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This week I will discuss the interim charges recently issued to the House Committee on Business and Industry and to the House Committee on Corrections. Interim charges are the issues that the Speaker asks committees to study during the time between regular legislative sessions in order to make recommendations for legislation for the following legislative session. The charges are good indicators of what legislation the legislature will take up during the next session. Legislators rely on public input when crafting legislation, and it is important that they hear from people during the interim.
HOUSE COMMITTEE ON BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY:
• Review existing lien laws in Texas and make recommendations for improvement.
• Review the current statutory requirements to obtain real property by adverse
possession in Texas. Recommend any changes to existing law that may be needed to
ensure equitable real estate transfers in the state.
• Examine current deed restriction laws and make recommendations to encourage
efficiency in homeownership and conveyance.
• Monitor the implementation of legislation that was passed during the 82nd session
regarding homeowners associations.
HOUSE COMMITTEE ON CORRECTIONS
• Monitor the implementation of SB 653 (82R), which created the Texas Juvenile
Justice Department. Make any recommendations needed to enhance the integration
of the Texas Youth Commission and the Texas Juvenile Probation Commission.
• Study ways to reduce the number of youth referred to the juvenile justice system. Consider the availability of mental health services, diversion and early intervention programs, and other prevention methods.
• Study and make recommendations about issues related to the certification of juveniles as adults.
• Review current parole supervision strategies to ensure that resources are being used efficiently to maximize the state's need for public safety and rehabilitation.
The House Committee on Business and Industry can be reached at 512-463-0766 and the House Committee on Corrections can be reached at 512-463-0295. For more information on these charges or any other matter of state government, please contact my office by writing to P.O. Box 2910, Austin, TX 78768-2910 or by emailing me at larry.phillips@house.state.tx.us. My district office phone number is (903) 891-7297.