BILL ANALYSIS
By: Seliger
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE
Currently, the terms "reckless driving" and "deadly conduct" are not included in the definition of "criminally injurious conduct." For purposes of determining eligibility for compensation through the Crime Victims' Compensation Fund, these offenses are generally ruled to fall under the definition of "aggravated assault."
As proposed, S.B. 157 adds the offenses of "reckless driving" and "deadly conduct" to the definition of "criminally injurious conduct," in order to clarify the language and ensure eligibility for compensation through the Crime Victims' Compensation Fund for victims of these crimes.
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
Senate Bill 157 amends the Code of Criminal Procedure to redefine "criminally injurious conduct" to include conduct that is in violation of Section 545.157 or 545.401, Transportation Code, and results in bodily injury or death. The bill also adds conduct that is in violation of Section 22.05 (Deadly Conduct), Penal Code, to the definition of "criminally injurious conduct."
Makes application of this Act prospective.
EFFECTIVE DATE
September 1, 2007.