The one-sided criminal discovery bill requiring open files of prosecutors - SB 1611 by Duncan/Ellis, the so-called "Michael Morton Act," carried in the House by Rep. Senfronia Thompson - has been set for a vote on the floor of the Texas House of Representatives on Monday. A couple of prosecutors opposed the bill in committee and some of the same folks have been grousing about it online. But that didn't stop the House Judiciary and Civil Jurisprudence Committee from recommending it unanimously. For the most part, the DAs have reined in most of the usual critics and the Harris County DA's decision to support the bill went a long way toward dispelling allegations that it's soft on crime. Without question, this is the most significant criminal-justice legislation of the 83rd Texas Legislature.
Also up on Monday's House floor calendar: SB 825 by Whitmire eliminating secret "private" sanctions by the state bar for sustained grievances against prosecutors for Brady violations. This bill was also pitched as an homage to Michael Morton so one would expect the man of the season to be on hand for the festivities.
Grits had earlier recommended both these bills for speedy passage so I'm glad to see them prioritized.
MORE (May 12): See Brandi Grissom's preview of Monday's vote from the Texas Tribune, including a conversation with the attorney who argued Brady v. Maryland (he lost the case but SCOTUS created the rule) and Barry Scheck of the national Innocence Project.
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