Texas House Bill HB115

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of House Committee: 3/31/11
• Introduced: 11/8/10
• Refer: 2/11/11
• Report Pass: 3/22/11

Caption

Relating to the creation of a commission to investigate convictions after exoneration and to prevent wrongful convictions.

Impact

The bill has the potential to significantly impact Texas laws related to criminal justice and the handling of wrongful convictions. By enacting this legislation, the commission will be charged with thorough reviews of wrongful conviction cases, identifying causal factors and proposing legislative, procedural, or regulatory changes aimed at rectifying issues in the criminal justice framework. It may pave the way for reforms in how evidence is gathered, procedures followed in prosecutions, and contributing factors to wrongful convictions, thereby improving the overall integrity of the legal system in Texas.

Summary

House Bill 115 aims to establish the Texas Innocence Commission, which will be responsible for investigating cases of wrongful convictions and preventing future occurrences. The bill recognizes the significance of ensuring justice within the criminal justice system by examining the flaws that can lead to wrongful convictions and formulating recommended reforms. The commission will consist of nine members appointed by the governor, emphasizing a diverse and balanced composition reflective of the state's demographics. Members will serve staggered six-year terms, ensuring continuity and expertise within the commission's operations.

Contention

While the intention behind HB 115 is widely recognized as a step toward enhancing justice, it may face scrutiny regarding its implementation and the efficacy of the commission. Critics could raise concerns about the availability of resources to effectively conduct comprehensive reviews and investigations. Furthermore, there might be debates regarding the independence of the commission and potential political influences affecting its operations. Ultimately, ensuring accountability and genuine progress in preventing wrongful convictions will be essential in assessing the success of the initiative.