TX
Texas Senate Bill SB1658

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1658

Filed
 
Out of Senate Committee
5/10/11  
Introduced
3/11/11  
Voted on by Senate
5/13/11  
Refer
3/23/11  
Out of House Committee
5/21/11  
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the duties of and investigations conducted by the Texas Forensic Science Commission, the administrative attachment of the Texas Forensic Science Commission to Sam Houston State University, and the accreditation of criminal laboratories by the Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas.

Impact

This legislation has significant impacts on the future of forensic science in Texas, particularly in ensuring that crime laboratories meet stricter accreditation requirements. It outlines the investigative processes that the commission must follow when addressing allegations against laboratories, mandating the preparation of detailed reports on these findings. The establishment of an annual reporting system by the commission will serve to promote transparency and accountability by documenting complaints, investigations, and the overall performance of crime labs in the state.

Summary

SB1658 focuses on the duties and investigative authority of the Texas Forensic Science Commission. The bill makes amendments to the Code of Criminal Procedure related to the accreditation of crime laboratories and outlines the commission's roles in overseeing and investigating forensic practices within the state. One of the primary objectives of the bill is enhancing the integrity and quality of forensic analyses performed in Texas, establishing clearer standards and procedures for addressing claims of professional negligence or misconduct within accredited laboratories.

Contention

While the bill aims to bolster forensic reliability, it is also expected to face scrutiny regarding the limits it places on information disclosure related to investigations into professional misconduct. By establishing an open records limitation, the bill restricts access to specific details during investigations, which raises concerns about accountability and public oversight. Furthermore, the qualifications and appointments of commission members could be debated, especially regarding whether they adequately represent the range of expertise needed to handle complex forensic issues.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB991

Relating to the establishment of a crime laboratory portal by the Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas and to disciplinary proceedings applicable to a crime laboratory or license holder investigated by the Texas Forensic Science Commission.

TX SB1834

Relating to disciplinary proceedings applicable to a crime laboratory or license holder investigated by the Texas Forensic Science Commission.

TX HB3447

Relating to the establishment and administration of the Texas Space Commission and the Texas Aerospace Research and Space Economy Consortium.

TX HB2871

Relating to the establishment by The University of Texas at Austin of a program to promote computer science education capacity in this state.

TX SB1652

Relating to the creation, management and administration of the Texas Space Commission and the Texas Aerospace Research and Space Economy Consortium.

TX SB1727

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, and the powers and duties of the office of inspector general of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX HB13

Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing the Texas Homeland Security Division and the Border Security Advisory Council, and to compensate persons affected by those threats.

TX HR437

Commemorating the 10th anniversary of Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso becoming an independent university within the Texas Tech University System.

TX HB127

Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing a Texas Homeland Security Division, and to compensate persons affected by those threats.

TX SB136

Relating to the creation of the Texas Indian Affairs Commission.

Similar Bills

NJ A4507

Establishes "New Jersey Forensic Science Commission."

TX SB1238

Relating to the composition and duties of and investigations conducted by the Texas Forensic Science Commission, the administrative attachment of the Texas Forensic Science Commission to Sam Houston State University, the accreditation of criminal laboratories by the Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas, and the status of certain local government corporations as criminal justice agencies for the purpose of engaging in criminal identification activities, including forensic analysis.

TX HB3554

Relating to the admissibility of expert testimony regarding forensic analyses of physical evidence in a criminal case and to the regulation of certain expert witnesses.

TX SB470

Relating to the regulation of individuals and entities that conduct forensic analyses, examinations, and tests.

TX SB1331

Relating to the regulation of individuals and entities that conduct forensic analyses, examinations, and tests.

TX HB3748

Relating to creating the division of forensic services; abolishing the Texas Forensic Science Commission and transferring certain duties of the commission and the Department of Public Safety to the division of forensic services.

TX SB1287

Relating to the Texas Forensic Science Commission, the accreditation of crime laboratories, and the licensing and regulation of forensic analysts; authorizing fees; requiring an occupational license.

TX SB991

Relating to the establishment of a crime laboratory portal by the Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas and to disciplinary proceedings applicable to a crime laboratory or license holder investigated by the Texas Forensic Science Commission.