Texas House Bill HB1006

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the requisites of a bail bond given by certain defendants.

Impact

The implementation of HB1006 will affect the procedures related to bail bond execution in Texas, particularly for defendants charged with offenses such as human trafficking and certain sexual offenses. By adding these requirements, the law aims to promote transparency and accountability within the bail bonding process. This amendment is expected to assist law enforcement and judicial entities in tracking defendants more effectively, thereby addressing concerns linked to bail evasion and ensuring higher compliance with the terms of bail.

Summary

House Bill 1006 introduces new requisites for bail bonds provided by certain defendants in Texas. Specifically, the bill mandates that bail bonds for defendants charged with specific offenses must include additional information such as the address, identification number, and the state of issuance from a valid driver's license or identification card for both the defendant and any surety. This change aims to enhance the identification process associated with bail bonds, ensuring that the individuals involved in the bond are easily verifiable.

Contention

While the bill may not possess significant opposition given its focus on procedural enhancement, there are concerns related to the additional burden it may impose on defendants and sureties. Critics argue that the requirement for extra identification elements could delay the bail process, thus impacting individuals who are awaiting trial and may not have immediate access to these documents. Additionally, there remains ongoing discussion regarding whether these measures effectively address broader issues within the bail system, such as equity and access to justice.