Exonerees, Ellis to Hold Press Conference Urging Quick Action on Justice Bills

Advocates will urge legislative action on key innocence reforms as time ticks away

(AUSTIN)—Senator Rodney Ellis (D-Houston) and Texas exonerees will hold a press conference tomorrow, Tuesday, May 10, 2011 at 10:00 a.m., in the Lt. Governor's Press Room, to urge the Texas Legislature to act on key innocence reforms like SB 121 and SB 122 before time runs out on the 82nd Legislative Session.

SB 121 requires all Texas law enforcement agencies in the state to adopt written eyewitness identification policies based on proven best practices by September 1, 2012. The current bill was negotiated or endorsed by DA's, defense lawyers, the police, members of the Texas judiciary, and the Governor's office.

SB 122 ensures that if there is DNA evidence available to prove someone's innocence, it can and will be tested.

WHAT:	DNA, Innocence Press Conference
WHO:	Senator Rodney Ellis Cory Session and Texas Exonerees
WHEN:	Tuesday, May 10, 2011 upon adjournment
WHERE:	Senate Press Room, 2E.9 Texas Capitol