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.