[2015 Session] Eliminate Penalties for the Smallest Drug Possession Offenses
Policy Background:
Possession of less than a gram of a controlled substance — the equivalent of less than a sugar packet — is a state jail felony in Texas, punishable by up to two years in confinement and a fine of $10,000. This saddles convicted men and women with a lifelong felony record, potentially limiting their access to housing, employment, and other assistance.
[2015 Session] Reclassify Certain Nonviolent Misdemeanor and Felony Offenses
Policy Background:
Texas spends billions of dollars every year incarcerating individuals for offenses that are punished more harshly than necessary. For instance, individuals can receive up to two-year sentences for possessing less than a gram of a controlled substance, repeated prostitution offenses, and property crimes involving outdated monetary thresholds.
[2015 Session] Modify Penalties for the Offense of Driving With an Invalid License
Policy Background:
Currently, the offense of “Driving While License Invalid” (e.g., suspended license) is a fine-only Class C misdemeanor unless it is a person’s second offense, in which case it becomes a Class B misdemeanor and warrants jail time.
[2015 Session] Support Pretrial Services Divisions
Policy Background:
Pretrial Services Divisions assess defendants and help judges by providing them with objective release recommendations that can safely reduce costly jail overcrowding and increase safety and security in our communities.