Relating to the use of certain fees collected for pretrial intervention programs offered in a county.
Impact
The financial aspect of HB 809 aims to streamline funding for pretrial interventions, ensuring that counties can adequately cover the costs incurred by their prosecutorial offices. Significantly, it establishes a special fund within the county treasury, which would be managed by the prosecuting attorneys. Remaining funds after covering intervention expenses may be allocated for further operational costs of the prosecutor's office, but not for supplemental salaries, thus maintaining a focus on public service rather than personal financial gain.
Summary
House Bill 809 deals with the management and usage of fees collected for pretrial intervention programs at the county level. The bill amends existing provisions in the Code of Criminal Procedure, specifically targeting the financial administration of these fees. Under the proposed law, district attorneys, criminal district attorneys, and county attorneys are authorized to collect a fee of up to $500 from defendants participating in these programs. This fee is intended to reimburse the county for the administrative costs associated with managing participants in pretrial intervention programs.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding the bill is generally supportive from those within the criminal justice system who advocate for better funding mechanisms for pretrial intervention programs. These programs are seen as vital for diverting individuals from incarceration and facilitating rehabilitation. However, there is a concern from some community members about whether such fees could disproportionately impact lower-income defendants, potentially discouraging participation in these beneficial programs due to financial constraints.
Contention
A notable point of contention tied to HB 809 is the potential ethical implications of charging fees to defendants seeking help through pretrial intervention programs. Critics argue that imposing financial barriers can exacerbate disparities within the judicial system, as those with fewer resources may be unable to afford participation, thereby reducing the effectiveness of the program. As the bill moves forward, discussions around equity and accessibility for all defendants will likely continue to be a focal point in legislative debates.
Relating to the procedures for the expunction of arrest records and files for persons who complete certain court programs or pretrial intervention programs.
Relating to the procedures for the expunction of arrest records and files for persons who complete certain court programs or pretrial intervention programs.
Relating to the operation and administration of and practices and procedures regarding proceedings in the judicial branch of state government, including the service of process and delivery of documents related to the proceedings, the administration of oaths, and the management of the Texas Indigent Defense Commission, and the composition of certain juvenile boards; establishing a civil penalty; increasing certain court costs; authorizing fees.
Relating to youth diversion strategies and procedures for children accused of certain fine-only offenses in municipal and justice courts and related criminal justice matters; authorizing fees.
Relating to youth diversion strategies and procedures for children accused of certain fine-only offenses in municipal and justice courts and related criminal justice matters; authorizing fees.
Relating to primary and secondary education, including the certification, compensation, and health coverage of certain public school employees, the public school finance system, special education in public schools, the establishment of an education savings account program, measures to support the education of public school students that include certain educational grant programs, reading instruction, and early childhood education, the provision of virtual education, and public school accountability.
Relating to the creation of offices of District Attorney for the Northeast Texas, Central Texas, Southeast Texas, and South Texas Regions and the powers and duties of and related to such officers.
Relating to the creation of the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th Regional Administrative Judicial Districts, the creation of the office of regional district attorney for each district, and the powers and duties of regional district attorneys.
Jefferson Co., Tenth Judicial Circuit, Bessemer Division, add'l assistant district attorney provided for, approval by Jefferson County Commission, Sec. 45-37-82.01 am'd.