Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas House Bill HB3133

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

Caption

Relating to the penalties prescribed for a single violation or repeated violations of certain court orders or conditions of bond in a family violence case.

Impact

The implication of HB 3133 on state laws is significant as it modifies existing legal frameworks related to family violence. The changes reinforce the legal system's resolve to address repeat offenses more stringently. By categorizing multiple violations under a single court order as cumulative within a year, the legislation aims to diminish further violations and facilitate a safer environment for victims. Additionally, it emphasizes the need for thoughtful adjudication of domestic offenses, recognizing the gravity and recurring nature of such violations.

Summary

House Bill 3133 focuses on amending the penalties related to violations of court orders or bond conditions within the context of family violence cases. The bill seeks to enhance the consequences for individuals who repeatedly violate these rules, introducing provisions that elevate offenses to a felony level under certain circumstances. Specifically, if a person has two or more previous convictions of similar violations within a 12-month period, the current offense can be escalated to a third-degree felony, reflecting a tougher stance against persistent offenders.

Sentiment

General sentiment surrounding HB 3133 appears to lean towards support from legislators focused on combating family violence. Advocates for the bill argue that by imposing stricter penalties, the legislation will deter potential offenders and provide enhanced protection for victims. Critics, however, might voice concerns regarding the balance between criminalization and rehabilitative measures, questioning whether the strict penalties may lead to unintended consequences for offenders who may benefit from supportive interventions rather than incarceration.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 3133 center on the nuances of legal definitions and the judicial process. While many support the intention behind escalating penalties for repeat offenders, skepticism exists about the practicality of enforcing these changes without additional support structures in place for those facing charges. The effectiveness of the bill could also be challenged by arguments about increasing burdens on the judicial system and potential biases in the handling of family violence cases, highlighting the need for ongoing discussions about the intersection of law, social support, and community safety.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3032

Relating to periods of detention following arrest and increasing the criminal penalties for violation of certain court orders and conditions of bond.

TX HB1784

Relating to certain requirements of protective orders and conditions of release on bond and to the criminal penalties for violating those requirements and conditions.

TX SB1318

Relating to the release of defendants on bail, the duties of a magistrate in certain criminal proceedings, and the notice provided by peace officers to adult victims of family violence.

TX HB3400

Relating to the release of defendants on bail, the duties of a magistrate in certain criminal proceedings, and the appointment of certain criminal law hearing officers; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB1449

Relating to certain technical violations of conditions of community supervision.

TX HB1589

Relating to increasing the criminal penalty for certain family violence assaults.

TX HB3256

Relating to conditions of release on bond for a felony offense involving family violence.

TX HB1383

Relating to procedures in a criminal case after a defendant is found competent to stand trial and to consequences arising from certain violations of those procedures.

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 HB1807

Relating to the offense of failure to comply with an order from a fire marshal and the authority of certain county peace officers to issue citations for certain violations; changing a criminal penalty.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.