Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SJR49

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Sent toSOS
 
Proposed Const. Amend.
 

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the denial of bail for an illegal alien charged with an offense punishable as a felony.

Impact

If enacted, SJR49 would significantly alter the legal treatment of illegal aliens facing felony charges in Texas. By denying bail pending trial, the resolution aims to ensure that individuals who do not have legal status are held accountable for their actions while also addressing concerns over public safety and judicial integrity. This proposed amendment would amend Article I of the Texas Constitution by adding Section 11e. The implications of such a change could lead to an increase in the number of illegal aliens held in detention awaiting trial, impacting the state's judicial system and overall legal approach to immigration issues.

Summary

SJR49 is a joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Texas Constitution that mandates the denial of bail for illegal aliens who are charged with felonies. Specifically, the amendment defines 'illegal alien' as individuals who have entered the country without proper inspection or who have failed to maintain their nonimmigrant status. It establishes a legal framework wherein a judge or magistrate can deny bail upon determining that there is probable cause for the felony charges against the individual.

Contention

The proposed amendment has sparked considerable debate concerning its implications for civil rights and the treatment of individuals based on their immigration status. Proponents argue that the amendment is vital for maintaining public safety and ensuring that those accused of serious crimes do not escape justice. Conversely, opponents raise concerns that the measure could lead to the unjust detention of individuals who may not pose any threat to society, suggesting that it undermines due process and reinforces stigmas associated with illegal immigration. Critics also contend that it could disproportionately affect marginalized communities and exacerbate tensions surrounding immigration policy in the state.

Companion Bills

TX SJR1

Same As Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the denial of bail under certain circumstances for illegal aliens charged with certain offenses punishable as a felony.

TX HJR16

Identical Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the denial of bail for an illegal alien charged with an offense punishable as a felony.

Previously Filed As

TX HJR16

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the denial of bail for an illegal alien charged with an offense punishable as a felony.

TX SJR1

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the denial of bail under certain circumstances for illegal aliens charged with certain offenses punishable as a felony.

TX SJR5

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the denial of bail under certain circumstances to persons accused of certain offenses punishable as a felony.

TX SJR87

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the denial of bail to persons accused of certain offenses punishable as a felony who have previously been convicted of or who were released on bail for certain offenses punishable as a felony at the time of the new offense.

TX HJR84

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to set a minimum amount of monetary bond for persons charged with certain felony offenses involving violence and requiring the denial of bail to a person accused of committing a felony while released on bail for a prior felony under most circumstances.

TX HB348

Bail; pretrial hearing for illegal aliens charged with violent offenses, required; presumption of flight risk, established

TX SB1099

Relating to increasing the criminal penalty for certain offenses committed by an illegal alien.

TX SB426

To Create The Defense Against Criminal Illegals Act; And To Establish Enhanced Penalties For Illegal Aliens Who Commit Serious Felonies Involving Violence.

TX SJR17

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the denial of bail under limited circumstances to a person accused of certain violent or sexual offenses or of continuous trafficking of persons.

TX HJR15

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the denial of bail under limited circumstances to a person accused of certain violent or sexual offenses or of continuous trafficking of persons.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.