Honorable Abel Herrero, Chair, House Committee on Criminal Jurisprudence
FROM:
Ursula Parks, Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:
HB865 by Dutton (Relating to the recording of certain grand jury proceedings that involve a peace officer.), As Introduced
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
The bill would amend the Code of Criminal Procedure to require the recording, by a stenographer or an electronic device, of certain grand jury proceedings when a peace officer is accused of an offense allegedly committed during the course and scope of his or her duties. This recording would be made public if the grand jury finds no bill of indictment. Based on the analysis of the Office of Court Administration and Department of Public Safety, duties and responsibilities associated with implementing the provisions of the bill could be accomplished by utilizing existing resources.
Local Government Impact
The Office of Court Administration estimates there could be a cost to counties to purchase recording equipment or hire a stenographer, however the agency estimates these costs would be minimal. Therefore, no significant fiscal implication to units of local government is anticipated.
Source Agencies:
212 Office of Court Administration, Texas Judicial Council, 405 Department of Public Safety