H.B. 679 78(R)    BILL ANALYSIS


H.B. 679
By: Talton
Corrections
Committee Report (Unamended)



BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE 

Currently, twice-convicted sex offenders have the option of undergoing an
orchiectomy (surgical castration). Since the inception of this option in
1997, only one inmate has elected to undergo this procedure despite the
current existence of around 26,900 incarcerated sex offenders.  The Texas
Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) supplies little to no information
about this option to inmates eligible for this procedure.  HB 679 simply
requires TDCJ to notify all eligible inmates of their legal option for an
orchiectomy.  


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. 

ANALYSIS

The bill amends Section 501.061, Government Code, by adding Subsection
(a-1) which requires the TDCJ institutional division to inform eligible
inmates of their right to undergo an orchiectomy. 


EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2003