Bill

HB 2777

84(R) - 2015
House Criminal Jurisprudence
House Criminal Jurisprudence
Criminal Justice
Criminal Procedure

Vote Recommendation

Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Neutral

Author(s)

Abel Herrero

Bill Caption

Relating to the admissibility of certain evidence in the prosecution of offenses involving family violence and other similar offenses committed against a member of the defendant's family or household.

Fiscal Notes

No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.

The bill would amend the Code of Criminal Procedure authorizing the admissibility of certain evidence in the prosecution of certain assaultive offenses against a member of the defendant's family or household. The bill would make the admissibility of this evidence subject to the Rules of Evidence and other applicable law and would provide that any evidence may be offered that would assist the trier of fact in determining whether the actor committed the offense, including testimony or evidence regarding the nature of the relationship between the actor and the alleged victim. Based on the analysis of the Office of Court Administration, duties and responsibilities associated with implementing the provisions of the bill could be accomplished by utilizing existing resources. 

Bill Analysis

The description provided in the fiscal note adequately and accurately summarizes HB 2777.

Vote Recommendation Notes

This is a procedural bill regarding the handling of evidence in a trial concerning family violence. We do not see a tangible connection between this bill and our liberty principles, therefore we are neutral on HB 2777.