Texas Senate Bill SB2174

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to prosecutorial transparency.

Impact

By requiring public posting of detailed prosecutorial data, SB2174 is expected to influence how prosecutors operate within the state, compelling them to adopt more standardized practices. It aims to provide lawmakers, scholars, and the general public with insights into prosecutorial behaviors and trends, potentially leading to reforms in how justice is administered. The bill also enforces sanctions by limiting funding to offices that fail to comply with the reporting requirements, thus ensuring that the transparency measures are taken seriously and implemented effectively.

Summary

Senate Bill 2174, known as the Prosecutorial Transparency Act, aims to enhance accountability and transparency within prosecutor's offices in Texas. The bill outlines extensive data collection requirements that mandate prosecutorial offices to maintain and publish various information pertaining to criminal cases, including details about defendants such as race, gender, and disability status, as well as the nature of charges, dispositions, and attorney involvement. This transparency initiative is designed to allow for better public oversight of prosecutorial decisions and practices, which can significantly impact the justice system's equity and efficiency.

Contention

While proponents of SB2174 praise its focus on accountability, critics express concerns regarding the potential for privacy violations and misuse of the data collected. Some argue that overly extensive data collection may deter individuals from seeking legal representation, fearing stigmatization based on disclosures about their race or disability status. The discussions around the bill reveal a tension between the need for transparency and the rights of defendants to privacy, especially in sensitive cases. Balancing these interests remains a central point of contention as the bill progresses.