Texas House Bill HB2280

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to prohibited employment by a bail bond surety.

Impact

The implications of HB 2280 may significantly alter the landscape of employment within the bail bond sector in Texas. By legally restricting who can serve as agents for sureties, the bill seeks to enhance the professionalism of the industry and protect the interests of clients and the community. This employment restriction directly affects the hiring practices of bail bond agencies and aims to deter criminal activity associated with the profession. The law is likely to encourage bail bond firms to conduct thorough background checks, maintaining a higher standard for those involved in the bail process.

Summary

House Bill 2280 addresses the employment practices of bail bond sureties in Texas by prohibiting them from hiring or contracting individuals who have been convicted of certain crimes. Specifically, it stipulates that a bail bond surety, including attorneys who act as sureties, cannot employ a person who has a final conviction for a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude or any felony. This bill aims to ensure that individuals representing bail bond sureties are of good moral character, thereby upholding the integrity of the bail bond industry.

Contention

While the bill received broad bipartisan support, with a vote of 144 to 2 in favor, it raises questions regarding the balance of public safety and employment opportunities. Some voices in opposition may argue that blanket prohibitions could overly restrict individuals who have served their time and are seeking to reintegrate into society. Additionally, the bill's specific definitions of moral turpitude and the implications for those previously convicted might lead to discussions about fairness and the potential for rehabilitation for offenders within the community.