PMWJ S.B. 1385 75(R)    BILL ANALYSIS


JUDICIAL AFFAIRS
S.B. 1385
By: Haywood (Clark)
5-8-97
Committee Report (Unamended)


BACKGROUND 

 Currently, the law does not address the authority of the attorney general
to use videoconferencing technology.  Such technology is used by the
federal courts for the holding of certain court hearings involving prison
inmates.  The state court system is presently studying the installation
and use of such equipment.  Use of such equipment is more efficient,
saving travel time and travel expenses.  This bill will authorize the
office of the attorney general to use videoconferencing technology as a
substitute for personal appearances in certain circumstances. 


PURPOSE

 S.B. 1385 authorizes the office of the attorney general to use
videoconferencing technology as a substitute for personal appearances in
certain circumstances. 


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 adds new Section 402.0213 to the Government Code, as follows:
 Sec.  402.0213.  APPEARANCE THROUGH VIDEOCONFERENCING TECHNOLOGY.
Authorizes the office of the attorney general to use videoconferencing
technology in certain circumstances.  Defines "videoconferencing
technology."  Requires the attorney general to obtain the approval of the
appropriate authority overseeing a proceeding under Subsection (a)(2)
before using videoconferencing technology under this section. 

 SECTION 2. Effective date.

 SECTION 3. Emergency clause.