Texas House Bill HB110

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

• Filed: 11/10/14

Caption

Relating to the punishment by confinement for contempt of court for failure to obey a court order related to truancy.

Impact

If enacted, HB 110 would significantly alter the enforcement of truancy laws by reducing the penalties associated with failing to adhere to court orders. The new provision is intended to emphasize rehabilitation over punitive measures, aiming to steer individuals away from the juvenile justice system. Instead of detention, other interventions may be considered for those adjudicated under this law, potentially leading to a shift in how truancy cases are handled across Texas.

Summary

House Bill 110 aims to amend the current regulations surrounding the punishment for contempt of court, specifically related to truancy. The bill proposes that individuals found in contempt of court for failing to obey a court order concerning truancy should not be punished by confinement in jail or juvenile detention. This change seeks to reform the treatment of individuals in the judicial system and addresses the broader issue of punitive measures for non-compliance with court orders related to school attendance.

Contention

There may be notable contention surrounding HB 110, particularly regarding the balance between maintaining authority in educational settings and providing appropriate avenues for support and rehabilitation. Critics of the bill may voice concerns that removing detention as a punitive response to truancy could undermine the enforcement efforts necessary to encourage school attendance. Conversely, supporters argue that punitive detentions do not effectively address the root causes of truancy and may exacerbate issues within families and communities, discouraging at-risk youth from engaging with educational systems.