House Bill No. by Representative Martinez amends several articles of the Code of Criminal Procedure to enhance the processes surrounding bail and the notification of arrest warrants. Key changes include the requirement for defendants and sureties to provide both a mailing address and an electronic mail address for receiving notices related to their bail obligations. The bill also mandates that if a defendant fails to appear in court, the court must issue an arrest warrant and notify the relevant parties, including the agent or bondsman, within 30 days. Additionally, it establishes that failure to send this notice within 60 days will release the surety from all obligations under the bail undertaking.

The bill repeals Article 334, which previously addressed notice of warrants for arrest, and integrates its provisions into Article 333, streamlining the process. It also prohibits the prosecuting attorney from collecting court costs or attorney fees when filing a rule to show cause for bond forfeiture. Other technical revisions are made to remove outdated cross-references, ensuring that the law is current and clear. Overall, the bill aims to improve the efficiency and clarity of the bail process while ensuring that all parties are adequately informed of their obligations and rights.

Statutes affected:
HB772 Original: 15:15(A)(1)