Bill > SB54

This bill modifies the existing Texas Code of Criminal Procedure regarding community supervision (also known as probation) by expanding judges' ability to extend supervision periods when defendants fail to pay fines or costs. Specifically, the bill allows judges to extend community supervision for felony and misdemeanor cases beyond current time limits if the defendant has not paid previously assessed financial obligations. For misdemeanor cases, judges can now extend supervision for any necessary period if the defendant fails to pay restitution and the extension is likely to increase the chances of full payment. For both felony and misdemeanor cases, before extending supervision due to unpaid fines or costs, judges must hold a hearing to determine that the defendant has the financial resources to pay and that an extension would likely result in full payment. The bill caps any such extension at an additional two years beyond the existing maximum supervision period (10 years for felonies, 3 years for misdemeanors). The changes apply to all individuals on community supervision on or after the bill's effective date, which is September 1, 2025, regardless of when they were initially placed on supervision.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB54