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HB 995

CRIMINAL/PROCEDURE: Provides relative to the electronic access of videotaped statements of protected persons

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Steven Jackson and 5 co-sponsors

HB 995 regulates electronic access to videotaped statements from vulnerable witnesses in criminal cases, balancing discovery rights against protecting protected persons from harm.

Effective date: 08/01/2026.
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Bill Summary · HB 995

Legislative bill overview

HB 995 establishes procedures for electronic access to videotaped statements made by protected persons (typically vulnerable witnesses like children or victims of abuse) in criminal cases. The bill creates a framework governing how law enforcement, prosecutors, defense attorneys, and other authorized parties can access these recordings while maintaining safeguards for the protected person's privacy and security.

Why is this important

Videotaped statements from vulnerable witnesses are critical evidence in criminal prosecutions, but unrestricted access poses risks of witness intimidation, trauma, or privacy violations. This bill balances the accused's right to evidence with protections for vulnerable individuals who may be at risk, while clarifying which parties have legitimate access and under what conditions.

Potential points of contention

  • Defense discovery rights vs. witness protection: Defense attorneys need access to exculpatory evidence, but unrestricted sharing of witness recordings could enable intimidation or harassment of vulnerable people
  • Definition of "protected persons": The scope of who qualifies may affect how broadly or narrowly the law applies, creating potential disputes over eligibility
  • Electronic security standards: The bill may lack sufficient detail on encryption, data storage, and cybersecurity requirements, potentially exposing sensitive recordings to breaches
  • Prosecution discretion: Prosecutors may gain excessive control over access decisions, potentially limiting defendants' ability to fully examine witness credibility

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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