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Committee approves bill to require timely notice to sureties and prosecutors when defendants fail to appear
Summary
House Bill 143, requiring clerks to notify prosecutors, defendants and sureties within 60 days of a defendant's failure to appear and permitting bondsmen to opt in to electronic notice, was reported favorably by the committee.
House Bill 143, a measure aimed at improving notification in the bail process, moved forward from the Senate Judiciary C committee after supporters said the bill strengthens communication between clerks, prosecutors and sureties and could reduce delays and taxpayer costs.
Representative Menon, the sponsor, told the committee HB 143 requires clerks to notify prosecutors, defendants and sureties within 60 days when a defendant fails to appear, by mail or electronically. The bill also allows bondsmen to opt in for faster electronic notice.
Steve Adams of the Bail Agents Association testified in support and said the bill creates an avenue for bail companies to receive certified electronic notice and improve service of process for sureties. Representatives of bail-underwriting and bonding companies also registered support.
Senators recorded no opposition cards in the hearing. Senator Abraham moved to report HB 143 favorably and there was no objection; the committee recorded the bill as reported favorably.
Sponsors said the bill will improve communication, protect sureties who take on financial risk, reduce court delays and help keep the bail system more efficient. The measure will proceed to the Senate floor as reported by the committee.
