SRC-JBJ S.B. 1221 77(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center S.B. 1221 77R4310 YDB-DBy: Whitmire Criminal Justice 4/2/2001 As Filed DIGEST AND PURPOSE The computerized voice stress analyzer, which is used to detect changes in a person's voice caused by stress, is one instrument which purports to detect deception. Current Texas law prohibits the use of any technology which purports to detect deception except for the use of the polygraph. As proposed, S.B. 1221 authorizes certain licensed peace officers to utilize voice stress analysis technology while conducting official criminal investigations. 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 Chapter 1703E, Occupations Code, by adding Section 1703.2015, as follows: Sec. 1703.2015. VOICE STRESS ANALYZER EXEMPTION FOR PEACE OFFICERS. (a) Provides that a licensed peace officer who is a certified voice stress examiner is not required to be licensed under this chapter to use a computerized voice stress analyzer during a criminal investigation. (b) Requires that for the purposes of this section, the certification to use a voice stress analyzer must be made by the company who manufactured the voice stress analyzer or the governmental entity who appointed or employs the peace officer. SECTION 2. Effective date: Upon passage or September 1, 2001.