This bill would amend Article 38.01 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, regarding the Texas Forensic Science Commission (Commission). The bill would add new Section 13 to establish the Texas Forensic Science Commission Operating Account as an account in the General Revenue Fund. The commission would deposit into the new account fees collected from the issuance or renewal of forensic analyst licenses. Under provisions of the bill, money in the account could be appropriated only to the commission for the administration and enforcement of this article.
Based on information provided by the Texas Forensic Science Commission (Commission), licensees are required to pay their first annual fee by January 1, 2019. The Commission anticipates receiving the vast majority of fee revenue at the beginning of fiscal year 2019 (September of calendar year 2018). The Commission estimates that 700 examiners will apply during the first year, and anticipate a fee of $100 per examiner. The Commission also anticipates that these examiners will pay an annual renewal fee of $100 beginning in fiscal year 2020. Based on these projections, $70,000 would be deposited in this new General Revenue-Dedicated Account beginning in fiscal year 2019.
This bill would create or recreate a dedicated account in the General Revenue Fund, create or recreate a special or trust fund either within or outside the Treasury, or create a dedicated revenue source. The fund, account, or revenue dedication included in the bill would be subject to funds consolidation review by the current Legislature.
No significant fiscal implication to units of local government is anticipated.