Texas House Bill HB3014

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the right of one immediate family member of certain deceased peace officers to make an oral statement regarding the terms of a plea bargain agreement.

Impact

The introduction of HB 3014 represents a notable shift in how victim impact statements can be utilized within the criminal justice system. This bill requires that if a peace officer dies due to alleged criminal conduct, the family must be notified of any plea bargain agreements in the related case. Furthermore, it mandates that the court must take into consideration any oral statements made by the designated family member prior to sentencing, thus giving victims' families a more active role in the judicial process.

Summary

House Bill 3014 relates to the rights of immediate family members of certain deceased peace officers to deliver an oral statement regarding plea bargain agreements in court. Specifically, the bill empowers one immediate family member to express support or opposition to the terms of a plea bargain before a judge before the defendant is sentenced. This legislative measure recognizes the importance of the family's input during legal proceedings following the loss of peace officers in the line of duty.

Conclusion

House Bill 3014 is designed to enhance the role of families of deceased peace officers in judicial proceedings concerning plea bargains. By formally integrating their voices into the court process, the bill aims to provide a measure of justice and recognition to families who have suffered the loss of their loved ones while serving in law enforcement. The outcome of this bill will potentially establish a precedent for how victim impact and family opinions are regarded in criminal cases.

Contention

While the bill aims to honor and include the voices of families of fallen peace officers, there may be concerns regarding its implications for defendants' rights. Opponents could argue that allowing an oral statement by a family member into sentencing could potentially bias the court or complicate the judicial process. Moreover, provisions must ensure that the rights of defendants are upheld, as the law introduces an opportunity for cross-examination by the defense regarding the family member’s statement.