House Committee on Judiciary and Civil Jurisprudence - 87th R.S. (2021)
Committee Members
Charges
- Examine current caseloads and capacity issues for courts handling matters related to the Texas-Mexico border. Evaluate the preparedness of the court system to handle increases in caseloads that may result from the border crisis response and make recommendations to ensure the continued fair and efficient administration of justice in the state in addressing any increased caseloads. (Joint charge with Committee on Juvenile Justice and Family Issues)
- Review the ongoing development of federal laws, rules, and regulations associated with the distribution of the federal pandemic recovery funds, including reporting requirements, and make recommendations to the House Committee on Appropriations for use of the funds to respond to the Texas-Mexico border crisis.
- Monitor the agencies and programs under the Committee's jurisdiction and oversee the implementation of relevant legislation passed by the 87th Legislature. Conduct active oversight of all associated rulemaking and other governmental actions taken to ensure the intended legislative outcome of all legislation.
- Complete study of assigned charges related to the Texas-Mexico border issued in June 2021.
- Study potential solutions to improve the judicial efficiency of the state courts of appeals by analyzing caseloads and making appropriate recommendations.
- Evaluate the use and types of guardianships in Texas and the effect of guardianship on individual rights. Study the financial costs to families related to attaining and maintaining guardianship and compare costs to those associated with guardianship alternatives, such as supported decision-making.
- Study the operations of specialty courts. Determine whether additional specialty courts should be considered to address needs within specific populations. Review specialty court methods and best practices that have been implemented for specialty courts in other states, including their impact on judicial efficiency.
- Study state laws and procedures relating to jury service eligibility, including a review of existing jury exemptions, and make recommendations to ensure the privilege, right, and duty of jury service is protected and promoted.
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