BILL ANALYSIS



H.B. 2484
By: Solomons
04-19-95
Committee Report (Unamended)


BACKGROUND

Since the last adjustment to the jurisdiction of Class C
misdemeanor theft, the inflationary movement of the economy has
deflated the value of the dollar to the point that $50 is a more
appropriate level for justice and municipal court jurisdiction.

PURPOSE

If enacted, H.B. 2484 would raise theft jurisdiction from $20 to
$50.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly
grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer,
department, agency, or institution.

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1.  Amends Section 31.03(e), Penal Code (GRANTED ON MOTION
OF DEFENDANT), by raising the maximum property value of Class C
misdemeanor theft from $20 to $50 and establishing the jurisdiction
of justice and municipal courts over theft by check where the value
of the property obtained was less than $20.

SECTION 2.

     (a) Change in law made by this Act applies only to an offense
     committed on or after the effective date of this act.

     (b) Makes effect of the Act prospective.

SECTION 3.  Effective date:  September 1, 1995.

SECTION 4. Emergency clause.

SUMMARY OF COMMITTEE ACTION

HB 2484 was considered by the full committee in a public hearing on
April 19, 1995.  The following persons testified on the bill:

     Michael L. O'Neal representing the Texas Municipal Courts
     Association; and James D. Bethke, representing the Texas
     Municipal Courts Education Center.

HB 2484 was reported favorably without amendment, with the
recommendation that it do pass and be printed by a record vote of
6 ayes, 0 nays, 0 pnv, and 3 absent.