Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas House Bill HB3727

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

Caption

Relating to the fees collected by prosecutors for collection and processing of certain checks or similar sight orders; authorizing an increase in fees.

Impact

If passed, HB3727 will directly affect the Code of Criminal Procedure by modifying existing fee structures. The changes will likely increase the financial burden on those who need to process specific transactions involving checks or sight orders within the legal framework. By imposing higher fees, the bill could impact low-income individuals who might be dealing with financial hardships while navigating the criminal justice system. These amendments will come into effect for checks issued or passed on or after the effective date of the Act, ensuring a clear transition in how such fees are applied.

Summary

House Bill 3727 is aimed at adjusting the fees charged by prosecutors for the collection and processing of certain checks and similar sight orders. The bill proposes to increase the maximum allowable fees across various ranges of check amounts. For instance, it raises the maximum fee for a check exceeding $500 from $75 to $150 and sets higher caps for larger amounts. This amendment is likely intended to enhance the revenue generated from these processing fees, which can contribute to local and state funds supporting various criminal justice initiatives.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB3727 appears to be mixed. Proponents may argue that increasing fees could enhance the funding available for vital functions of the criminal justice system, supporting law enforcement and public safety programs. However, there are concerns regarding the practicality of additional fees in terms of their impact on individuals who may already struggle with the costs associated with criminal proceedings, raising questions about equity and access to justice.

Contention

Discussions around HB3727 could reflect contention particularly among various stakeholders. Critics may argue that increasing fees acts as a barrier for those seeking to comply with legal processes, especially for those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Furthermore, there may be debates on whether the revenue generated by such fees will adequately address the needs of the criminal justice system or merely add to the existing financial pressures faced by individuals at the receiving end of these changes.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB1612

Relating to court administration and costs; increasing certain court costs; authorizing fees.

TX HB1977

Relating to the creation of a pretrial intervention program for certain youth offenders; authorizing a fee.

TX HB3186

Relating to youth diversion strategies and procedures for children accused of certain fine-only offenses in municipal and justice courts and related criminal justice matters; authorizing fees.

TX SB1505

Relating to youth diversion strategies and procedures for children accused of certain fine-only offenses in municipal and justice courts and related criminal justice matters; authorizing fees.

TX HB3032

Relating to periods of detention following arrest and increasing the criminal penalties for violation of certain court orders and conditions of bond.

TX HB3403

Relating to court administration and costs; increasing certain court costs; authorizing fees.

TX HB3474

Relating to the operation and administration of and practices and procedures regarding proceedings in the judicial branch of state government, including the service of process and delivery of documents related to the proceedings, the administration of oaths, and the management of the Texas Indigent Defense Commission, and the composition of certain juvenile boards; establishing a civil penalty; increasing certain court costs; authorizing fees.

TX HB4504

Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of certain provisions of the Code of Criminal Procedure, including conforming amendments.

TX SB2400

Relating to collection of certain fines assessed for traffic offenses.

TX SB4

Relating to prohibitions on the illegal entry into or illegal presence in this state by a person who is an alien, the enforcement of those prohibitions and certain related orders, including immunity from liability and indemnification for enforcement actions, and authorizing or requiring under certain circumstances the removal of persons who violate those prohibitions; creating criminal offenses.

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