Honorable Abel Herrero, Chair, House Committee on Criminal Jurisprudence
FROM:
Ursula Parks, Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:
HB3893 by Canales (Relating to the recording and disclosure of certain grand jury proceedings that involve a governmental employee.), As Introduced
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
The bill would amend the Code of Criminal Procedure to require that grand jury proceedings be recorded either by a stenographer or by an electronic device if the proceeding involves a suspect who is employed by the state or a political subdivision and is accused of committing an offense during the course and scope of his or her employment. The record would be made public if the grand jury found no bill of indictment.
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
There could be a cost to counties to purchase recording equipment or hire a stenographer, however 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