Texas House Bill HB1314

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the release on bail of, and the reimbursement to a county for certain costs of confining, a person charged with an administrative violation of parole or mandatory supervision.

Impact

The bill has notable implications for how administrative violations of parole are handled in the state. It establishes clearer guidelines for magistrates regarding the conditions under which individuals may be released from custody. By allowing for the possibility of release when an individual has been confined for an extended period solely due to an administrative violation, the bill intends to reduce unnecessary confinement and alleviate some burden on county jails. Moreover, the measure introduces provisions for counties to seek reimbursement for costs associated with confining individuals who are only charged with such violations.

Summary

House Bill 1314 pertains to the release on bail of individuals charged with administrative violations of parole or mandatory supervision in Texas. The bill proposes amendments to the Government Code, specifically focusing on the provisions surrounding the release of these individuals pending hearings related to their violations. A significant aspect of the bill is the requirement that if a person who has been confined for at least 30 days is charged only with an administrative violation, they must be released on a personal bond unless the magistrate deems them a threat to public safety.

Contention

One point of contention surrounding HB 1314 is the balance it seeks to strike between public safety and the rights of individuals facing administrative violations. Critics may argue that the bill could lead to potential risks if individuals deemed not to be a threat to public safety are released without proper oversight. Supporters, however, contend that unnecessary confinement can undermine the rights of individuals who have not committed crimes against persons or property. Therefore, the discussion on the bill reflects broader concerns about the treatment of individuals within the parole system and the associated financial implications for local counties.