Texas House Bill HB2381

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the release on bail of a person charged with a violation of parole or mandatory supervision.

Impact

By allowing for the release on personal bond under more lenient conditions, HB 2381 aims to reduce the number of individuals who remain in custody solely due to technical violations of parole or supervision. This change has implications for the broader criminal justice system, potentially decreasing overcrowding in jails and allowing individuals to maintain employment and family relationships while awaiting hearings. Additionally, for those arrested after the bill's effective date, the law creates clear criteria that must be met for release, striving to balance the rights of individuals with the need for public safety.

Summary

House Bill 2381 addresses the conditions under which a person charged with a violation of parole or mandatory supervision may be released on bail. The bill modifies existing regulations in the Government Code, particularly Sections 508.254(d) and (e). It mandates that a magistrate shall release an individual on personal bond pending a hearing if the individual is arrested for a new offense but has already been on bond for that offense. This provision is designed to streamline the pre-hearing process for individuals who have committed minor offenses while on parole or supervision.

Contention

One point of contention surrounding the bill could be its approach to public safety and accountability. Critics might argue that the more lenient conditions for release could lead to a perceived lowering of consequences for technical violations, potentially compromising community safety. On the other hand, supporters likely argue that the previous approach disproportionately punishes individuals for minor infractions and that the bill represents a necessary reform of the bail system to focus on rehabilitation rather than punitive measures.