Texas Senate Bill SB1887

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Refer: 3/31/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 4/6/11
• Voted on by Senate: 4/14/11
• Report Pass: 4/6/11
• Out of House Committee: 5/19/11
• Engrossed: 4/14/11
• Voted on by House: 5/23/11
• Refer: 4/29/11
• Governor Action: 6/17/11
• Report Pass: 5/16/11
• Introduced: 5/19/11
• Enrolled: 5/23/11
• Passed: 6/17/11

Caption

Relating to the appointment of bailiffs in certain county criminal courts of Tarrant County.

Impact

The impact of SB1887 on state laws is notable. By standardizing the appointment of bailiffs across multiple criminal courts in Tarrant County, the bill aims to enhance operational efficiency and consistency within the judicial system. The changes will facilitate some level of uniformity in how bailiffs are assigned, potentially improving the management of court proceedings and ensuring that judges have adequate support during court sessions.

Summary

SB1887 relates specifically to the appointment of bailiffs in certain county criminal courts within Tarrant County, Texas. The bill amends Section 25.2223 of the Government Code to require the regular assignment of at least two bailiffs to the County Criminal Courts Nos. 1 and 2. Additionally, the bill extends this requirement to County Criminal Courts Nos. 3 through 10, mandating that each judge appoint one officer to act as the bailiff for their respective court. Furthermore, it allows the sheriff of Tarrant County to appoint bailiffs, provided the judge authorizes such appointments.

Conclusion

Overall, SB1887 aims to improve the functioning of the courts in Tarrant County by ensuring that there are sufficient bailiffs assigned to support the judges, while also empowering the sheriff in the appointment process under specific conditions. The legislative discussions surrounding the bill will likely explore the balance of responsibilities between judicial and law enforcement agencies in fulfilling these roles.

Contention

Although the bill appears straightforward, there may be some contention regarding the delegation of authority concerning the appointment of bailiffs. Allowing the sheriff to make appointments under certain circumstances could raise concerns about the separation of powers and judicial independence. Critics may argue that such provisions could lead to conflicts of interest or the assertion of undue influence by the sheriff's office in judicial matters.