Texas House Bill HB1897

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to the punishment for certain offenses involving family violence; changing the eligibility for parole and mandatory supervision for those offenses.

Impact

The proposed changes would significantly impact state laws by setting tougher conditions for parole for certain family violence-related convictions. Notably, it mandates that offenders reimburse the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for their confinement expenses, and these costs must be considered when determining community supervision conditions. This financial burden could serve as a disincentive for committing family violence offenses, thereby promoting community safety and reflecting the seriousness of such crimes more appropriately in the legal system.

Summary

House Bill 1897 aims to amend the current penal code concerning family violence offenses. It seeks to update the punishments associated with specific family violence offenses, including altering the eligibility requirements for parole and mandatory supervision. The bill specifically addresses offenses occurring under Section 22.01 of the Penal Code by raising the penalties, particularly for repeat offenders. The overarching goal of this legislation is to enhance the legal framework surrounding family violence and ensure stricter accountability for offenders.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1897 appears to be supportive among those advocating for victim protections and public safety. Advocacy groups and some lawmakers believe that the bill will foster a stronger legal response to family violence, enhancing deterrents for potential offenders. However, there may be concerns from other entities about the implications of mandatory reimbursements, especially regarding the financial strain on indigent offenders and the broader effects on criminal justice reform.

Contention

A primary point of contention lies in the bill's requirement for offenders to reimburse confinement costs, which some critics may argue places undue financial strain on those already facing significant challenges, such as poverty or lack of access to legal support. The bill’s strict stance on parole eligibility for repeat offenses may also raise concerns regarding potential overcrowding in correctional facilities and whether it effectively addresses the root causes of family violence rather than merely imposing punitive measures.