Texas House Bill HB717

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the duties of and the application of the professional prosecutors law to the county attorney in Lavaca County and to the duties of the district attorney for the 25th Judicial District.

Impact

The bill modifies existing statutes under the Government Code, specifically amending Section 43.112 and introducing Section 45.243. The significant change allows the county attorney of Lavaca County to perform duties traditionally attributed to district attorneys. This shift in responsibility is intended to enhance the efficacy of legal proceedings by centralizing prosecutorial powers within local governance structures.

Summary

House Bill 717 relates to the responsibilities of the county attorney in Lavaca County and the application of the professional prosecutors law to the district attorney of the 25th Judicial District. The bill aims to delineate the scope of duties carried out by the county attorney and positions them on equal footing with district attorneys concerning the prosecution of criminal cases in Lavaca County. This amendment seeks to ensure a uniform application of prosecutorial duties across judicial districts.

Conclusion

The bill was passed unanimously by the House on May 1, 2013, and moved to the Senate for further consideration. If enacted, it would become effective on September 1, 2013, while expanding the role and necessary powers of the county attorney in Lavaca County, ultimately impacting how prosecution duties are fulfilled in the area.

Contention

There may be points of contention surrounding HB 717, particularly regarding the funding from external sources. The bill allows the county attorney or the Commissioners Court of Lavaca County to accept gifts and grants to support the operation of the county attorney's office. Opponents may express concerns about the implications of such funding on the independence of the county attorney's office and potential conflicts of interest that could arise from external financial contributions.