Bill: SB 394, 83(R) - 2013

Vote Recommendation

Vote Recommendation Economic Freedom Property Rights Personal Responsibility Limited Government Individual Liberty
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.

Source URL (retrieved on 04/19/2024 10:04 AM): http://reports.texasaction.com/bill/83r/sb394?print_view=true