Honorable Will Hartnett, Chair, House Committee on Judicial Affairs
FROM:
John Keel, Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:
HB1140 by Ritter (Relating to the acceptance of a referral fee or gift by certain judges; providing a criminal penalty.), As Introduced
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
The bill would amend Government Code, Chapter 33 to prohibit a judge’s solicitation or acceptance of referral fees or gifts from an attorney or law firm, except in certain circumstances.Additionally, the bill would make the prohibited conduct a Class B misdemeanor and would allow the State Commission on Judicial Conduct to sanction or institute formal proceedings against a judge who violates the new provision. The bill would take effect on September 1, 2003.
Local Government Impact
No significant fiscal implication to units of local government is anticipated.
Source Agencies:
201 Supreme Court of Texas, 242 State Commission on Judicial Conduct