Honorable John Whitmire, Chair, Senate Committee on Criminal Justice
FROM:
John Keel, Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:
HB830 by Hughes (Relating to the number of jurors required for certain district court criminal trials.), As Engrossed
No fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
The bill would amend Government Code, Chapter 25 relating to the the number of jurors required for certain district court criminal trials. The bill would require misdemeanor cases in district courts to have juries consisting of six members, rather than twelve. The bill would take effect January 1, 2004, but only if the constitutional amendment proposed by the 78th Legislature, Regular Session, 2003, permitting six-person juries in district court misdemeanor trials is approved by the voters. If that amendment is not approved by the voters, the bill would not take effect.
Local Government Impact
No significant fiscal implication to units of local government is anticipated. Although few district courts hear misdemeanor cases, there should be some savings for local governments in jury fees because of the reduction in the numbers of jurors.
Source Agencies:
212 Office of Court Administration, Texas Judicial Council