| Vote Recommendation | Economic Freedom | Property Rights | Personal Responsibility | Limited Government | Individual Liberty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yes | Neutral | Neutral | Neutral | Positive | Neutral |
Relating to the use of video teleconferencing for testimony of a forensic analyst in a criminal proceeding.
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
SB 1125 would authorize the testimony of a forensic analyst, in a criminal proceeding in which a forensic analyst is required to testify, to be conducted by video teleconferencing rather than in-person if: (1) the use of video teleconferencing is approved by the court after notice to all parties; (2) the video teleconferencing is coordinated in advance to ensure proper scheduling and equipment compatibility and reliability; and (3) a method of electronically transmitting documents related to the proceedings is available at both the location at which the witness is testifying and in court.
Texas Action supports SB 1125 because it promotes limited government. Allowing for video teleconferencing would be a much more time and cost-efficient way for forensic scientists working in publicly-funded labs to use their resources. This is especially needed in light of the statewide backlogs in evidence testing.