BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 4754

By: Lopez

Corrections

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Concerns have been raised that parole officers may not be able to comply with certain caseload standards and that high caseloads may make it difficult for parole officers to make necessary visits to parolees, which in turn could lead to increased recidivism and costs to taxpayers. It has been suggested that detailed data must be collected to understand and address this issue. H.B. 4754 provides for a study on parole officer caseloads.   

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. 4754 requires the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) to conduct a study relating to parole officer caseloads and how they are administered. The bill requires TDCJ, not later than September 1, 2020, to prepare and submit to the legislature a written report that summarizes the results of the study. The bill's provisions expire December 31, 2020.

EFFECTIVE DATE

On passage, or, if the bill does not receive the necessary vote, September 1, 2019.