FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DATE: May 21, 2003
CONTACT: Don T. Forse, Jr.
(512) 463-0102

AUSTIN -- On Wednesday, May 21, State Senator Bob Deuell (R-Greenville) announced that Hopkins County could soon be removed from a special court assigned to hear Child Protective Service cases.

"I am happy to say that, as of this morning, my office received personal assurances from Judge John Ovard that Hopkins County will be removed from the special court no later than September 1, 2003," Deuell said. "We will continue to look at legislative options, but I am confident that Hopkins County will be removed from this court in the very near future."

Deuell said he is happy to see this issue finally coming to a successful resolution for the County.

"Early this legislative session, the leadership in Hopkins County said it was imperative the county be removed from the special court assigned to hear CPS cases," Deuell said. "Hopkins County has three locally elected judges willing to hear these cases, and I agree that the county should not have to bear the added costs of an additional court."

Senator Deuell also stated this is a result of a collaborative effort by many parties.

"Since the beginning of this legislative session, I have worked closely with county officials, Rep. Mark Homer's office, and other Senate offices to see this happen" Deuell said. "I am very proud to see everyone's work pay off with a positive resolution."

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