Relating to the issuance of a citation for criminal trespass punishable as a Class B misdemeanor.
Impact
The expected impact of SB1106 is primarily legal in nature, as it revises Article 14.06(d) of the Code of Criminal Procedure. The amendments are designed to create clarity in how citations for certain offenses should be managed by law enforcement. This could lead to more consistent legal practices across various jurisdictions in Texas. Additionally, it ensures that the new provisions apply only to offenses committed after the bill's effective date, preserving the applicability of previous laws to offenses that occurred prior to this new legislation. This transitional provision is crucial in maintaining legal stability for individuals charged under the old laws.
Summary
SB1106 is a legislative proposal aimed at amending the existing provisions related to criminal trespass, specifically focusing on the process of issuing citations for offenses classified as a Class B misdemeanor. This bill seeks to streamline the issuance process and clarify the legal framework that law enforcement must operate under when addressing incidents of criminal trespass. By introducing this bill, the legislature intends to reduce ambiguity regarding the procedure and penalties associated with such offenses, thereby enhancing the overall enforcement of criminal trespass laws in Texas.
Contention
While the text of SB1106 does not indicate significant controversy, any modifications to criminal statutes often engender scrutiny and debate. Some stakeholders may raise concerns over the implications of stricter enforcement or changes in law enforcement practices brought about by the bill. Additionally, questions regarding the adequacy of training for law enforcement officers to implement these changes effectively might also surface. The focus of the discussions surrounding SB1106 appears to be on reinforcing enforcement mechanisms while addressing the concerns of due process and fairness in the issuance of citations for criminal trespass.
Relating to law enforcement policies regarding the issuance of citations for misdemeanors punishable by fine only and to a limitation on the authority to arrest a person for certain fine-only misdemeanors.
Relating to prohibiting the carrying of a firearm by a member of a criminal street gang while engaged in certain criminal activity; creating a criminal offense; changing the eligibility for community supervision.
Relating to prohibiting the possession of a firearm by a person in a criminal street gang; creating a criminal offense; increasing criminal penalties; changing eligibility for community supervision.
Relating to prohibiting the carrying of a handgun by a member of a criminal street gang while engaged in criminal activity; creating a criminal offense; changing the eligibility for community supervision.
Relating to the release of defendants on bail, the duties of a magistrate in certain criminal proceedings, and the appointment of certain criminal law hearing officers; creating a criminal offense.