Bill: HB 3237, 85(R) - 2017
Committee
House Criminal Jurisprudence
2nd Chamber Committee
Senate Criminal Justice
Vote Recommendation
| Vote Recommendation |
Economic Freedom |
Property Rights |
Personal Responsibility |
Limited Government |
Individual Liberty |
| Neutral |
Neutral |
Neutral |
Neutral |
Neutral |
Neutral |
Author(s)
Joe Moody
Sponsor(s)
John Whitmire
Bill Caption
Relating to the return of executed search warrants and the public
availability of search warrant affidavits.
Fiscal Notes
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
Bill Analysis
Under current law, a magistrate may not issue a search warrant unless there is probable cause set forth in a sworn affidavit. This bill would formalize that the affidavit becomes public information when the search warrant is executed, unless otherwise restricted by law.
Vote Recommendation Notes
This bill merely clarifies what is already law with respect to when the affidavit for a search warrant becomes public information. Therefore it does not have an impact on our liberty principles and we will remain neutral.
Organizations Supporting
Houston Police Department
Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association
Texas Municipal Police Association
Texas Press Association
