Texas House Bill HB328

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

• Filed: 11/18/14

Caption

Relating to the punishment for the offense of attempted murder.

Impact

One of the pivotal changes brought forth by HB328 is the introduction of heightened punishment for specific cases of attempted murder, particularly those that lead to serious bodily injuries resulting in a persistent vegetative state. In such circumstances, the punishment can increase to a maximum of 40 years of imprisonment. This change reflects a shift towards more stringent accountability for severe outcomes stemming from attempted murder, demonstrating a commitment to address violent crime more effectively within the state.

Summary

House Bill 328 is a legislative act aimed at modifying the punishment parameters for the offense of attempted murder within the Texas Penal Code. The bill introduces an amendment to Section 15.01, which outlines the existing classifications and consequences related to attempted murder offenses. Notably, it stipulates that an attempted offense will be categorized one degree lower than the attempted offense, except in certain circumstances specified in the new subsection.

Contention

This bill's increased penalties may raise concerns among legal advocates regarding the potential for disproportionate sentencing, especially when considering cases that might not have led to fatal outcomes but still involve significant consequences. Critics may argue that the bill could exacerbate existing issues in the criminal justice system, including mass incarceration or overly harsh penalties for individuals involved in serious but non-fatal offenses. The debate around HB328 touches upon the broader theme of how society balances justice and rehabilitation in cases of violent crime.