Texas House Bill HB1531

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/23/09
• Voted on by House: 4/30/09

Caption

Relating to the amount of the fee paid by a defendant for a peace officer's services in executing or processing an arrest warrant, capias, or capias pro fine.

Impact

The bill specifically modifies Article 102.011(a) of the Code of Criminal Procedure, impacting how fees are assessed against defendants convicted of various offenses. It establishes clearer guidelines about the collection of fees, mandating that law enforcement agencies must request the fee within a specific time frame following the execution of a warrant or capias. The increase in fees is positioned as necessary to provide adequate funding and support for law enforcement services, which could have broader implications for budgets and funding within local government law enforcement agencies.

Summary

House Bill 1531 proposes adjustments to the fees associated with the services provided by peace officers during the execution or processing of arrest warrants. Specifically, the bill intends to increase the fee for executing or processing an arrest warrant, capias, or capias pro fine from $50 to $75. This change is aimed at better compensating law enforcement agencies for the crucial role they play in apprehending individuals and processing cases in the judicial system. By altering these fees, the bill reflects a recognition of the resource expenditure involved in such law enforcement activities.

Conclusion

Overall, HB 1531 represents a legislative effort to recalibrate fee structures in criminal procedures, reflecting both operational necessities of law enforcement and potential socio-economic implications for defendants. As the bill progresses, it may encounter debates focusing on its financial impact on defendants versus the operational needs of law enforcement.

Contention

Notably, the discussions surrounding HB 1531 may involve differing opinions on the appropriateness of increasing fees for defendants, particularly during a time when there is heightened scrutiny over criminal justice reform. Critics may argue that increasing fees can disproportionately affect lower-income individuals, particularly those who may already be struggling financially due to legal issues. Discussions surrounding this bill could therefore touch on broader themes of fairness and equity within the legal system, as well as the need for sustainable funding for law enforcement agencies.