Texas Senate Bill SB537

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to a fee imposed as a condition of community supervision for certain sexual offenses involving a child victim.

Impact

If enacted, the bill will increase the financial obligations for individuals on community supervision for child-related sexual offenses. This fee is intended to support advocacy centers that provide services to child victims, thus aiming to strengthen the safety and support systems for vulnerable populations. The bill emphasizes the state's commitment to addressing the consequences of such crimes and affirms the role of advocacy centers in aiding child victims and their families.

Summary

SB537 seeks to amend existing legislation regarding community supervision for individuals charged with or convicted of specific sexual offenses involving child victims. The bill proposes that judges have the authority to impose a fee of $100 to be directed toward children's advocacy centers whenever community supervision is granted for such offenses. This is a change from the previous regulation which set a maximum fee of $50.

Contention

The proposal to raise the fee may encounter resistance from various stakeholders, including defense advocates who believe that increasing financial obligations on offenders could hinder the rehabilitation process and disproportionately affect low-income offenders. Critics may argue that mandatory fees add further burdens without addressing underlying issues related to offending behaviors, while supporters would likely argue that these funds are necessary for enhancing victim support systems and community safety.

Final_notes

Furthermore, the law clarifies that the changes will only apply to offenses committed after the effective date of the bill, allowing for a smooth transition regarding existing cases and preserving the legal landscape for offenses committed prior to its implementation.