Texas House Bill HB1633

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/1/11
• Introduced: 2/22/11
• Voted on by House: 4/20/11
• Refer: 3/3/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/12/11
• Report Pass: 3/30/11
• Engrossed: 4/20/11
• Refer: 4/29/11
• Report Pass: 5/12/11

Caption

Relating to a person's ability to read and write in English as a qualification for service as a petit juror.

Impact

The legislation directly influences how jurors are qualified in Texas by enforcing English literacy as a standard. However, it also stipulates that in situations where a sufficient number of jurors who can read and write English are not available, a court may suspend this qualification. This adjustment is crucial for ensuring that courts have an adequate jury pool while acknowledging potential language barriers within communities. The bill aims to enhance the fairness of jury trials by ensuring that jurors can comprehend legal proceedings.

Summary

House Bill 1633 amends the Code of Criminal Procedure and related provisions regarding the qualifications for jurors in Texas. Specifically, it focuses on the ability to read and write in English as a prerequisite for service as a petit juror. The bill aims to streamline the juror selection process, ensuring that jurors can understand the proceedings and effectively participate in trials. The new provision allows for challenges based on language proficiency to be addressed more directly within the qualifications outlined for jurors.

Contention

Debate around HB 1633 may stem from concerns about language discrimination and the rights of non-English speakers. Opponents of the legislation may argue that this could disenfranchise individuals who are not fluent in English but otherwise meet the essential criteria for jury service. Furthermore, the adjustments to jury qualifications might raise questions about the integrity of the judicial process regarding representation. Proponents may defend the bill as necessary for maintaining the functional understanding of jurors towards legal language and proceedings, advocating that comprehension is crucial in delivering a fair verdict.