Texas House Bill HB277

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

• Filed: 11/12/14

Caption

Relating to capital murder of a prosecuting attorney or an assistant prosecuting attorney.

Impact

If enacted, this bill is expected to strengthen legal protections for prosecuting attorneys in Texas, making it a capital offense to murder them in retaliation for their work. This change signifies an intense focus on the safety of individuals working in high-stakes legal environments, particularly those involved in prosecuting criminal cases. The implications of this law suggest that there will be harsher penalties for those who commit acts of violence against these legal figures, potentially acting as a deterrent against such heinous crimes.

Summary

House Bill 277, introduced by Representative Ashby, seeks to amend the Penal Code concerning capital murder, specifically targeting the offense of murdering a prosecuting attorney or an assistant prosecuting attorney. The bill proposes to include such actions under the definition of capital murder, thereby elevating the severity of the crime and the corresponding penalties. This legislative change underscores the state's commitment to protecting legal professionals who serve within the justice system, acknowledging the unique risks they face while performing their official duties.

Contention

While the bill is largely framed as a protective measure, it may ignite discussions surrounding the broader implications of classifying crimes targeting specific professions as capital offenses. Critics might raise concerns about the potential for overly punitive measures and the question of whether this creates a hierarchy among victims of violent crimes. Furthermore, the change in law specifically applies to offenses committed on or after its effective date, therefore raising questions about the transitional implications for ongoing cases under existing legal frameworks.