Texas House Bill HB3979

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to the supervision by a personal bond office of individuals granted an occupational driver's license; providing for an administrative fee.

Impact

By introducing personal bond offices as a potential supervising entity, the bill is poised to affect how individuals comply with the requirements attached to occupational licenses. These offices will be permitted to charge a monthly administrative fee ranging from $25 to $60, which is a new financial consideration for individuals granted such licenses. This amendment alters the landscape of occupational licensing by introducing a fee structure that may burden some individuals, particularly those who are already navigating restrictions on their driving privileges due to legal issues.

Summary

House Bill 3979 aims to amend existing statutes concerning the supervision of individuals granted an occupational driver's license in Texas. The legislation allows courts to require supervision either by the local community supervision and corrections department or by a newly defined personal bond office. This shift in supervision oversight is significant as it introduces an alternative to traditional community supervision arrangements, promising greater flexibility in how individuals can be monitored under the terms of their occupational licenses.

Contention

Discussions surrounding HB 3979 may likely center on the implications of having personal bond offices manage supervision. Concerns may arise regarding the efficacy and accountability of these offices in comparison to community supervision departments. Moreover, the introduction of administrative fees could spark debates about accessibility and fairness, as these costs might disproportionately affect lower-income individuals. Thus, while the bill aims to modernize and streamline the supervision process, it also opens the door for significant conversations regarding equity in the realm of occupational licensing.