Bill

SB 394

83(R) - 2013
Criminal Justice

Vote Recommendation

Yes
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Positive

Author(s)

Royce West

Bill Caption

Relating to restricting access to records of children convicted of or receiving deferred disposition for certain fine-only misdemeanors.

Fiscal Notes

No significant fiscal implication is anticipated on the State or local governments.

Bill Analysis

Summary: During the 82nd Legislature, HB 961 established that the records of minors convicted of some fine-only Class C misdemeanors are confidential. However, some parties note that additional clarification is needed. SB 394 would make all juvenile records regarding fine-only misdemeanors, other than traffic violations, confidential. Additionally, this bill would expand the confidentiality for minors who receive received deferred prosecution.

Analysis: SB 394 clarifies and expands which juveniles' records are confidential. This bill advances the notion that once an individual has paid the price for a crime, the individual is allowed to start fresh, particularly when those crimes are committed by minors. We recommend voting YES on SB 394.