Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB937

Filed
 
Out of Senate Committee
4/14/09  
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the prosecution of and punishment for certain criminal offenses involving a criminal street gang.

Impact

The amendments made by SB937 aim to strengthen legal measures against gang activity, particularly in cases where children are involved. One notable section makes it a felony to cause or encourage a child to participate in criminal activities associated with gangs, indicating a legislative focus on preventing child exploitation. This shift in legal approach not only expands the scope of prosecutable offenses but also aims to deter adults from involving minors in gang-related crime, thereby potentially reducing the influence of gangs in communities.

Summary

SB937 relates to the prosecution and punishment of criminal offenses involving criminal street gangs. The bill specifically amends the Penal Code to introduce new provisions aimed at addressing gang-related activities more effectively. Central to the changes is the definition of a 'criminal street gang,' and the bill establishes criminal liability for individuals who promote gang interests through various means, including online platforms. The inclusion of provisions for online promotion signifies the bill's recognition of modern methods of gang communication and recruitment, enhancing law enforcement's ability to respond to these threats.

Contention

While proponents of SB937 argue that these measures are necessary to combat gang violence, concerns may arise regarding the implications for free speech and the use of the internet for advocacy. The section regarding online promotion raises questions about the potential for overreach in prosecuting individuals for their online activities. This could lead to debates about the balance between ensuring public safety and protecting individual rights, particularly in the digital age where the lines of communication are constantly evolving.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1316

Relating to the prosecution and punishment of certain criminal offenses involving the smuggling of persons or the operation of a stash house; increasing criminal penalties.

TX HB2599

Relating to prohibiting the possession of a firearm by a person in a criminal street gang; creating a criminal offense; increasing criminal penalties; changing eligibility for community supervision.

TX HB4014

Relating to prohibiting the carrying of a firearm by a member of a criminal street gang while engaged in certain criminal activity; creating a criminal offense; changing the eligibility for community supervision.

TX SB465

Relating to certain criminal conduct involving a catalytic converter; creating a criminal offense; increasing criminal penalties.

TX SB2042

Relating to prohibiting the carrying of a handgun by a member of a criminal street gang while engaged in criminal activity; creating a criminal offense; changing the eligibility for community supervision.

TX SB1427

Relating to certain criminal conduct and organizations that threaten the security of this state and its residents and borders; increasing criminal penalties.

TX HB4642

Relating to offenses involving the manufacture or delivery of certain controlled substances and the enforcement and prevention of those offenses; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB7

Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing a Texas Border Force, and to compensate persons affected by those threats; increasing criminal penalties; creating criminal offenses.

TX HB61

Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing a Texas Border Force, and to compensate persons affected by those threats; increasing criminal penalties; creating criminal offenses.

TX SB1900

Relating to foreign terrorist organizations, including the compilation of information regarding, certain civil actions brought against, and the prosecution of certain organized crime offenses involving a foreign terrorist organization and of sedition.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.