Texas House Bill HB2992

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to authorizing a fee in bail bond forfeiture proceedings.

Impact

The bill is particularly relevant for the financial mechanisms within local government and judiciary funding. By instituting this fee on bail bond forfeitures, the legislation seeks to address issues of funding shortages within the court system. The collected fees will contribute to maintaining and enhancing the operational capabilities of the judiciary, which may be beneficial for local governments facing financial constraints.

Summary

House Bill 2992 aims to amend the Local Government Code by authorizing a fee for bail bond forfeiture proceedings. Specifically, the bill proposes that a $42 fee be collected alongside the filing of any civil suit or after the entry of a judgment nisi for the forfeiture of a bail bond. This fee is intended to support court-related purposes and the judiciary, thus providing additional funding for local court systems.

Contention

While the bill appears to streamline the funding process for judicial support, it may also raise concerns regarding the financial burdens placed on defendants. The introduction of an additional fee may be viewed by some stakeholders as punitive, particularly for those who are already navigating the complexities of the bail system. Discussions within local government circles may focus on the balance between necessary funding for judicial processes and the implications of increased costs for individuals facing court proceedings.