Relating to the dissemination of criminal history record information by the Department of Public Safety concerning certain intoxication offenses.
Impact
With this legislation, the transparency surrounding intoxication-related offenses will increase, potentially affecting both individuals with such convictions and the general public. The bill establishes a structured mechanism for the public to find pertinent criminal history information, allowing searches by various criteria such as name, location, and offense details. Additionally, DPS is tasked with removing outdated information from the website under specified circumstances, thus ensuring that the data remains current and relevant.
Summary
House Bill 3800 aims to modify the dissemination of criminal history record information, specifically focusing on certain intoxication offenses in Texas. The bill amends the Government Code to classify criminal history records concerning convictions for select intoxication offenses, such as driving while intoxicated, as public information if the conviction occurred within the past ten years. It mandates that the Department of Public Safety (DPS) maintain an online platform, allowing the public to access this information for free while safeguarding sensitive details, such as the individual's social security number and identifying information of victims.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 3800 appears to be largely supportive among legislators concerned with enhancing public safety and transparency. Proponents argue that allowing public access to such information may deter future offenses and increase accountability among those convicted of intoxication-related crimes. However, some stakeholders may express concern about the potential for stigmatization or unjust consequences for individuals whose offenses occurred long ago, as the bill facilitates easy access to sensitive information that could impact their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
Contention
Notable points of contention regarding HB 3800 could revolve around the balance between public safety and individual privacy rights. Critics might argue that while public access to criminal histories serves an important safety function, it may also lead to unintended social consequences for those with a history of intoxication offenses. Furthermore, discussions might center on the efficiency and effectiveness of the online platform that DPS is required to create, particularly its deployment timeline and ongoing maintenance. Overall, these elements contribute to a complex discourse on criminal justice reform and public policy.
Relating to creating the criminal offense of boating while intoxicated with a child passenger; changing the eligibility for deferred adjudication community supervision.
Relating to the authority of a justice of the peace to issue a search warrant to collect a blood specimen from a person arrested for certain intoxication criminal offenses.
Relating to the authority of a magistrate to issue a search warrant to collect a blood specimen from a person arrested for certain intoxication offenses.