Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas House Bill HB255

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to mandatory supervision for certain offenses involving the possession of a controlled substance.

Impact

If enacted, HB255 would change how mandatory supervision is applied to individuals incarcerated for specific drug-related third-degree felony offenses. The legislation aims to create a clearer distinction and streamline the process regarding who is eligible for mandatory supervision based on their crimes. This would have implications for both inmates and the criminal justice system, impacting how inmates are assessed for supervision upon release or while serving their time in correctional facilities.

Summary

House Bill 255 focuses on modifications to the supervision of inmates in relation to specific felony offenses associated with the possession of controlled substances. The bill proposes that certain provisions concerning mandatory supervision will not apply to inmates serving sentences for third-degree felonies as specified in the Health and Safety Code. This amendment specifically targets offenders whose crimes pertain to the possession of controlled substances and aims to delineate the consequences and supervision related to these offenses.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB255 appears to categorize it as a measure focused on reforming criminal justice protocols in a manner that reflects a targeted approach to drug offenses. Supporters of the bill might argue that by refining who is subject to mandatory supervision, the bill provides both clarity and potential leniency for those involved in non-violent drug-related offenses, ultimately benefiting inmates seeking rehabilitation and reintegration.

Contention

There could be points of contention concerning the bill's focus on third-degree felony offenses, with concerns raised about effectiveness and fairness. Critics may argue that excluding certain offenses from mandatory supervision could lead to disparities in how offenders are treated and may not address the broader issues of addiction and rehabilitation. As the bill moves through the legislative process, discussions may center on balancing the needs for public safety, fairness, and the potential for lowering recidivism through better supervision policies.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB939

Relating to the penalty for certain offenders for possession of a small amount of certain controlled substances.

TX HB4642

Relating to offenses involving the manufacture or delivery of certain controlled substances and the enforcement and prevention of those offenses; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB2742

Relating to increasing criminal penalties for the manufacture or delivery of certain controlled substances; changing the eligibility for community supervision, deferred adjudication community supervision, or mandatory supervision.

TX HB520

Relating to criminal penalties for possession offenses under the Texas Controlled Substances Act.

TX HB4914

Relating to removing criminal penalties for possession of certain small amounts of controlled substances.

TX HB3983

Relating to changing the eligibility for release on parole or to mandatory supervision of a person convicted of certain violent offenses.

TX HB5116

Relating to the eligibility for certain occupational licenses based on an arrest or conviction for certain offenses involving a controlled substance.

TX HB3854

Relating to creating the criminal offense of possession of an animal by a person convicted of multiple offenses involving animal cruelty and to conditions of punishment and community supervision for defendants convicted of certain criminal offenses involving animals.

TX SB1183

Relating to the defense to prosecution for certain offenses involving possession of small amounts of controlled substances, marihuana, dangerous drugs, or abusable volatile chemicals, or possession of drug paraphernalia for defendants seeking assistance for a suspected overdose.

TX SB70

Relating to the defense to prosecution for certain offenses involving possession of small amounts of controlled substances, marihuana, dangerous drugs, or abusable volatile chemicals, or possession of drug paraphernalia for defendants seeking assistance for a suspected overdose.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.