AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT

 

The fundamental importance of a trial by jury in our system of justice is demonstrated by its enshrinement in the 6th and 7th Amendments to the Constitution of the United States, along with Article 1 of the Constitution of Texas, our state bill of rights. The work of juries is extremely important to the function of our democracy and without it many of the liberties and freedoms we have as a society could be in jeopardy.

 

To serve on a jury is to serve one of the most important civic duties in both our state and our nation. A juror's work is an often tough, tiring, and thankless job. However, without it, one of the foundations of our democracy, the judicial system that ensures a safe a free society, would crumble. S.B. 565 designates the first week in May as Jury Appreciation Week to express to those who have served or are currently serving on juries of all kinds that their work is noted and appreciated.

 

S.B. 565 amends current law relating to designating the first week of May as Jury Appreciation Week.

 

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 Subchapter E, Chapter 662, Government  Code, by adding Section 662.155, as follows:

 

Sec. 662.155. JURY APPRECIATION WEEK. Establishes the first seven days in May as Jury Appreciation Week in recognition of the outstanding and important contributions made by Texas citizens who serve as jurors.

 

SECTION 2. Effective date: upon passage or September 1, 2015.