Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1832

Filed
 
Out of Senate Committee
4/14/09  
Voted on by Senate
4/20/09  
Out of House Committee
5/7/09  
Voted on by House
5/12/09  
Governor Action
5/23/09  
Bill Becomes Law
 
Enrolled
5/13/09  

Caption

Relating to the eligibility for judge-ordered community supervision or for release on parole or to mandatory supervision of a defendant convicted of criminal solicitation of capital murder.

Impact

The implications of SB1832 extend to the Code of Criminal Procedure and the Government Code of Texas, particularly in sections detailing mandatory supervision and crime classifications. By clearly defining the circumstances under which a defendant may be denied eligibility for community supervision, the bill effectively enhances the state’s ability to impose harsher penalties for egregious offenses. The amendment reflects an ongoing legislative trend to tighten the justice system in response to concerns about public safety and offender accountability.

Summary

SB1832 addresses eligibility criteria for community supervision, parole, and mandatory supervision concerning defendants convicted of criminal solicitation of capital murder. This bill amends existing statutes to clarify that individuals who meet certain criteria related to serious offenses—including those adjudicated guilty of capital murder and other aggravated crimes—are not eligible for these forms of supervision. The legislation is aimed at ensuring more stringent consequences for severe criminal actions, reflecting the state's tough stance on violent crimes.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB1832 involve debates on the balance between judicial discretion and statutory mandates. Critics of the legislation argue that the bill may remove essential judicial oversight, potentially leading to unjust outcomes. They contend that the elimination of parole options for certain offenders might exacerbate prison overcrowding or fail to rehabilitate individuals who could otherwise display good behavior. Furthermore, there are concerns that such legislation disproportionately affects marginalized communities already overrepresented in the criminal justice system.

Companion Bills

TX HB493

Identical Relating to the eligibility for judge-ordered community supervision or for release on parole or to mandatory supervision of a defendant convicted of criminal solicitation of capital murder.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.