Texas House Bill HB976

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 1/27/11
• Out of House Committee: 4/18/11
• Voted on by House: 4/27/11
• Refer: 2/28/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/12/11
• Report Pass: 3/29/11
• Voted on by Senate: 5/19/11
• Engrossed: 4/27/11
• Governor Action: 6/17/11
• Refer: 5/2/11
• Report Pass: 5/12/11
• Enrolled: 5/21/11
• Passed: 6/17/11

Caption

Relating to the issuance of a warrant or summons by a magistrate.

Impact

The implications of HB 976 are noteworthy as they amend existing laws to incorporate modern technology into the legal system. By allowing electronic appearances, the bill is expected to alleviate potential delays and logistical issues associated with physical appearances in court. Additionally, a recording requirement of the interaction between the magistrate and the individual is established, ensuring that there is an official account of the proceedings, which can be useful for transparency and accountability.

Summary

House Bill 976, titled 'Relating to the issuance of a warrant or summons by a magistrate,' introduces significant changes to the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure regarding how warrants and summons can be issued. The bill allows for individuals to appear before a magistrate either in person or via an electronic broadcast system, which could include secure Internet videoconferencing. This provision aims to enhance accessibility and streamline the legal process, particularly for those unable to appear in person due to various circumstances.

Contention

While the bill primarily aims to improve procedural efficiency, it raises concerns regarding the safeguarding of the rights of defendants. Critics may argue that remote appearances could undermine the personal interaction aspect of judicial proceedings, potentially affecting the quality of representation and communication. Furthermore, the provision for recording these electronic communications necessitates careful consideration of privacy implications and data security, as these recordings must be preserved until the defendant is acquitted or all appeals are exhausted.