Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB2101

Filed
3/9/23  
Out of Senate Committee
4/17/23  
Voted on by Senate
4/27/23  
Out of House Committee
5/5/23  
Voted on by House
5/6/23  
Governor Action
5/19/23  

Caption

Relating to certain notifications related to the rights of crime victims.

Impact

The enactment of SB2101 will significantly affect how victims interact with the justice system. By allowing electronic notifications, the bill provides a more streamlined method for victims to access important information regarding their cases. Stakeholders, including various advocacy groups, welcome this move as it empowers victims with timely information that can help them navigate the complexities of their cases more effectively. The bill is set to improve the overall communication process and victim engagement within the legal framework.

Summary

Senate Bill 2101 focuses on enhancing the communication framework for crime victims in Texas. The bill mandates that law enforcement agencies inform victims of their rights and the status of their cases through various electronic means such as emails, texts, or personal contact. This adoption of modern communication tactics aims to ensure that victims receive timely and relevant updates about their cases, which is essential for their engagement in the judicial process and enhancing their overall experience within the criminal justice system.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB2101 appears to be overwhelmingly positive, with support coming from various advocacy groups specializing in victim rights. These supporters argue that better communication fosters a sense of involvement and security for victims during the often daunting legal process. There is a clear acknowledgment of the need for modernizing notification methods to align with contemporary communication trends, reflecting a broader commitment to improving victim services overall.

Contention

Notable points of contention during the discussions primarily revolved around the implementation of these electronic notifications. Critics raised concerns about potential data privacy issues and the adequacy of resources required to ensure that these notifications reach victims effectively. They expressed the need for safeguards to protect victims' information while ensuring that the system is reliable and accessible to all victims, including those who may not have regular access to electronic devices.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Code Of Criminal Procedure

  • Chapter 56a. Rights Of Crime Victims
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 0525
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 0525
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 0525

Penal Code

  • Chapter 20. Kidnapping, Unlawful Restraint, Andsmuggling Of Persons
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 43. Public Indecency
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 05

Family Code

  • Chapter 71. Definitions
    • Section: New Section

Government Code

  • Chapter 411. Department Of Public Safety Of The State Of Texas
    • Section: 0728

Companion Bills

TX HB4216

Identical Relating to certain notifications related to the rights of crime victims.

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