TITLE: Relating to the enforcement of the rights of crime victims.

SUMMARY: Relating to the enforcement of the rights of crime victims.

FULL TEXT:
AN ACT relating to the enforcement of the rights of crime victims. BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS: SECTION 1. Article 56A.051, Code of Criminal Procedure, is amended by adding Subsections (d), (e), (f), and (g) to read as follows: (d) A victim, guardian of a victim, or close relative of a deceased victim may assert and seek enforcement of any right granted by this subchapter, either orally or in writing. (e) The attorney representing the state or an attorney representing a victim, guardian of a victim, or close relative of a deceased victim may assert a right granted by this subchapter to the victim, guardian, or relative, or request enforcement of the right, by filing a motion, petition for a writ of mandamus, or action for injunctive or declaratory relief in a trial or appellate court with jurisdiction over the case. (f) If the court determines, after a hearing at which all parties have an opportunity to testify, that a right of a victim, guardian of a victim, or close relative of a deceased victim has been violated, the court shall order that the victim, guardian, or relative be provided the right to which the victim, guardian, or relative was entitled. (g) A remedy ordered under Subsection (f) may not change the: (1) verdict; (2) sentence imposed; (3) terms of an accepted plea bargain agreement; or (4) outcome of a parole hearing. SECTION 2. This Act takes effect September 1, 2023.