Relating to defendants restricted to the operation of a vehicle equipped with an ignition interlock device or required to submit to alcohol monitoring and establishing a central database of those defendants.
Impact
The bill amends several provisions within the Code of Criminal Procedure and the Transportation Code to create a systematic approach to how restrictions on defendants are reported and tracked. Specifically, it addresses scenarios of bond violation and community supervision requirements, imposing a reporting obligation on magistrates and court clerks to submit relevant information to the central database. The effective implementation of this bill is expected to reduce instances of violations associated with alcohol monitoring and reinforce adherence to court orders, thereby enhancing public safety.
Summary
House Bill 2733 establishes new provisions relating to defendants who are restricted to operating a vehicle equipped with an ignition interlock device or required to submit to alcohol monitoring as part of their release conditions. The bill introduces a central database managed by the Department of Public Safety to monitor compliance among these defendants. This initiative aims to improve accountability and streamline information sharing among law enforcement, judicial systems, and monitoring agencies regarding individuals accused of alcohol-related offenses.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 2733 appears to be largely supportive among legislators emphasizing public safety and accountability. Advocates argue that establishing a central database will facilitate timely interventions and modifications to supervision conditions when violations occur. Conversely, concerns may arise regarding the confidentiality of the information handled in the database and the implications for defendants' rights.
Contention
While the bill primarily targets public safety enhancement, some points of contention may include how data is managed within the central database, the responsibility of defendants regarding the costs of ignition interlock devices, and the potential for increased penal measures if defendants fail to comply with monitoring requirements. Additionally, some stakeholders might voice concerns about the adequacy of support for defendants unable to meet financial responsibilities imposed by the court.
Relating to the offense of providing or requesting or allowing another to provide a breath specimen for an ignition interlock device; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to the release of defendants on bail, the duties of a magistrate in certain criminal proceedings, and the notice provided by peace officers to adult victims of family violence.
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.
Relating to a hearing for an alleged violation of community supervision by a defendant and the manner in which that defendant is required to appear before the court.
Relating to required alcohol monitoring and ignition interlock devices ordered by a court and a central database of those orders; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to a central database containing information about defendants required to have an ignition interlock device installed on a vehicle and local law enforcement access to that database through a mobile data terminal.
Relating to the creation of a central database containing information about defendants required to have an ignition interlock device installed on a motor vehicle and submission of information to and access to information in that database.
Relating to the reporting of and access to information about defendants restricted to the operation of a motor vehicle with an ignition interlock device.