TX
Texas House Bill HB1740

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1740

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the administration of veterans treatment court programs, the expunction of arrest records and files for certain participants who successfully complete a program, and the issuance of orders of nondisclosure for participants convicted of a misdemeanor; changing a fee.

Impact

The bill amends existing laws, specifically the Code of Criminal Procedure and the Government Code, to facilitate the expunction of certain criminal records based on participation in veterans treatment court programs. This opens the door for more veterans to benefit from remediation avenues, particularly those suffering from mental health issues or mental disorders related to their military service. The proposed changes are designed to streamline the judicial process concerning these expunctions and emphasize rehabilitation over punishment.

Summary

House Bill 1740 focuses on improving the administration of veterans treatment court programs in Texas. The bill aims to provide a clearer path for veterans and active military members who have been arrested for misdemeanors, allowing them to have their arrest records expunged upon the successful completion of such programs. This legislation introduces significant changes to the processes surrounding the expunction of criminal records for individuals who successfully complete treatment, thereby offering a chance for a fresh start to those affected by their arrests.

Contention

Notably, the bill specifies that those who entered the treatment court program due to a conviction for operating a vehicle while intoxicated causing bodily injury would not be eligible for nondisclosure orders. This aspect of the legislation could become a point of contention, as it balances the need for public safety against the potential for sympathetic treatment of veterans undergoing rehabilitative processes. Such stipulations highlight ongoing debates regarding the treatment of veterans in the judicial system, specifically concerning their unique challenges and circumstances.

Latest HB1740 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

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