Austin, TX - Texas House Democratic Whip Ron Reynolds Released the Following Statement Today After Filing House Bill 854:

"Jordan Baker. Mike Brown. Eric Garner. There are blatant problems with the criminal justice system, and many of you have demanded change. I want change as well.

I am proud to announce the filing of House Bill 854, which would require the appointment of a special prosecutor when there is an officer-involved injury or death.

The special prosecutor, appointed by the Attorney General, would be from a different area than that which is served by the officer.

Texas needs an independent, impartial, specially appointed prosecutor to handle these most sensitive incidents. Fostering trust in the criminal justice system is a worthy reason to change procedure.

We should not be afraid or reluctant to explore new ways of administering justice. The system may never be perfect, but it is nevertheless worthwhile to strive toward that goal. The intent of HB 854 is to take a positive step toward a better criminal justice system in Texas.

Your voices were heard at the rallies, panel discussions, and town halls. This legislation is the next step in the fight. Please urge your representatives to support HB 854, and let us ensure that the lives lost were not in vain."

Ron Reynolds represents Texas House District 27, which encompasses communities of Fort Bend County. Representative Reynolds currently serves as the Democratic Whip of the Texas House Democratic Caucus and a member of the House Committees on Elections and Environmental Regulations.