Bill

SB 2191

86(R) - 2019
Senate Criminal Justice
Senate Criminal Justice
Corrections
Courts
Criminal Procedure

Vote Recommendation

Yes
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Positive
  • Positive

Author(s)

John Whitmire

Bill Caption

Relating to the confinement of a defendant pending trial.

Fiscal Notes

No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.

Bill Analysis

SB 2191 would require that when a judge or magistrate denies a defendant’s release on bail pending trial, the judge or magistrate shall order that the defendant be confined in a jail that is located in this state. Additionally, juveniles would be prevented from being housed in out-of-state facilities either in pre- or post-adjudication. 

Vote Recommendation Notes

Texas Action strongly supports SB 2191 because it advances the principles of limited government and individual rights. An effective and fair criminal justice system is a key role of limited government. Individuals awaiting trial who cannot afford bail should not be further punished by being held in a facility out of state because the prison system is not functioning effectively due to overcrowding. Out-of-state jail outsourcing separates individuals from their families and their support systems sometimes by as much as up to five hours. In addition, this prevents individuals from having readily available access to their constitutionally protected right to legal representation to prepare for their day in court.