SRC-JBJ H.B. 510 77(R)   BILL ANALYSIS


Senate Research Center   H.B. 510
77R6592 ATP-DBy: Olivo (West, Royce)
Criminal Justice
5/3/2001
Engrossed


DIGEST AND PURPOSE 

Many sexual offenses against children involve the use of computers and
several of these offenses involve the possession of child pornography or
the enticement of children over the Internet. Under current Texas law,
property used to commit these offenses is not considered contraband and is
not subject to forfeiture.  H.B. 510 expands the definition of "contraband"
to include property used in the commission of a felony involving the
possession or promotion of child pornography, indecency with a child,
sexual performance by a child, or certain criminal solicitation of a minor
offenses.  

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a
state officer, institution, or agency. 

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1.  Amends Article 59.01(2), Code of Criminal Procedure, to
redefine "contraband." 

SECTION 2.  Effective date: September 1, 2001.
            Makes application of this Act prospective.