Texas House Bill HB3003

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/23/09
• Voted on by House: 5/6/09
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/22/09
• Voted on by Senate: 5/27/09
• Governor Action: 6/19/09
• Enrolled: 5/29/09
• Passed: 6/19/09

Caption

Relating to the creation of a bail bond board by the commissioners court of certain counties.

Impact

The implementation of HB3003 is expected to impact state law concerning the regulation of bail bonds in smaller counties. By permitting these counties to form their own bail bond boards, the bill introduces a degree of local control and allows for tailored regulations that align with the specific needs of those communities. This change may enhance oversight on the bail bond process and ensure that it operates under the values and requirements of smaller jurisdictions.

Summary

House Bill 3003 establishes guidelines for the creation and dissolution of bail bond boards in counties with a population of less than 110,000. The bill allows the commissioners court to create a bail bond board if a majority of eligible members agree and the court approves the creation with a majority vote. This legislative measure aims to provide a structured approach for smaller counties to manage bail bond services, potentially increasing local accountability and oversight.

Contention

While the bill aims to grant additional authority to counties, it may also raise concerns regarding consistency in bail bond regulations across the state. Critics might argue that allowing counties to have discretion in creating and dissolving bail bond boards could lead to disparities in how bail is handled, resulting in potential inequities among residents based on their location. Concerns regarding the potential for abuse of power or mismanagement by local boards may also arise, necessitating checks to uphold fairness in the bail system.