The Texas Senate taking action against criminal illegal aliens on Wednesday, as they passed pieces of legislation that would deny bail to illegals charged with felonies and certain violent offenders.
In what was nearly unanimous votes, the Senate passed Joint Resolution 1, known as "Jocelyn's Law," which would require judges to deny bail to illegals charged with felony offenses. The bill was an emergency item for Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick this session.
The bill is named after Jocelyn Nungaray, who was murdered and sexually assaulted by two Venezuelan illegals in Houston last year.
In addition to SJR1, the Senate also assed Senate Bill 9 almost unanimously. That bill prevents the release of individuals charged with certain violent offenses, including murder, aggravated assault, aggravated kidnapping, and sexual offenses. SB9 would prohibit the release on bail of those with prior felony convictions or parole violations. It would also tighten oversight of charitable bail organizations.
Included in the passages were two amendments. The first aims to assist law enforcement by improving the transmission of information between Sheriff's departments and Texas Department of Public Safety. The other amendment clarified the ability of judges to reassess a defendant's bond if new indictments occur after the bond is set. Both passed by a 31-0 count.
Senate Bill 40 was also passed, which prohibits municipalities and school districts from using public funds to pay nonprofit organizations to subsidize defendants' bail bonds.
They all now head to the Texas House, where Lt. Gov. Patrick has said they will be a key focus.
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