Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Texas House Bill HB2735

Filed
 
Introduced
3/9/11  
Out of House Committee
4/18/11  
Voted on by House
5/5/11  
Refer
3/16/11  
Out of Senate Committee
5/19/11  
Report Pass
4/13/11  
Voted on by Senate
5/23/11  
Engrossed
5/5/11  
Governor Action
6/17/11  
Refer
5/9/11  
Bill Becomes Law
 
Report Pass
5/19/11  
Enrolled
5/24/11  
Enrolled
5/24/11  
Passed
6/17/11  

Caption

Relating to procedures for certain persons charged with an administrative violation of a condition of release from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice on parole or to mandatory supervision.

Impact

The impact of HB2735 is significant as it alters the procedures for handling administrative violations among releasees. By allowing summons rather than warrants for certain individuals, the bill seeks to reduce the burden of incarceration for minor infractions, thus promoting rehabilitation over punishment. This could lead to a decrease in the jail population and enhance the capacity to focus on more serious offenses. Additionally, the law only applies to those charged with violations post-enactment, ensuring that it does not retroactively affect individuals charged before the bill's passage.

Summary

House Bill 2735 addresses procedures relating to individuals charged with administrative violations of release conditions from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. The bill amends Section 508.251 of the Government Code, allowing for a summons to be issued requiring certain individuals to appear for a hearing rather than issuing a warrant. This change aims to streamline the process and minimize legal consequences for those who may have committed minor breaches of their release conditions over time, specifically those who are no longer serving a sentence for more serious past offenses.

Contention

While the bill appears to promote a more rehabilitative approach within the criminal justice system, there may be notable points of contention regarding public safety. Supporters argue that allowing for summons instead of warrants is a sensible approach to address minor issues without overwhelming the judicial system. However, critics may raise concerns that this leniency could lead to increased violations or safety risks if individuals feel less compelled to adhere to the conditions of their release. As the bill minimally addresses those considered a threat or who are absconders, the discussions may revolve around defining the boundaries of acceptable violations and ensuring that public safety is adequately managed.

Companion Bills

TX SB1530

Identical Relating to procedures for certain persons charged with certain new offenses or an administrative violation of a condition of release from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice on parole or to mandatory supervision.

Previously Filed As

TX HB948

Relating to the release on bail of certain persons charged with a violation of a condition of the person's release from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

TX HB3685

Relating to the award of time credits to certain persons released on parole or to mandatory supervision.

TX HB5114

Relating to the award of work-for-time credits to certain persons placed on community supervision or released on parole or to mandatory supervision.

TX HB3547

Relating to the required approval of certain hospital visits as a condition of release on parole or to mandatory supervision for certain releasees and to the hospital's liability for damages resulting from those visits.

TX SB374

Relating to the period for disposing of a charge that a person violated a condition of release from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

TX HB965

Relating to post-release housing for inmates released on parole or to mandatory supervision.

TX SB2127

Relating to the required approval of certain hospital visits as a condition of release on parole or to mandatory supervision for certain releasees and to the hospital's liability for damages resulting from those visits.

TX HB3603

Relating to the payment of restitution by a person released on parole or to mandatory supervision.

TX HB930

Relating to the admissibility of hearsay evidence in a hearing for a person charged with a violation of a condition of release from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

TX HB606

Relating to the execution of a warrant issued for certain releasees who violate a condition of parole or mandatory supervision related to the electronic monitoring of the releasee.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.