BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 2068

By: Nevárez

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

It has been noted that while exemptions from jury service may be established by officers and employees of the legislative branch of state government, this authorization is not extended to members or employees of the legislative branch of federally recognized tribes in Texas. H.B. 2068 includes tribal council members and legislative employees for certain tribal governments among those who may establish an exemption from jury service.

CRIMINAL JUSTICE IMPACT

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly create a criminal offense, increase the punishment for an existing criminal offense or category of offenses, or change the eligibility of a person for community supervision, parole, or mandatory supervision.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.

ANALYSIS

H.B. 2068 amends the Government Code to include among the persons who may establish an exemption from jury service a documented tribal council member or employee of the legislative branch of tribal government for the Alabama-Coushatta Indian Tribe, the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo (Tigua Indian Tribe), or the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas.   

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2019.