsman for the Texas Youth Commission.

TX SB1727

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, and the powers and duties of the office of inspector general of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX HB4691

Relating to the protection and care of individuals requiring long term care services and supports.

TX HB1520

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department and the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX SB643

Relating to the protection and care of individuals with mental retardation and to certain legal protections for individuals with disabilities; providing criminal penalties.