Relating to the representation of certain indigent applicants for a writ of habeas corpus.

5/21/15 update:

No changes have been made to this bill in the House. The second chamber sponsor is Representative Myra Crownover.

Original chamber analysis:

SB 662 would allow a defendant to access the means to petition the court for their release. Although, this bill would appoint counsel to an indigent defendant, the cost savings from an expedited release could negate the additional expenditures related to appointed counsel. This bill would preserve the individual liberty of defendants to contend before a court that they are confined illegally. We encourage the passage of SB 662.