Honorable John Whitmire, Chair, Senate Committee on Criminal Justice
FROM:
Ursula Parks, Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:
HB2150 by Alvarado (Relating to the organization of a grand jury and qualifications for service as a grand juror.), As Engrossed
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
The bill would amend the Code of Criminal Procedure to eliminate the appointment by a district judge of the position of jury commissioner within the process of selection and impaneling of a grand jury. The bill would also eliminate related language pertaining to a jury commissioner and makes changes to the causes for which a challenge to a grand juror may be made. In addition, the bill requires jurors that determine they could be subject to a valid challenge for cause to recuse themselves from grand jury service until the cause no longer exists. A juror that knowingly fails to recuse themselves may be held in contempt of court.
Based on the analysis of the Office of Court Administration, duties and responsibilities associated with implementing the provisions of the bill could be accomplished by utilizing existing resources.
Local Government Impact
No significant fiscal implication to units of local government is anticipated.
Source Agencies:
212 Office of Court Administration, Texas Judicial Council