Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB2247

Filed

1/30/25

Out of House Committee

Voted on by House

Out of Senate Committee

Voted on by Senate

Governor Action

Bill Becomes Law

Caption

Relating to the creation of a specialty court for individuals who commit family violence; imposing fees for participation.

Impact

The establishment of the family violence court program signifies a notable shift in how the justice system addresses family violence cases. If implemented, it will provide offenders with the opportunity to undergo rehabilitation while possibly having their charges dismissed upon successful completion of the program. The bill stipulates that defendants who complete the program can have their criminal records nondisclosed, thereby incentivizing participation and facilitating reintegration into society. The legislation emphasizes the importance of ongoing monitoring and evaluation to ensure the effectiveness of the implemented services.

Summary

House Bill 2247 proposes the creation of a specialty court program aimed at addressing cases involving individuals who commit family violence. This bill outlines a comprehensive framework for integrating educational and rehabilitative services within the judicial process, specifically targeting the behavior of offenders. By promoting a nonadversarial approach, the bill envisions collaboration between prosecutors and defense attorneys to enhance public safety while protecting the due process rights of program participants.

Contention

While supporters of HB 2247 highlight the potential for reducing recidivism rates and enhancing the safety of victims, concerns may arise regarding how this program will be funded and the criteria for identifying suitable participants. Critics may argue about the implications of allowing charges to be dismissed, potentially undermining accountability for those who commit acts of violence. Discussions surrounding the bill could center on ensuring adequate resources for educational and rehabilitative services, as well as the protection of victims' interests throughout the process.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

Chapter 1. General Provisions
- Section: New Section

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1977

Relating to the creation of a pretrial intervention program for certain youth offenders; authorizing a fee.

TX HB19

Relating to the creation of a specialty trial court to hear certain cases; authorizing fees.

TX SB27

Relating to the creation of a specialty trial court to hear certain cases; authorizing fees.

TX SB1179

Relating to sexually violent predators and the prosecution of certain offenses involving prohibited items at correctional or civil commitment facilities; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB252

Relating to the eligibility for an order of nondisclosure of criminal history record information of a criminal defendant who has successfully completed a specialty court program.

TX HB1728

Relating to the release on bail of certain defendants accused of committing a felony offense and the criminal consequences of committing a felony while released on bail for a prior felony; creating a criminal offense; increasing the minimum term of imprisonment for certain felonies; changing eligibility for deferred adjudication community supervision, mandatory supervision, and parole.

TX HB1017

Relating to an affirmative finding of family violence entered in the trial of certain offenses.

TX HB3186

Relating to youth diversion strategies and procedures for children accused of certain fine-only offenses in municipal and justice courts and related criminal justice matters; authorizing fees.

TX SB1505

Relating to youth diversion strategies and procedures for children accused of certain fine-only offenses in municipal and justice courts and related criminal justice matters; authorizing fees.

TX HB4886