Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas House Bill HB553

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

Caption

Relating to the establishment of the office of criminal and juvenile justice ombudsman.

Impact

The introduction of the ombudsman provides a centralized mechanism through which grievances against criminal and juvenile justice agencies can be addressed. This office will have the authority to review complaints, investigate systemic issues, and provide advocacy for individuals and their families. Such measures are seen as crucial in fostering transparency within the justice system, particularly in ensuring that the rights and well-being of juveniles and marginalized groups are upheld. Additionally, the ombudsman is required to report serious cases of abuse or systemic problems to state officials, enhancing accountability further.

Summary

House Bill 553 aims to establish the Office of Criminal and Juvenile Justice Ombudsman in Texas, which is intended to be a state agency responsible for the investigation, evaluation, and securing of rights for individuals involved in the criminal and juvenile justice systems. This new office will act as an independent entity that oversees the treatment and rights of individuals arrested, detained, confined, or supervised by various justice agencies. The creation of this office signifies an effort to ensure accountability and protect the rights of vulnerable individuals within these systems.

Contention

Challenges surrounding the bill may arise from existing justice agencies that might view this independent oversight as an infringement on their operations or an additional layer of bureaucracy. Some stakeholders may express concerns regarding the effectiveness and viability of the ombudsman office in producing tangible improvements in the justice system, particularly if there are limitations on its investigative powers or resources. Furthermore, the bill has implications for the relationship between oversight entities and operational bodies within the justice system, which may lead to political and practical contention.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB1386

Relating to the creation of the office of independent oversight ombudsman for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

TX HB1520

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department and the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX SB1727

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, and the powers and duties of the office of inspector general of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX SB2114

Relating to the establishment of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Education Agency.

TX HB3427

Relating to the ombudsman office for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

TX SB1868

Relating to the powers and duties of the office of inspector general of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX HB4356

Relating to the dissolution of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department and the creation of the Office of Youth Safety and Rehabilitation.

TX HB1651

Relating to the eligibility for custodial officer service in the Employees Retirement System of Texas of juvenile justice officers employed by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX HB2887

Relating to eligibility for custodial officer service in the Employees Retirement System of Texas by certain juvenile correctional officers and caseworkers employed by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX HB3462

Relating to the consolidation of ombudsman programs administered by the Health and Human Services Commission.

Similar Bills

TX HB3303

Relating to the creation of the Office of the Independent Oversight Ombudsman for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

NJ S3186

Establishes Office of Ombudsman for Children.

NJ A3227

Establishes Office of Ombudsman for Children.

NJ S2500

Establishes Office of Ombudsman for Children.

NJ A4353

Establishes Office of Ombudsman for Children.

VA SB1081

Children's Ombudsman, Office of the; removes Children's Advocacy Fund.

TX HB1421

Relating to a report by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice regarding inmate grievances.

TX SB485

Relating to the creation of the office of independent oversight ombudsman for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.