S.B. No. 2878         AN ACT   relating to the operation and administration of and practices and   procedures related to proceedings in the judicial branch of state   government, including court security, court documents and arrest   warrants, document delivery, juvenile boards, constitutional   amendment election challenges, mandatory expunction for certain   persons, record retention, and youth diversion; increasing a   criminal penalty; authorizing fees.          BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:   ARTICLE 1.  DISTRICT COURTS, DISTRICT CLERKS, AND DISTRICT   ATTORNEYS          SECTION 1.01.  Effective January 1, 2027, the heading to   Section 24.127, Government Code, is amended to read as follows:          Sec. 24.127.  522ND [SECOND 25TH] JUDICIAL DISTRICT   ([COLORADO,] GONZALES AND[,] GUADALUPE[, AND LAVACA] COUNTIES).          SECTION 1.02.  Effective January 1, 2027, Section 24.127(a),   Government Code, is amended to read as follows:          (a)  The 522nd [Second 25th] Judicial District is composed of   [Colorado,] Gonzales and[,] Guadalupe[, and Lavaca] counties.          SECTION 1.03.  Section 24.360, Government Code, is amended   to read as follows:          Sec. 24.360.  173RD JUDICIAL DISTRICT (HENDERSON COUNTY).   (a) The 173rd Judicial District is composed of Henderson County.          (b)  The 173rd District Court shall give preference to civil   and family law matters.          SECTION 1.04.  Effective January 1, 2026, the heading to   Section 24.451, Government Code, is amended to read as follows:          Sec. 24.451.  274TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (COMAL[, GUADALUPE,]   AND HAYS COUNTIES).          SECTION 1.05.  Effective January 1, 2026, Sections 24.451(a)   and (c), Government Code, are amended to read as follows:          (a)  The 274th Judicial District is composed of Comal[,   Guadalupe,] and Hays counties.          (c)  The 274th District Court has the same jurisdiction as   the 22nd and the 207th district courts in Comal and Hays counties   [and concurrent jurisdiction with the 25th and Second 25th district   courts in Guadalupe County].          SECTION 1.06.  Section 24.537, Government Code, is amended   by adding Subsection (c) to read as follows:          (c)  The 392nd District Court shall give preference to   criminal cases.          SECTION 1.07.  Section 24.591(c), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (c)  The district clerk serves as clerk of a district court   in all criminal and civil matters, including family matters, except   the county clerk serves as clerk of a district court in Class A and   Class B misdemeanor cases, juvenile matters, probate matters, and   guardianship matters. Each clerk shall establish a separate docket   for a district court [All civil and criminal matters within the   concurrent jurisdiction of the county and district courts must be   filed with the county clerk in the county court.  The county clerk   serves as the clerk of the district court for those matters].          SECTION 1.08.  (a)  Effective September 1, 2026, Subchapter   C, Chapter 24, Government Code, is amended by adding Section   24.60035 to read as follows:          Sec. 24.60035.  490TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (BRAZORIA COUNTY).     The 490th Judicial District is composed of Brazoria County.          (b)  The 490th Judicial District is created on September 1,   2026.          SECTION 1.09.  (a) Effective September 1, 2026, Subchapter   C, Chapter 24, Government Code, is amended by adding Section   24.60037 to read as follows:          Sec. 24.60037.  492ND JUDICIAL DISTRICT (COLORADO AND LAVACA   COUNTIES). The 492nd Judicial District is composed of Colorado and   Lavaca counties.          (b)  The 492nd Judicial District is created on September 1,   2026.          SECTION 1.10.  Section 24.60043(d), Government Code, as   effective October 1, 2025, is amended to read as follows:          (d)  The district clerk serves as the clerk of a district   court in all criminal and civil matters, including family matters,   except the county clerk serves as the clerk of a district court in   Class A and Class B misdemeanor cases, juvenile matters, probate   matters, and guardianship matters. Each clerk shall establish a   separate docket for a district court [All civil and criminal   matters within the concurrent jurisdiction of the county and   district courts must be filed with the county clerk in the county   court.  The county clerk serves as the clerk of the district court   for those matters].          SECTION 1.11.  (a)  Subchapter C, Chapter 24, Government   Code, is amended by adding Sections 24.60046 and 24.60047 to read as   follows:          Sec. 24.60046.  501ST JUDICIAL DISTRICT (FORT BEND COUNTY).     The 501st Judicial District is composed of Fort Bend County.          Sec. 24.60047.  502ND JUDICIAL DISTRICT (FORT BEND COUNTY).     The 502nd Judicial District is composed of Fort Bend County.          (b)  The 501st and 502nd Judicial Districts are created on   September 1, 2025.          SECTION 1.12.  (a)  Subchapter C, Chapter 24, Government   Code, is amended by adding Section 24.60048 to read as follows:          Sec. 24.60048.  503RD JUDICIAL DISTRICT (ROCKWALL COUNTY).     The 503rd Judicial District is composed of Rockwall County.          (b)  The 503rd Judicial District is created on September 1,   2025.          SECTION 1.13.  (a)  Subchapter C, Chapter 24, Government   Code, is amended by adding Section 24.60049 to read as follows:          Sec. 24.60049.  504TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (ELLIS COUNTY).  The   504th Judicial District is composed of Ellis County.          (b)  The 504th Judicial District is created on September 1,   2025.          SECTION 1.14.  (a)  Effective September 1, 2026, Subchapter   C, Chapter 24, Government Code, is amended by adding Section   24.60053 to read as follows:          Sec. 24.60053.  511TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (COMAL COUNTY). The   511th Judicial District is composed of Comal County.          (b)  The 511th Judicial District is created on September 1,   2026.          SECTION 1.15.  (a)  Subchapter C, Chapter 24, Government   Code, is amended by adding Section 24.60054 to read as follows:          Sec. 24.60054.  512TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (WILLIAMSON   COUNTY).  The 512th Judicial District is composed of Williamson   County.          (b)  The 512th Judicial District is created on September 1,   2025.          SECTION 1.16.  (a)  Effective October 1, 2025, Subchapter C,   Chapter 24, Government Code, is amended by adding Sections   24.60055, 24.60056, and 24.60057 to read as follows:          Sec. 24.60055.  513TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (HARRIS COUNTY).   (a) The 513th Judicial District is composed of Harris County.          (b)  The 513th District Court shall give preference to civil   cases.          Sec. 24.60056.  514TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (HARRIS COUNTY).   (a) The 514th Judicial District is composed of Harris County.          (b)  The 514th District Court shall give preference to civil   cases.          Sec. 24.60057.  515TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (HARRIS COUNTY).   (a) The 515th Judicial District is composed of Harris County.          (b)  The 515th District Court shall give preference to civil   cases.          (b)  The 513th, 514th, and 515th District Courts are created   on October 1, 2025.          SECTION 1.17.  (a)  Effective October 1, 2026, Subchapter C,   Chapter 24, Government Code, is amended by adding Sections 24.60058   and 24.60059 to read as follows:          Sec. 24.60058.  516TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (HARRIS COUNTY).   (a) The 516th Judicial District is composed of Harris County.          (b)  The 516th District Court shall give preference to civil   cases.          Sec. 24.60059.  517TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT (HARRIS COUNTY).   (a) The 517th Judicial District is composed of Harris County.          (b)  The 517th District Court shall give preference to civil   cases.          (b)  The 516th and 517th District Courts are created on   October 1, 2026.          SECTION 1.18.  Section 24.911, Government Code, is amended   by adding Subsection (a-2) to read as follows:          (a-2)  Tarrant County Criminal District Court No. 2 shall   give preference to criminal cases.          SECTION 1.19.  Section 24.913, Government Code, is amended   by adding Subsection (e) to read as follows:          (e)  Tarrant County Criminal District Court No. 4 shall give   preference to criminal cases.          SECTION 1.20.  Effective September 1, 2028, Section 43.101,   Government Code, is amended to read as follows:          Sec. 43.101.  1ST JUDICIAL DISTRICT. The voters of [Sabine   and] San Augustine County [counties] elect a district attorney for   the 1st Judicial District who represents the state in the [that]   district courts in that county [court only in those counties].          SECTION 1.21.  (a)  Effective January 1, 2029, Subchapter B,   Chapter 43, Government Code, is amended by adding Section 43.1742   to read as follows:          Sec. 43.1742.  273RD JUDICIAL DISTRICT. The voters of   Sabine County elect a district attorney for the 273rd Judicial   District who represents the state in the district courts in that   county.          (b)  The office of district attorney for the 273rd Judicial   District is created on September 1, 2028.          SECTION 1.22.  Effective January 1, 2029, Section 43.177,   Government Code, is amended to read as follows:          Sec. 43.177.  293RD JUDICIAL DISTRICT. (a) The voters of   Maverick County [the 293rd Judicial District] elect a district   attorney who represents the state in all cases before the [that]   district court.          (b)  The commissioners court of Maverick County [one or more   of the counties comprising the district] may supplement the state   salary of the district attorney and[.  The commissioners court of   each county may] set the amount of supplemental compensation paid   by that county.          (c)  The district attorney of the 293rd Judicial District   also represents the state in all criminal and civil matters that   arise in the 365th Judicial District in Maverick County.          SECTION 1.23.  (a)  Effective January 1, 2029, Subchapter B,   Chapter 43, Government Code, is amended by adding Section 43.1812   to read as follows:          Sec. 43.1812.  365TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT.  The voters of   Dimmit and Zavala Counties elect a district attorney for the 365th   Judicial District who represents the state in all civil and   criminal matters in the district courts having jurisdiction in   those counties.          (b)  The office of district attorney for the 365th Judicial   District is created on January 1, 2029.          (c)  The office of district attorney for the 365th Judicial   District exists for purposes of the primary and general elections   in 2028.          SECTION 1.24.  Effective January 1, 2029, Section 46.002,   Government Code, is amended to read as follows:          Sec. 46.002.  PROSECUTORS SUBJECT TO CHAPTER.  This chapter   applies to the state prosecuting attorney, all county prosecutors,   and the following state prosecutors:                (1)  the district attorneys for Kenedy and Kleberg   Counties and for the 1st, 2nd, 8th, 9th, 18th, 21st, 23rd, 24th,   26th, 27th, 29th, 31st, 32nd, 33rd, 34th, 35th, 36th, 38th, 39th,   42nd, 43rd, 46th, 47th, 49th, 50th, 51st, 52nd, 53rd, 63rd, 64th,   66th, 69th, 70th, 76th, 79th, 81st, 83rd, 84th, 85th, 88th, 90th,   97th, 100th, 105th, 106th, 109th, 110th, 112th, 118th, 119th,   123rd, 132nd, 142nd, 143rd, 145th, 156th, 159th, 173rd, 196th,   198th, 216th, 220th, 229th, 235th, 253rd, 258th, 259th, 266th,   268th, 271st, 273rd, 286th, 287th, 329th, 344th, 349th, 355th,   369th, 452nd, and 506th judicial districts;                (2)  the criminal district attorneys for the counties   of Anderson, Austin, Bastrop, Bexar, Bowie, Brazoria, Caldwell,   Calhoun, Cass, Collin, Comal, Dallas, Deaf Smith, Denton, Eastland,   Fannin, Galveston, Grayson, Gregg, Harrison, Hays, Hidalgo,   Jasper, Jefferson, Kaufman, Kendall, Lubbock, McLennan, Madison,   Medina, Navarro, Newton, Panola, Polk, Randall, Rockwall, San   Jacinto, Smith, Tarrant, Taylor, Tyler, Upshur, Van Zandt,   Victoria, Walker, Waller, Wichita, Wood, and Yoakum; and                (3)  the county attorneys performing the duties of   district attorneys in the counties of Andrews, Aransas, Burleson,   Callahan, Cameron, Castro, Colorado, Crosby, Ellis, Falls,   Fayette, Freestone, Gonzales, Guadalupe, Lamar, Lamb, Lampasas,   Lavaca, Lee, Limestone, Marion, Milam, Morris, Ochiltree, Oldham,   Orange, Rains, Red River, Robertson, Rusk, Swisher, Terry, Webb,   and Willacy.          SECTION 1.25.  Effective January 1, 2026, the following   provisions of the Government Code are repealed:                (1)  Sections 24.126(b) and (d);                (2)  Sections 24.127(b) and (c); and                (3)  Section 24.451(b).   ARTICLE 2.  STATUTORY COUNTY COURTS          SECTION 2.01.  Sections 22.004(b) and (h-1), Government   Code, are amended to read as follows:          (b)  The supreme court from time to time may promulgate a   specific rule or rules of civil procedure, or an amendment or   amendments to a specific rule or rules, to be effective at the time   the supreme court deems expedient in the interest of a proper   administration of justice.  The rules and amendments to rules   remain in effect unless and until disapproved by the   legislature.  The clerk of the supreme court shall file with the   secretary of state the rules or amendments to rules promulgated by   the supreme court under this subsection and shall provide [mail] a   copy of those rules or amendments to rules to each registered member   of the State Bar of Texas not later than the 60th day before the date   on which they become effective.  On receiving a written request   from a member of the legislature, the secretary of state shall   provide the member with electronic notifications when the supreme   court has promulgated rules or amendments to rules under this   section.          (h-1)  In addition to the rules adopted under Subsection (h),   the supreme court shall adopt rules to promote the prompt,   efficient, and cost-effective resolution of civil actions filed in   county courts at law in which the amount in controversy does not   exceed $325,000 [$250,000]. The rules shall balance the need for   lowering discovery costs in these actions against the complexity of   and discovery needs in these actions. The supreme court may not   adopt rules under this subsection that conflict with other   statutory law.          SECTION 2.02.  Section 25.0003(c), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (c)  In addition to other jurisdiction provided by law, a   statutory county court exercising civil jurisdiction concurrent   with the constitutional jurisdiction of the county court has   concurrent jurisdiction with the district court in:                (1)  civil cases in which the matter in controversy   exceeds $500 but does not exceed $325,000 [$250,000], excluding   interest, statutory or punitive damages and penalties, and   attorney's fees and costs, as alleged on the face of the petition;   and                (2)  appeals of final rulings and decisions of the   division of workers' compensation of the Texas Department of   Insurance regarding workers' compensation claims, regardless of   the amount in controversy.          SECTION 2.03.  Section 25.0007(c), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (c)  In a civil case pending in a statutory county court in   which the matter in controversy exceeds $325,000 [$250,000], the   jury shall be composed of 12 members unless all of the parties agree   to a jury composed of a lesser number of jurors.          SECTION 2.04.  Section 25.00212, Government Code, is amended   by amending Subsection (a) and adding Subsection (a-1) to read as   follows:          (a)  At the end of each state fiscal year, the comptroller   shall determine:                (1)  the amounts deposited in the judicial fund under   Section 133.151(c)(1), Local Government Code, from [by] statutory   probate courts fees remitted under Section 133.151(a)(1), Local   Government Code, either:                      (A)  directly to the treasury by the Office of   Court Administration of the Texas Judicial System for fees paid   using the electronic filing system established under Section   72.031; or                      (B)  to the comptroller in the manner provided by   Subchapter B, Chapter 133, Local Government Code, for fees paid to   an officer of a court; and                (2)  the sum of the amount paid under Section   25.0022(e) and the total amounts paid to the counties under Section   25.00211.          (a-1)  If the comptroller determines the total amount   deposited in the judicial fund by statutory probate courts in all   counties as calculated under Subsection (a)(1) exceeds the sum   calculated under Subsection (a)(2) [that sum], the comptroller   [state] shall remit the excess proportionately to each county that   contributed [deposited] a greater amount to [in] the judicial fund   from fees collected by a statutory probate court than the amount the   county was paid under Section 25.00211, as adjusted in an equitable   manner to reflect the differences in the total amounts paid to the   counties under Section 25.00211.          SECTION 2.05.  Section 25.0022(f), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (f)  Each county pays annually to the presiding judge, from   fees allocated to the judicial education and support fund under   [collected pursuant to] Section 135.102 [118.052(2)(A)(vi)], Local   Government Code, the amount of the salary apportioned [to it] as   provided by this section and the other expenses authorized by this   section. The presiding judge shall place each county's payment of   salary and other expenses in an administrative fund, from which the   salary and other expenses are paid. The salary shall be paid in   equal monthly installments.          SECTION 2.06.  Section 25.0062(b), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (b)  The district clerk serves as clerk of a county court at   law in felony cases, in family law cases and proceedings, and in   civil cases in which the matter in controversy exceeds $325,000   [$250,000]. The county clerk serves as clerk of a county court at   law in all other cases. The district clerk shall establish a   separate docket for a county court at law. The commissioners court   shall provide the deputy clerks, bailiffs, and other personnel   necessary to operate a county court at law.          SECTION 2.07.  (a)  Section 25.0092, Government Code, is   amended by amending Subsections (a) and (d) and adding Subsection   (c-1) to read as follows:          (a)  In addition to the jurisdiction provided by Section   25.0003 and other law, and except as limited by Subsection (b), a   county court at law in Atascosa County has concurrent jurisdiction   with the district court in:                (1)  Class A and Class B misdemeanor cases;                (2)  family law matters;                (3)  juvenile matters;                (4)  probate matters; [and]                (5)  appeals from the justice and municipal courts; and                (6)  civil cases in which the matter in controversy   exceeds the maximum amount provided by Section 25.0003 but does not   exceed $1 million, excluding interest, statutory or punitive   damages and penalties, and attorney's fees and costs, as alleged on   the face of the petition, including:                      (A)  a suit to decide the issue of title to real or   personal property;                      (B)  a suit for the enforcement of a lien on real   property;                      (C)  a suit for the trial of the right to property   valued at $500 or more that has been levied on under a writ of   execution, sequestration, or attachment; and                      (D)  a suit for the recovery of real property.          (c-1)  In addition to other assignments provided by law, a   judge of the county court at law in Atascosa County is subject to   assignment under Chapter 74 to any district court in Atascosa   County.  A county court at law judge assigned to a district court   may hear any matter pending in the district court.          (d)  The judge of a county court at law shall be paid as   provided by Section 25.0005 [a total annual salary set by the   commissioners court at an amount that is not less than $1,000 less   than the total annual salary received by a district judge in the   county.  A district judge's or statutory county court judge's total   annual salary does not include contributions and supplements paid   by a county].          (b)  Section 25.0092(a), Government Code, as amended by this   section, applies only to a case filed or proceeding commenced on or   after the effective date of this Act. A case filed or proceeding   commenced before that date is governed by the law in effect on the   date the case was filed or the proceeding was commenced, and the   former law is continued in effect for that purpose.          SECTION 2.08.  Section 25.0212, Government Code, is amended   by amending Subsections (a), (b), and (f) and adding Subsections   (i) and (j) to read as follows:          (a)  In addition to the jurisdiction provided by Section   25.0003 and other law and except as limited by Subsection (b), a   county court at law in Bowie County has, concurrent with the   district court, the jurisdiction provided by the constitution and   by general law for district courts, including concurrent   jurisdiction in:                (1)  specialty court programs;                (2)  misdemeanor cases;                (3)  family law cases and proceedings, including   juvenile matters; and                (4)  probate and guardianship matters.          (b)  A county court at law does not have jurisdiction of:                (1)  felony criminal matters;                (2)  suits on behalf of the state to recover penalties   or escheated property;                (3)  misdemeanors involving official misconduct;                (4)  contested elections; or                (5)  civil cases in which the matter in controversy   exceeds the amount provided in Section 25.0003 [$200,000],   excluding interest, statutory or punitive damages and penalties,   and attorney's fees and costs, as alleged on the face of the   petition.          (f)  The [commissioners court may authorize the judge of a   county court at law to set the] official court reporter of a county   court at law is entitled to compensation, fees, and allowances in   amounts equal to the amounts paid to the official court reporters   serving the district courts in Bowie County, including an annual   salary set by the judge of the county court at law and approved by   the commissioners court [reporter's salary].          (i)  The jury in all civil or criminal matters is composed of   12 members, except in misdemeanor criminal cases and any other case   in which the court has concurrent jurisdiction with county courts   under Section 25.0003(a), the jury is composed of six members.          (j)  In matters of concurrent jurisdiction, a judge of a   county court at law and a judge of a district court with   jurisdiction in Bowie County may transfer cases between the courts   in the same manner that judges of district courts may transfer cases   under Section 24.003.          SECTION 2.09.  (a)  Section 25.1031(a), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (a)  Harris County has the following county civil courts at   law:                (1)  County Civil Court at Law No. 1 of Harris County,   Texas;                (2)  County Civil Court at Law No. 2 of Harris County,   Texas;                (3)  County Civil Court at Law No. 3 of Harris County,   Texas; [and]                (4)  County Civil Court at Law No. 4 of Harris County,   Texas; and                (5)  County Civil Court at Law No. 5 of Harris County,   Texas.          (b)  The County Civil Court at Law No. 5 of Harris County is   created on September 1, 2025.          SECTION 2.10.  (a)  Effective September 1, 2026, Section   25.1101(b), Government Code, is amended to read as follows:          (b)  Hidalgo County has the following statutory probate   courts:                (1)  [one statutory probate court, the] Probate Court   No. 1 of Hidalgo County; and                (2)  Probate Court No. 2 of Hidalgo County.          (b)  On September 1, 2026:                (1)  Probate Court No. 2 of Hidalgo County is created;   and                (2)  the Probate Court of Hidalgo County is   redesignated as Probate Court No. 1 of Hidalgo County.          SECTION 2.11.  (a)  Section 25.1102(a), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (a)  In addition to the jurisdiction provided by Section   25.0003 and other law, a county court at law in Hidalgo County has   concurrent jurisdiction with the district court in:                (1)  family law cases and proceedings; and                (2)  civil cases [in which the matter in controversy   does not exceed $750,000, excluding interest, statutory or punitive   damages and penalties, and attorney's fees and costs, as alleged on   the page of the petition].          (b)  Section 25.1102(a), Government Code, as amended by this   section, applies only to an action filed in a county court at law in   Hidalgo County on or after the effective date of this Act.  An   action filed in a county court at law in Hidalgo County before the   effective date of this Act is governed by the law in effect on the   date the action was filed, and the former law is continued in effect   for that purpose.          SECTION 2.12.  Section 25.1902(b-1), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (b-1)  In addition to the jurisdiction provided by   Subsections (a) and (b), the county courts at law in [County Court   at Law No. 1 of] Potter County have [has] concurrent jurisdiction   with the district court in felony cases to conduct arraignments,   conduct pretrial hearings, and accept pleas in uncontested matters.          SECTION 2.13.  Section 25.2282, Government Code, is amended   by adding Subsection (b) to read as follows:          (b)  In addition to the jurisdiction provided by Section   25.0003 and other law, a county court at law in Tom Green County has   concurrent jurisdiction with the district court in family law cases   and proceedings.          SECTION 2.14.  Sections 25.2452(b), (c), (d), and (e),   Government Code, are amended to read as follows:          (b)  All misdemeanor cases, probate and mental health   matters, proceedings under the Estates Code, and appeals from   municipal courts of record shall be filed in the county court at   law.  A county court at law may transfer a case or an appeal   described by this subsection to the county court with the consent of   the county judge.          (c)  Except as provided by Section 25.0003 and Subsection   (d), a county court at law has concurrent jurisdiction with the   district court in:                (1)  family law cases and proceedings under the Family   Code; [and]                (2)  civil cases in which the amount in controversy   exceeds $500 but does not exceed $200,000, excluding interest,   exemplary damages, penalties, attorney's fees, and court costs; and                (3)  appeals from the justice courts.          (d)  A county court at law does not have jurisdiction of:                (1)  a case under:                      (A)  the Alcoholic Beverage Code;                      (B)  the Election Code; or                      (C)  the Tax Code; or                (2)  a matter over which the district court has   exclusive jurisdiction[; or                [(3)  a civil case, other than a case under the Family   Code or the Estates Code, in which the amount in controversy is:                      [(A)  less than the maximum amount in controversy   allowed the justice court in Wichita County; or                      [(B)  more than $200,000, exclusive of punitive or   exemplary damages, penalties, interest, costs, and attorney's   fees].          (e)  On the motion of any party, a county court at law may   transfer a civil case originally filed in a county court at law that   exceeds the maximum amount in controversy described by Subsection   (c)(2) [(d)(3)(B)] to the district court in Wichita County, except   that an announcement of ready for trial by all parties before a   motion to transfer the case to the district court is filed confers   original jurisdiction on the county court at law.  A case that is   transferred to the district court shall be completed under the same   cause number and in the same manner as if the case were originally   filed in the district court.          SECTION 2.15.  Section 25.2704(a), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (a)  In addition to the jurisdiction provided by Section   25.0003 and other law, the 2nd Multicounty Court at Law has   concurrent jurisdiction with the district courts, including   [except] in civil cases in which the matter in controversy exceeds   the maximum amount provided by Section 25.0003(c)(1).          SECTION 2.16.  (a)  Sections 25.0212(d) and 25.1723(c),   Government Code, are repealed.          (b)  Section 25.1723(c), Government Code, as repealed by   this section, applies only to an action filed on or after September   1, 2025. An action filed before that date is governed by the law in   effect immediately before that date, and that law is continued in   effect for that purpose.          SECTION 2.17.  Sections 25.0003(c), 25.0007(c), and   25.0062(b), Government Code, as amended by this article, apply only   to a civil case filed in a statutory county court on or after   September 1, 2025.  A civil case filed in a statutory county court   before that date is governed by the law in effect immediately before   that date, and the former law is continued in effect for that   purpose.          SECTION 2.18.  Section 25.00212, Government Code, as amended   by this article, applies to amounts deposited in the judicial fund   under Section 133.151(c)(1), Local Government Code, from fees   collected by a statutory probate court before, on, or after   September 1, 2025.          SECTION 2.19.  Section 25.2282, Government Code, as amended   by this article, applies only to a case filed or proceeding   commenced on or after September 1, 2025. A case filed or proceeding   commenced before that date is governed by the law in effect on the   date the action was filed, and the former law is continued in effect   for that purpose.          SECTION 2.20.  Section 25.2452, Government Code, as amended   by this article, applies only to an action filed in a county court   at law in Wichita County on or after September 1, 2025. An action   filed in a county court at law in Wichita County before that date is   governed by the law in effect on the date the action was filed, and   the former law is continued in effect for that purpose.          SECTION 2.21.  Section 25.2704(a), Government Code, as   amended by this article, applies only to a case filed or proceeding   commenced on or after September 1, 2025.  A case filed or proceeding   commenced before that date is governed by the law in effect on the   date the case was filed or the proceeding was commenced, and the   former law is continued in effect for that purpose.   ARTICLE 3. VISITING JUDGES          SECTION 3.01.  Sections 25.0022(d), (h), (k), (o), (t), (u),   and (w), Government Code, are amended to read as follows:          (d)  The presiding judge shall:                (1)  ensure the promulgation of local rules of   administration in accordance with policies and guidelines set by   the supreme court;                (2)  advise local statutory probate court judges on   case flow management practices and auxiliary court services;                (3)  perform a duty of a local administrative statutory   probate court judge if the local administrative judge does not   perform that duty;                (4)  appoint an assistant presiding judge of the   statutory probate courts;                (5)  call and preside over annual meetings of the   judges of the statutory probate courts at a time and place in the   state as designated by the presiding judge;                (6)  call and convene other meetings of the judges of   the statutory probate courts as considered necessary by the   presiding judge to promote the orderly and efficient administration   of justice in the statutory probate courts;                (7)  study available statistics reflecting the   condition of the dockets of the probate courts in the state to   determine the need for the assignment of judges under this section;                (8)  compare local rules of court to achieve uniformity   of rules to the extent practical and consistent with local   conditions;                (9)  assign or order the clerk who serves the statutory   probate courts to randomly assign a judge or former or retired judge   of a statutory probate court or a former or retired justice of an   appellate court to hear a case under Section 25.002201(a) or   25.00255, as applicable; and                (10)  require the local administrative judge for   statutory probate courts in a county to ensure that all statutory   probate courts in the county comply with Chapter 37.          (h)  Subject to Section 25.002201, a judge or a former or   retired judge of a statutory probate court or a former or retired   justice of an appellate court may be assigned by the presiding judge   of the statutory probate courts to hold court in a statutory probate   court, a county court, or any statutory court exercising probate   jurisdiction when:                (1)  a statutory probate judge requests assignment of   another judge to the judge's court;                (2)  a statutory probate judge is absent, disabled, or   disqualified for any reason;                (3)  a statutory probate judge is present or is trying   cases as authorized by the constitution and laws of this state and   the condition of the court's docket makes it necessary to appoint an   additional judge;                (4)  the office of a statutory probate judge is vacant;                (5)  the presiding judge of an administrative judicial   district requests the assignment of a statutory probate judge to   hear a probate matter in a county court or statutory county court;                (6)  the statutory probate judge is recused or   disqualified as described by Section 25.002201(a);                (7)  a county court judge requests the assignment of a   statutory probate judge to hear a probate matter in the county   court; or                (8)  a local administrative statutory probate court   judge requests the assignment of a statutory probate judge to hear a   matter in a statutory probate court.          (k)  The daily compensation of a former or retired judge or   justice for purposes of this section is set at an amount equal to   the daily compensation of a judge of a statutory probate court in   the county in which the former or retired judge or justice is   assigned. A former or retired judge or justice assigned to a county   that does not have a statutory probate court shall be paid an amount   equal to the daily compensation of a judge of a statutory probate   court in the county where the assigned judge or justice was last   elected.          (o)  The county in which the assigned judge served shall pay   out of the general fund of the county:                (1)  expenses certified under Subsection (m) to the   assigned judge; and                (2)  the salary certified under Subsection (m) to the   county in which the assigned judge serves, or, if the assigned judge   is a former or retired judge or justice, to the assigned judge.          (t)  To be eligible for assignment under this section, a   former or retired judge of a statutory probate court or a former or   retired justice of an appellate court must:                (1)  not have been removed from office;                (2)  certify under oath to the presiding judge, on a   form prescribed by the state board of regional judges, that:                      (A)  the judge or justice has not been publicly   reprimanded or censured by the State Commission on Judicial   Conduct; and                      (B)  the judge or justice:                            (i)  did not resign or retire from office   after the State Commission on Judicial Conduct notified the judge   or justice of the commencement of a full investigation into an   allegation or appearance of misconduct or disability of the judge   or justice as provided in Section 33.022 and before the final   disposition of that investigation; or                            (ii)  if the judge or justice did resign from   office under circumstances described by Subparagraph (i), was not   publicly reprimanded or censured as a result of the investigation;                (3)  annually demonstrate that the judge or justice has   completed in the past state fiscal year the educational   requirements for an active statutory probate court judge;                (4)  have served as an active judge or justice for at   least 72 months in a district, statutory probate, statutory county,   or appellate court; and                (5)  have developed substantial experience in the   judge's or justice's area of specialty.          (u)  In addition to the eligibility requirements under   Subsection (t), to be eligible for assignment under this section in   the judge's or justice's county of residence, a former or retired   judge of a statutory probate court or a former or retired justice of   an appellate court must certify to the presiding judge a   willingness not to:                (1)  appear and plead as an attorney in any court in the   judge's county of residence for a period of two years; and                (2)  accept appointment as a guardian ad litem,   guardian of the estate of an incapacitated person, or guardian of   the person of an incapacitated person in any court in the judge's or   justice's county of residence for a period of two years.          (w)  A former or retired judge or justice who is assigned   under this section is not an employee of the county in which the   assigned court is located.          SECTION 3.02.  Section 25.002201, Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          Sec. 25.002201.  ASSIGNMENT OF JUDGE ON RECUSAL OR   DISQUALIFICATION. (a)  Except as provided by Subsection (b), not   later than the 15th day after the date an order of recusal or   disqualification of a statutory probate court judge is issued in a   case, the presiding judge shall assign a statutory probate court   judge or a former or retired judge of a statutory probate court or a   former or retired justice of an appellate court to hear the case if:                (1)  the judge of the statutory probate court recused   himself or herself under Section 25.00255(g)(1)(A);                (2)  the judge of the statutory probate court   disqualified himself or herself under Section 25.00255(g-1);                (3)  the order was issued under Section   25.00255(i-3)(1); or                (4)  the presiding judge receives notice and a request   for assignment from the clerk of the statutory probate court under   Section 25.00255(l).          (b)  If the judge who is the subject of an order of recusal or   disqualification is the presiding judge of the statutory probate   courts, the chief justice of the supreme court shall assign a   statutory probate judge, [or] a former or retired judge of a   statutory probate court, or a former or retired justice of an   appellate court to hear the case.          SECTION 3.03.  Section 25.00255, Government Code, is amended   by amending Subsection (a) and adding Subsections (b) and (c) to   read as follows:          (a)  Notwithstanding any conflicting provision in the Texas   Rules of Civil Procedure, Rules 18a and 18b, Texas Rules of Civil   Procedure, apply to the recusal and disqualification of a statutory   probate court judge except as otherwise provided by this section or   another provision of this subchapter.  The presiding judge:                (1)  has the authority and shall perform the functions   and duties of the presiding judge of the administrative judicial   region under the rules, including the duty to hear or rule on a   referred motion of recusal or disqualification or, subject to   Subdivisions (2) and (3), assign a judge to hear and rule on a   referred motion of recusal or disqualification;                (2)  may assign a presiding judge of the administrative   judicial region to hear and rule on a referred motion of recusal or   disqualification only with the consent of the presiding judge of   the administrative judicial region;                (3)  may not assign a judge of a statutory probate court   located in the same county as the statutory probate court served by   the judge who is the subject of the motion of recusal or   disqualification; and                (4)  if the presiding judge is the subject of the motion   of recusal or disqualification, shall sign and file with the clerk   an order referring the motion to the chief justice of the supreme   court for assignment of a presiding judge of an administrative   judicial region, a statutory probate court judge, [or] a former or   retired judge of a statutory probate court, or a former or retired   justice of an appellate court to hear and rule on the motion,   subject to Subdivisions (2) and (3).          (b)  The presiding judge may deny a motion of recusal or   disqualification that does not comply with Rule 18a, Texas Rules of   Civil Procedure, without a hearing.  An order denying a motion under   this subsection must state the manner in which the motion fails to   comply with that rule.          (c)  A motion of recusal or disqualification that does not   comply with Rule 18a, Texas Rules of Civil Procedure, is a motion or   disqualification for the purpose of determining whether a tertiary   recusal motion has been filed under Section 25.00256, regardless of   whether the motion was amended after filing.          SECTION 3.04.  Section 74.003(e), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (e)  A retired justice or judge assigned as provided by this   section is entitled to receive, pro rata for the time serving on   assignment, from money appropriated from the general revenue fund   for that purpose, an amount equal to the compensation received from   state and county sources by a justice of the court of appeals to   which assigned.  A former justice or judge assigned as provided by   this section is entitled to receive, pro rata for the time serving   on assignment, from money appropriated from the general revenue   fund for that purpose, an amount equal to the compensation from the   state received by a justice of the court of appeals to which   assigned, and from county sources, an amount equal to the   compensation received from county sources by a justice of the court   of appeals to which assigned.  For purposes of determining the   amount to be paid to a former or retired justice or judge under this   subsection, the compensation received from the state by a justice   of the court of appeals to which the retired justice or judge is   assigned is the amount equal to the state [base] salary paid to a   justice of that court of appeals with eight years of service [as set   by the General Appropriations Act] in accordance with Section   659.012(b)(2) [659.012(a)].          SECTION 3.05.  Section 74.046(b), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (b)  A presiding judge may appoint a judicial mentor or   arrange for additional administrative personnel to be assigned to a   court identified by the Office of Court Administration of the Texas   Judicial System as needing additional assistance under Section   72.024(b-1). A former or retired judge or justice assigned as a   judicial mentor under this subsection is entitled to the same   salary, compensation, and expenses under Section 74.061 that the   judge or justice would be entitled to if the judge or justice had   been assigned under this chapter to serve as the judge of a trial   court in the administrative judicial region of the court to which   the judge or justice is assigned as a judicial mentor.          SECTION 3.06.  Section 74.059, Government Code, is amended   by adding Subsection (a-1) to read as follows:          (a-1)  A judge assigned under the provisions of this chapter   to a court that sits in a county located in the Texas-Mexico border   region, as defined by Section 2056.002(e), may conduct a   proceeding, other than a trial, or perform a judicial action from   any location in this state using videoconference, teleconference,   or other available electronic means if authorized by the order of   assignment.          SECTION 3.07.  Section 74.061, Government Code, is amended   by amending Subsections (h), (i), and (k) and adding Subsection   (k-1) to read as follows:          (h)  Notwithstanding Subsection (c), the salary from the   state of a retired judge or justice assigned to a district court is   determined pro rata based on the sum of the regular judge's salary   from the county plus the amount of the state [base] salary paid to a   district judge with eight years of service [as set by the General   Appropriations Act] in accordance with Section 659.012(b)(2)   [659.012(a)].          (i)  Notwithstanding Subsection (d), the salary from the   state of a former judge or justice assigned to a district court is   determined pro rata based on the amount of the state [base] salary   paid to a district judge with eight years of service [as set by the   General Appropriations Act] in accordance with Section   659.012(b)(2) [659.012(a)].          (k)  Except as provided by Subsection (k-1) and   notwithstanding [Notwithstanding] any other provision of law, a   former, retired, or active judge is not entitled to compensation   paid by the state when the judge sits as an assigned judge for a   statutory county court.          (k-1)  Notwithstanding any other provision, a former or   retired judge or justice assigned under this chapter to a   constitutional county court in a county located in the Texas-Mexico   border region, as defined by Section 2056.002(e), is entitled to   compensation from the state in an amount equal to the maximum salary   a district judge may receive from county and state sources under   Section 659.012(a) if the presiding judge of the administrative   judicial region in which the county lies certifies that exigent   circumstances require the assignment.          SECTION 3.08.  This article takes effect immediately if this   Act receives a vote of two-thirds of all the members elected to each   house, as provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas Constitution.   If this Act does not receive the vote necessary for immediate   effect, this article takes effect September 1, 2025.   ARTICLE 4.  MASTERS, MAGISTRATES, REFEREES, AND ASSOCIATE JUDGES          SECTION 4.01.  Article 2A.151, Code of Criminal Procedure,   is amended to read as follows:          Art. 2A.151.  TYPES OF MAGISTRATES.  The following officers   are magistrates for purposes of this code:                (1)  a justice of the supreme court;                (2)  a judge of the court of criminal appeals;                (3)  a justice of the courts of appeals;                (4)  a judge of a district court;                (5)  an associate judge appointed by:                      (A)  a judge of a district court or a statutory   county court that gives preference to criminal cases in Jefferson   County;                      (B)  a judge of a district court or a statutory   county court of Brazos County, Nueces County, or Williamson County;   [or]                      (C)  a judge of a district court under Chapter   54A, Government Code; or                      (D)  a judge of a district court under Subchapter   B, Chapter 54B, Government Code;                (6)  a criminal magistrate appointed by:                      (A)  the Bell County Commissioners Court;                      (B)  the Brazoria County Commissioners Court; or                      (C) [(B)]  the Burnet County Commissioners Court;                (7)  a criminal law hearing officer for:                      (A)  Harris County appointed under Subchapter L,   Chapter 54, Government Code; or                      (B)  Cameron County appointed under Subchapter   BB, Chapter 54, Government Code;                (8)  a magistrate appointed:                      (A)  by a judge of a district court of Bexar   County, Dallas County, or Tarrant County that gives preference to   criminal cases;                      (B)  by a judge of a criminal district court of   Dallas County or Tarrant County;                      (C)  by a judge of a district court or statutory   county court of Denton or Grayson County;                        (D)  by a judge of a district court or statutory   county court that gives preference to criminal cases in Travis   County;                      (E) [(D)]  by the El Paso Council of Judges;                      (F) [(E)]  by the Fort Bend County Commissioners   Court;                      (G) [(F)]  by the Collin County Commissioners   Court; or                      (H) [(G)]  under Subchapter JJ, Chapter 54,   Government Code;                (9)  a magistrate or associate judge appointed by a   judge of a district court of Lubbock County, Nolan County, or Webb   County;                (10)  a county judge;                (11)  a judge of:                      (A)  a statutory county court;                      (B)  a county criminal court; or                      (C)  a statutory probate court;                (12)  an associate judge appointed by a judge of a   statutory probate court under Chapter 54A, Government Code;                (13)  a justice of the peace; and                (14)  a mayor or recorder of a municipality or a judge   of a municipal court.          SECTION 4.02.  Chapter 54, Government Code, is amended by   adding Subchapter A to read as follows:   SUBCHAPTER A. GENERAL PROVISIONS          Sec. 54.001.  QUALIFICATIONS. (a)  Except as provided by   Subsection (b) or another provision of this chapter and in addition   to any other qualification required by law, a master, magistrate,   referee, or associate judge appointed under this chapter must have   been licensed to practice law in this state for at least five years   before the date of appointment.          (b)  A master, magistrate, referee, or associate judge   appointed under the following provisions of this chapter must have   been licensed to practice law in this state for at least two years   before the date of appointment:                (1)  Section 54.991;                (2)  Section 54.1231;                (3)  Section 54.1501;                (4)  Section 54.1851;                (5)  Section 54.2001;                (6)  Section 54.2301; or                (7)  Section 54.2802.          SECTION 4.03.  Chapter 54, Government Code, is amended by   adding Subchapter EE to read as follows:   SUBCHAPTER EE. BELL COUNTY CRIMINAL MAGISTRATES          Sec. 54.1601.  APPOINTMENT.  (a)  The Commissioners Court of   Bell County may select magistrates to serve the courts of Bell   County having jurisdiction in criminal matters.          (b)  The commissioners court shall establish the minimum   qualifications, salary, benefits, and other compensation of each   magistrate position and shall determine whether the position is   full-time or part-time.  Notwithstanding another provision of this   chapter, to be eligible for appointment under this subchapter, a   person must have been licensed to practice law in this state and in   good standing with the State Bar of Texas for at least two years.          (c)  A magistrate appointed under this section serves at the   pleasure of the commissioners court.          Sec. 54.1602.  JURISDICTION.  A magistrate has concurrent   criminal jurisdiction with the judges of the justice of the peace   courts of Bell County.          Sec. 54.1603.  POWERS AND DUTIES. (a)  The Commissioners   Court of Bell County shall establish the powers and duties of a   magistrate appointed under this subchapter. Except as otherwise   provided by the commissioners court, a magistrate has the powers of   a magistrate under the Code of Criminal Procedure and other laws of   this state and may administer an oath for any purpose.          (b)  A magistrate shall give preference to performing the   duties of a magistrate under Article 15.17, Code of Criminal   Procedure.          (c)  The commissioners court may designate one or more   magistrates to hold regular hearings to:                (1)  give admonishments;                (2)  set and review bail and conditions of release;                (3)  appoint legal counsel; and                (4)  determine other routine matters relating to   preindictment or pending cases within those courts' jurisdiction.          (d)  In the hearings provided under Subsection (c), a   magistrate shall give preference to the case of an individual held   in county jail.          (e)  A magistrate may inquire into a defendant's intended   plea to the charge and set the case for an appropriate hearing   before a judge or master.          Sec. 54.1604.  JUDICIAL IMMUNITY. A magistrate has the same   judicial immunity as a district judge.          Sec. 54.1605.  WITNESSES. (a) A witness who is sworn and   who appears before a magistrate is subject to the penalties for   perjury and aggravated perjury provided by law.          (b)  A referring court may fine or imprison a witness or   other court participant for failure to appear after being summoned,   refusal to answer questions, or other acts of direct contempt   before a magistrate.          SECTION 4.04.  Section 54.302, Government Code, is amended   to read as follows:          Sec. 54.302.  QUALIFICATIONS.  To be eligible for   appointment as a magistrate, a person must[:                [(1)]  be a resident of this state[; and                [(2)  have been licensed to practice law in this state   for at least four years].          SECTION 4.05.  Section 54.652, Government Code, is amended   to read as follows:          Sec. 54.652.  QUALIFICATIONS. To be eligible for   appointment as a magistrate, a person must[:                [(1)]  be a resident of this state[; and                [(2)  have been licensed to practice law in this state   for at least four years].          SECTION 4.06.  Section 54.802, Government Code, is amended   to read as follows:          Sec. 54.802.  QUALIFICATIONS.  A master must[:                [(1)]  be a citizen and resident of this state[; and                [(2)  have been licensed to practice law in this state   for at least four years].          SECTION 4.07.  Section 54.853, Government Code, is amended   to read as follows:          Sec. 54.853.  QUALIFICATIONS.  To be eligible for   appointment as a criminal law hearing officer under this   subchapter, a person must:                (1)  be a resident of this state and the county;                (2)  [have been licensed to practice law in this state   for at least four years;                [(3)]  not have been defeated for reelection to a   judicial office;                (3) [(4)]  not have been removed from office by   impeachment, by the supreme court, by the governor on address to the   legislature, by a tribunal reviewing a recommendation of the State   Commission on Judicial Conduct, or by the legislature's abolition   of the judge's court; and                (4) [(5)]  not have resigned from office after having   received notice that formal proceedings by the State Commission on   Judicial Conduct had been instituted as provided in Section 33.022   and before the final disposition of the proceedings.          SECTION 4.08.  Section 54.872, Government Code, is amended   to read as follows:          Sec. 54.872.  QUALIFICATIONS. To be eligible for   appointment as a magistrate, a person must[:                [(1)]  be a resident of this state[; and                [(2)  have been licensed to practice law in this state   for at least four years].          SECTION 4.09.  Section 54.902, Government Code, is amended   to read as follows:          Sec. 54.902.  QUALIFICATIONS. To be eligible for   appointment as a magistrate, a person must[:                [(1)]  be a resident of this state[; and                [(2)  have been licensed to practice law in this state   for at least four years].          SECTION 4.10.  Section 54.972, Government Code, is amended   to read as follows:          Sec. 54.972.  QUALIFICATIONS. A magistrate must[:                [(1)]  be a resident of this state and of Travis   County[; and                [(2)  have been licensed to practice law in this state   for at least four years].          SECTION 4.11.  Section 54.1173, Government Code, is amended   to read as follows:          Sec. 54.1173.  QUALIFICATIONS. A magistrate must:                (1)  be a citizen of this state; and                (2)  be at least 25 years of age[; and                [(3)  have been licensed to practice law in this state   for at least four years preceding the date of appointment].          SECTION 4.12.  Section 54.1353, Government Code, is amended   to read as follows:          Sec. 54.1353.  QUALIFICATIONS.  To be eligible for   appointment as a criminal law hearing officer under this   subchapter, a person must:                (1)  be a resident of Cameron County;                (2)  be eligible to vote in this state and in Cameron   County;                (3)  be at least 30 years of age; and                (4)  [be a licensed attorney with at least four years'   experience; and                [(5)] have the other qualifications required by the   board.          SECTION 4.13.  Section 54.1501(b), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (b)  The commissioners court shall establish the minimum   qualifications, salary, benefits, and other compensation of each   magistrate position and shall determine whether the position is   full-time or part-time.  [The qualifications must require the   magistrate to:                [(1)  have served as a justice of the peace or municipal   court judge; or                [(2)  be an attorney licensed in this state.]          SECTION 4.14.  Section 54.1804, Government Code, is amended   to read as follows:          Sec. 54.1804.  QUALIFICATIONS. A magistrate must[:                [(1)] be a resident of this state and of the county in   which the magistrate is appointed to serve under this subchapter[;   and                [(2)  have been licensed to practice law in this state   for at least four years].          SECTION 4.15.  Section 54.1851(b), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (b)  The commissioners court shall establish the minimum   qualifications, salary, benefits, and other compensation of each   magistrate position and shall determine whether the position is   full-time or part-time.  [The qualifications must require the   magistrate to have served as a justice of the peace or be an   attorney licensed in this state.]          SECTION 4.16.  Section 54.1953, Government Code, is amended   to read as follows:          Sec. 54.1953.  QUALIFICATIONS. A magistrate must:                (1)  be a citizen of this state; and                (2)  have resided in the county for at least six months   before the date of the appointment[; and                [(3)  have:                      [(A)  served as a justice of the peace for at least   four years before the date of appointment; or                      [(B)  been licensed to practice law in this state   for at least four years before the date of appointment].          SECTION 4.17.  Section 54.2202(a), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (a)  To be eligible for appointment as a magistrate, a person   must:                (1)  be a citizen of the United States; and                (2)  have resided in Collin County for at least the four   years preceding the person's appointment[; and                [(3)  have been licensed to practice law in this state   for at least four years].          SECTION 4.18.  Section 54.2402(a), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (a)  To be eligible for appointment as a magistrate, a person   must:                (1)  be a citizen of the United States; and                (2)  have resided in Fort Bend County for at least the   four years preceding the person's appointment[; and                [(3)  have been licensed to practice law in this state   for at least four years].          SECTION 4.19.  Section 54.2602, Government Code, is amended   to read as follows:          Sec. 54.2602.  QUALIFICATIONS. To be eligible for   appointment as a magistrate, a person must[:                [(1)]  be a resident of this state[; and                [(2)  have been licensed to practice law in this state   for at least four years].          SECTION 4.20.  Section 54.2702(a), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (a)  To be eligible for appointment as a magistrate, a person   must be a resident of this state [and:                [(1)  have served as a justice of the peace or municipal   court judge for at least four years before the date of appointment;   or                [(2)  have been licensed to practice law in this state   for at least four years before the date of appointment].          SECTION 4.21.  Section 54.2802(a), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (a)  The district court judges with jurisdiction in Denton   County and the judges of the criminal statutory county courts of   Denton County shall appoint one or more judges to preside over the   criminal law magistrate court.  An appointed judge must:                (1)  serve Denton County as a district court judge, a   criminal statutory county court judge, an associate judge of a   court with criminal jurisdiction, a magistrate, including a jail   magistrate, a judge of a municipal court of record, or a justice of   the peace;                (2)  [be a licensed attorney in good standing with the   State Bar of Texas;                [(3)]  be authorized to access criminal history records   under state and federal law;                (3) [(4)]  have completed training necessary to serve   as a magistrate in Denton County, as determined by the district   court judges with jurisdiction in Denton County and the judges of   the criminal statutory county courts of Denton County; and                (4) [(5)]  meet the qualifications under Section   54.2807.          SECTION 4.22.  Section 54.2807, Government Code, is amended   to read as follows:          Sec. 54.2807.  QUALIFICATIONS.  To be eligible for   appointment as the criminal law magistrate court associate judge, a   jail magistrate, or another magistrate in the criminal law   magistrate court, a person must[:                [(1)]  have been a resident of Denton County for at   least two years preceding the person's appointment[; and                [(2)  have been licensed to practice law in this state   for at least four years].          SECTION 4.23.  Section 54A.003, Government Code, is amended   to read as follows:          Sec. 54A.003.  QUALIFICATIONS. To qualify for appointment   as an associate judge under this subchapter, a person must:                (1)  be a resident of this state and one of the counties   the person will serve;                (2)  have been licensed to practice law in this state   for at least five [four] years;                (3)  not have been removed from office by impeachment,   by the supreme court, by the governor on address to the legislature,   by a tribunal reviewing a recommendation of the State Commission on   Judicial Conduct, or by the legislature's abolition of the judge's   court; and                (4)  not have resigned from office after having   received notice that formal proceedings by the State Commission on   Judicial Conduct had been instituted as provided by Section 33.022   and before final disposition of the proceedings.          SECTION 4.24.  Section 54A.103, Government Code, is amended   to read as follows:          Sec. 54A.103.  QUALIFICATIONS. To qualify for appointment   as an associate judge under this subchapter, a person must:                (1)  be a resident of this state and one of the counties   the person will serve;                (2)  have been licensed to practice law in this state   for at least five [four] years;                (3)  not have been removed from office by impeachment,   by the supreme court, by the governor on address to the legislature,   by a tribunal reviewing a recommendation of the State Commission on   Judicial Conduct, or by the legislature's abolition of the judge's   court; and                (4)  not have resigned from office after having   received notice that formal proceedings by the State Commission on   Judicial Conduct had been instituted as provided in Section 33.022   and before final disposition of the proceedings.          SECTION 4.25.  Section 54A.305(a), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (a)  To be eligible for appointment as an associate judge   under this subchapter, a person must:                (1)  be a citizen of the United States;                (2)  be a resident of this state for the two years   preceding the date of appointment; and                (3)  be:                      (A)  eligible for assignment under Section 74.054   because the person is named on the list of retired and former judges   maintained by the presiding judge of the administrative judicial   region under Section 74.055;                      (B)  eligible for assignment under Section   25.0022 by the presiding judge of the statutory probate courts; or                      (C)  licensed to practice law in this state for at   least five years and have at least four years of experience in   guardianship proceedings or protective services proceedings before   the date of appointment as a practicing attorney in this state or a   judge of a court in this state.          SECTION 4.26.  Chapter 54B, Government Code, is amended by   adding Subchapter B to read as follows:   SUBCHAPTER B.  CRIMINAL ASSOCIATE JUDGES IN COKE, CONCHO, IRION,   RUNNELS, SCHLEICHER, STERLING, AND TOM GREEN COUNTIES          Sec. 54B.031.  APPOINTMENT. (a)  A judge of the 51st, 119th,   340th, or 391st district court may appoint a full-time or part-time   criminal associate judge to perform the duties authorized by this   subchapter if the commissioners court of the county in which the   court has jurisdiction has authorized the creation of an associate   judge position.           (b)  If a court has jurisdiction in more than one county, an   associate judge appointed by that court may serve only in a county   in which the commissioners court has authorized the appointment.          (c)  If more than one court in a county is subject to this   subchapter, the commissioners court may authorize the appointment   of an associate judge for each court or may authorize one or more   associate judges to share service with two or more courts.          (d)  If an associate judge serves more than one court, the   associate judge's appointment must be made as established by local   rule, but in no event by less than a vote of two-thirds of the judges   under whom the associate judge serves.          Sec. 54B.032.  APPLICABILITY. Except as provided by Section   54B.033, Subchapter A, Chapter 54A applies to a criminal associate   judge appointed under this subchapter.          Sec. 54B.033.  PROCEEDINGS THAT MAY BE REFERRED. (a)  A   judge may refer to a criminal associate judge any criminal case or   matter relating to a criminal case for proceedings involving:                (1)  a negotiated plea of guilty or no contest and   sentencing before the court;                (2)  a bond forfeiture, remittitur, and related   proceedings;                (3)  a pretrial motion;                (4)  a writ of habeas corpus;                (5)  an examining trial;                (6)  an occupational driver's license;                (7)  a petition for an order of expunction under   Chapter 55A, Code of Criminal Procedure;                (8)  an asset forfeiture hearing as provided by Chapter   59, Code of Criminal Procedure;                (9)  a petition for an order of nondisclosure of   criminal history record information or an order of nondisclosure of   criminal history record information that does not require a   petition provided by Subchapter E-1, Chapter 411;                (10)  a motion to modify or revoke community   supervision or to proceed with an adjudication of guilty;                (11)  setting conditions, modifying, revoking, and   surrendering of bonds, including surety bonds;                (12)  specialty court proceedings;                (13)  a waiver of extradition; and                (14)  any other matter the judge considers necessary   and proper.          (b)  A judge may refer to a criminal associate judge a civil   case arising out of Chapter 59, Code of Criminal Procedure, for any   purpose authorized by that chapter, including issuing orders,   accepting agreed judgments, enforcing judgments, and presiding   over a case on the merits if a party has not requested a jury trial.          (c)  A criminal associate judge may accept a plea of guilty   from a defendant charged with misdemeanor, felony, or both   misdemeanor and felony offenses.          (d)  A criminal associate judge may select a jury. A   criminal associate judge may not preside over a criminal trial on   the merits, whether or not the trial is before a jury.          (e)  A criminal associate judge may not hear a jury trial on   the merits of a bond forfeiture.          (f)  A judge of a designated juvenile court may refer to a   criminal associate judge any proceeding over which a juvenile court   has exclusive original jurisdiction under Title 3, Family Code,   including any matter ancillary to the proceeding.          SECTION 4.27.  The changes in law made by this article apply   only to a master, magistrate, referee, or associate judge appointed   under Chapter 54 or 54A, Government Code, as amended by this   article, on or after September 1, 2025. A master, magistrate,   referee, or associate judge appointed before that date is governed   by the law in effect on the date the master, magistrate, referee, or   associate judge was appointed, and the former law is continued in   effect for that purpose.   ARTICLE 5.  BUSINESS COURT          SECTION 5.01.  Section 659.012, Government Code, is amended   by adding Subsection (a-1) to read as follows:          (a-1)  In addition to the annual base salary from the state   prescribed by Subsection (a), a judge of a division of the business   court is entitled to an additional annual salary from the state in   an amount equal to the difference between the judge's annual base   salary from the state and the maximum combined base salary from all   state and county sources paid to a district judge under Subsection   (a).   ARTICLE 6.  JURORS          SECTION 6.01.  Article 19A.051(c), Code of Criminal   Procedure, is amended to read as follows:          (c)  The judge shall test the qualifications for and   exemptions [excuses] from service as a grand juror and impanel the   completed grand jury as provided by this chapter.          SECTION 6.02.  The heading to Subchapter C, Chapter 19A,   Code of Criminal Procedure, is amended to read as follows:   SUBCHAPTER C. GRAND JUROR QUALIFICATIONS; EXEMPTIONS [EXCUSES]   FROM SERVICE          SECTION 6.03.  Article 19A.101, Code of Criminal Procedure,   is amended to read as follows:          Art. 19A.101.  GRAND JUROR QUALIFICATIONS; LISTS OF   DISQUALIFIED PERSONS.  (a)  A person may be selected or serve as a   grand juror only if the person:                (1)  is at least 18 years of age;                (2)  is a citizen of the United States;                (3)  is a resident of this state and of the county in   which the person is to serve;                (4)  is qualified under the constitution and other laws   to vote in the county in which the grand jury is sitting, regardless   of whether the person is registered to vote;                (5)  is of sound mind and good moral character;                (6)  is able to read and write;                (7)  has never been convicted of misdemeanor theft [or   a felony];                (8)  has never been convicted of a felony;                (9)  is not under indictment or other legal accusation   for misdemeanor theft or a felony;                (10) [(9)]  is not related within the third degree by   consanguinity or second degree by affinity, as determined under   Chapter 573, Government Code, to any person selected to serve or   serving on the same grand jury;                (11) [(10)]  has not served as a grand juror in the year   before the date on which the term of court for which the person has   been selected as a grand juror begins; and                (12) [(11)]  is not a complainant in any matter to be   heard by the grand jury during the term of court for which the   person has been selected as a grand juror.          (b)  On the third business day of each month, the clerk of the   district court shall prepare:                (1)  a list of persons who in the preceding month were   disqualified from serving as a grand juror based on the person's   citizenship [or indictment or conviction for misdemeanor theft or a   felony] and send a copy of the list to:                      (A) [(1)]  the secretary of state;                      (B)  the voter registrar for the county in which   the grand jury is sitting; and                      (C) [(2)]  the prosecuting attorney for the court   to which the grand jurors were summoned for investigation into   whether any person made a false claim concerning the person's   qualification under Subsection (a)(2);                (2)  a list of persons who in the preceding month were   disqualified from serving as a grand juror based on the person's   residency and send a copy of the list to:                      (A)  the secretary of state; and                      (B)  the voter registrar for the county in which   the grand jury is sitting;                (3)  a list of persons who in the preceding month were   disqualified from serving as a grand juror based on the person's   conviction for a felony and send a copy of the list to:                      (A)  the secretary of state;                      (B)  the voter registrar for the county in which   the grand jury is sitting; and                      (C)  the prosecuting attorney for the court to   which the grand jurors were summoned for investigation into whether   any person made a false claim concerning the person's qualification   under Subsection (a)(8); and                (4)  a list of persons who in the preceding month were   disqualified from serving as a grand juror based on the person's   indictment for a felony or indictment or conviction for misdemeanor   theft and send a copy of the list to:                      (A)  the secretary of state; and                      (B)  the prosecuting attorney for the court to   which the grand jurors were summoned for investigation into whether   any person made a false claim concerning the person's qualification   under Subsection (a)(7) or (9) [, (7), or (8)].          SECTION 6.04.  Article 19A.105, Code of Criminal Procedure,   is amended to read as follows:          Art. 19A.105.  EXCUSE AND EXEMPTION [EXCUSES] FROM GRAND   JURY SERVICE.  (a)  The court shall excuse from serving any   summoned person who does not possess the requisite qualifications   or who claims an exemption to which the person is entitled.          (b)  The following qualified persons may be exempted    [excused] from grand jury service:                (1)  a person who is 75 years of age or older [than 70   years of age];                (2)  a person responsible for the care of a child who is   younger than 18 years of age and who will be without adequate   supervision if the person serves on the grand jury;                (3)  a student of a public or private secondary school;                (4)  a person enrolled in and in actual attendance at an   institution of higher education; and                (5)  any other person the court determines has a   reasonable excuse from service.          SECTION 6.05.  Subchapter C, Chapter 19A, Code of Criminal   Procedure, is amended by adding Articles 19A.106 and 19A.107 to   read as follows:          Art. 19A.106.  PERMANENT EXEMPTION FOR ELDERLY. (a) A   person who is entitled to exemption from grand jury service because   the person is 75 years of age or older may establish a permanent   exemption on that ground as provided by this article.          (b)  A person may claim a permanent exemption by filing with   the district clerk or the clerk of a district court in the county,   through an electronic transmission, mail, or personal delivery, a   signed statement affirming the person is 75 years of age or older   and desires a permanent exemption on that ground.          (c)  The district clerk shall maintain a current register of   the name of each person who resides in the county and who has   claimed and is entitled to a permanent exemption from grand jury   service because the person is 75 years of age or older.          (d)  On the third business day of each month, the district   clerk shall prepare a list of persons who in the preceding month   were permanently exempted from serving as a grand juror under this   article or who rescinded a permanent exemption under Subsection (f)   and send a copy of the list to the secretary of state.          (e)  A person whose name appears on the register of persons   permanently exempted from serving as a grand juror under this   article may not be selected or summoned for grand jury service by   any district judge in the county.          (f)  A person who has claimed a permanent exemption from jury   service under this article may rescind the exemption at any time by   filing a signed request for the rescission with the district clerk   or the clerk of a district court in the county.  Rescission of a   permanent exemption does not affect the right of a person who is 75   years of age or older to claim a permanent exemption at a later   time.          Art. 19A.107.  LIST OF DISQUALIFIED CONVICTED PERSONS. (a)   The district clerk shall maintain a list of the name and address of   each person who is disqualified under this subchapter from grand   jury service because the person was convicted of misdemeanor theft   or a felony.          (b)  A person who was convicted of misdemeanor theft or a   felony is permanently disqualified from serving as a juror.          (c)  A person whose name appears on the list maintained under   this article may not be selected or summoned for grand jury service   by any judge of a district court served by the clerk.          (d)  On the third business day of each month, the district   clerk shall send a copy of the list maintained under this article   to:                (1)  the secretary of state; and                (2)  the prosecuting attorney for the court to which   the grand jurors were summoned for investigation into whether any   person made a false claim concerning the person's qualification   under Article 19A.101(a)(7) or (8).          (e)  On the third business day of each month, the district   clerk shall prepare a list of the name and address of each person on   the list maintained under this article disqualified from grand jury   service because the person was convicted of a felony and send a copy   of the list to the voter registrar for the county in which the grand   jury is sitting.          SECTION 6.06.  Sections 62.001(a) and (b), Government Code,   are amended to read as follows:          (a)  The jury wheel must be reconstituted by using, as the   source:                (1)  the names of all persons on the current voter   registration lists from all the precincts in the county; and                (2)  all names on a current list to be furnished by the   Department of Public Safety, showing the citizens of the county   who:                      (A)  hold a valid Texas driver's license or a   valid personal identification card or certificate issued by the   department; and                      (B)  are not disqualified from jury service under   Section 62.102(1), (2), (3), (7), or (8).          (b)  Notwithstanding Subsection (a), the names of persons   listed on a register of persons exempt from jury service may not be   placed in the jury wheel, as provided by Sections 62.108 and[,]   62.109[, 62.113, 62.114, and 62.115].          SECTION 6.07.  Section 62.0132(g), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (g)  The information contained in a completed questionnaire   may be disclosed to:                (1)  a judge assigned to hear a cause of action in which   the respondent to the questionnaire is a potential juror;                (2)  court personnel;                (3)  a litigant and a litigant's attorney in a cause of   action in which the respondent to the questionnaire is a potential   juror; and                (4)  other than information provided that is related to   Section 62.102(2), (3), (7), (8), or (9) [62.102(8) or (9)], the   voter registrar of a county in connection with any matter of voter   registration or the administration of elections.          SECTION 6.08.  Section 62.102, Government Code, is amended   to read as follows:          Sec. 62.102.  GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS FOR JURY SERVICE.  A   person is disqualified to serve as a petit juror unless the person:                (1)  is at least 18 years of age;                (2)  is a citizen of the United States;                (3)  is a resident of this state and of the county in   which the person is to serve as a juror;                (4)  is qualified under the constitution and laws to   vote in the county in which the person is to serve as a juror;                (5)  is of sound mind and good moral character;                (6)  is able to read and write;                (7)  [has not served as a petit juror for six days   during the preceding three months in the county court or during the   preceding six months in the district court;                [(8)]  has not been convicted of misdemeanor theft [or   a felony];                (8)  has not been convicted of a felony; [and]                (9)  is not under indictment or other legal accusation   for misdemeanor theft or a felony; and                (10)  has not served as a petit juror for six days   during the preceding three months in the county court or during the   preceding six months in the district court.          SECTION 6.09.  Section 62.106(a), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (a)  A person qualified to serve as a petit juror may   establish an exemption from jury service if the person:                (1)  is [over] 75 years of age or older;                (2)  has legal custody of a child younger than 12 years   of age and the person's service on the jury requires leaving the   child without adequate supervision;                (3)  is a student of a public or private secondary   school;                (4)  is a person enrolled and in actual attendance at an   institution of higher education;                (5)  is an officer or an employee of the senate, the   house of representatives, or any department, commission, board,   office, or other agency in the legislative branch of state   government;                (6)  is summoned for service in a county with a   population of at least 200,000, unless that county uses a jury plan   under Section 62.011 and the period authorized under Section   62.011(b)(5) exceeds two years, and the person has served as a petit   juror in the county during the 24-month period preceding the date   the person is to appear for jury service;                (7)  is the primary caretaker of a person who is unable   to care for himself or herself;                (8)  except as provided by Subsection (b), is summoned   for service in a county with a population of at least 250,000 and   the person has served as a petit juror in the county during the   three-year period preceding the date the person is to appear for   jury service; or                (9)  is a member of the United States military forces   serving on active duty and deployed to a location away from the   person's home station and out of the person's county of residence.          SECTION 6.10.  Section 62.107(c), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (c)  A person who files a statement with a clerk of the court,   as provided by Subsection (a), claiming an exemption because the   person is [over] 75 years of age or older, may also claim the   permanent exemption on that ground authorized by Section 62.108 by   including in the statement filed with the clerk a declaration that   the person desires the permanent exemption. The [Promptly after a   statement claiming a permanent exemption on the basis of age is   filed, the] clerk of the court with whom the declaration [it] is   filed shall notify the district clerk [have a copy delivered to the   voter registrar of the county].          SECTION 6.11.  Section 62.108, Government Code, is amended   by amending Subsections (a), (b), (c), and (e) and adding   Subsection (c-1) to read as follows:          (a)  A person who is entitled to exemption from jury service   because the person is [over] 75 years of age or older may establish   a permanent exemption on that ground as provided by this section or   Section 62.107.          (b)  A person may claim a permanent exemption:                (1)  by filing with the district clerk [voter   registrar] of the county, by mail or personal delivery, a signed   statement affirming that the person is [over] 75 years of age or   older and desires a permanent exemption on that ground; or                (2)  in the manner provided by Section 62.107(c).          (c)  The district clerk [voter registrar] of the county shall   maintain a current register indicating the name of each person who   has claimed and is entitled to a permanent exemption from jury   service because the person is [over] 75 years of age or older.          (c-1)  On the third business day of each month, the district   clerk shall prepare a list of persons who in the preceding month   claimed and were entitled to a permanent exemption under this   section or who rescinded an exemption under Subsection (e) and send   a copy of the list to the secretary of state.          (e)  A person who has claimed a permanent exemption from jury   service because the person is [over] 75 years of age or older may   rescind the exemption at any time by filing a signed request for the   rescission with the district clerk [voter registrar] of the county.   Rescission of a permanent exemption does not affect the right of a   person who is [over] 75 years of age or older to claim permanent   exemption at a later time.          SECTION 6.12.  Section 62.109, Government Code, is amended   by amending Subsections (a), (b), (d), and (e) and adding   Subsection (b-1) to read as follows:          (a)  The judge of a district court or the district clerk [by   order] may permanently or for a specified period exempt from   service as a juror in all the county and district courts in the   county a person with a physical or mental impairment or with an   inability to comprehend or communicate in the English language that   makes it impossible or very difficult for the person to serve on a   jury.          (b)  A person requesting an exemption under this section must   submit to the court or the district clerk an affidavit stating the   person's name and address and the reason for and the duration of the   requested exemption.  A person requesting an exemption due to a   physical or mental impairment must attach to the affidavit a   statement from a physician.  The affidavit and physician's   statement may be submitted to the court at the time the person is   summoned for jury service or at any other time.          (b-1)  The district clerk shall maintain a current list   indicating the name of each person permanently or temporarily   exempt under this section and the period of the exemption.          (d)  A person included on the list maintained under   Subsection (b-1) [listed on the register] may not be summoned for   jury service during the period for which the person is exempt.  The   name of a person included on the list maintained under Subsection   (b-1) [listed on the register] may not be placed in the jury wheel   or otherwise used in preparing the record of names from which a jury   list is selected during the period for which the person is exempt.          (e)  A person exempt from jury service under this section may   rescind the exemption at any time by filing a signed request for the   rescission with the district clerk [voter registrar] of the county.          SECTION 6.13.  Sections 62.113(a) and (b), Government Code,   are amended to read as follows:          (a)  The clerk of the court shall maintain a list of the name   and address of each person who is [excused or] disqualified under   this subchapter from jury service because the person is not a   citizen of the United States.          (b)  On the third business day of each month, the clerk shall   send a copy of the list of persons [excused or] disqualified because   of citizenship in the previous month to:                (1)  the voter registrar of the county;                (2)  the secretary of state; and                (3)  the county or district attorney for an   investigation of whether the person committed an offense under   Section 13.007, Election Code, or other law.          SECTION 6.14.  Sections 62.114(a) and (b), Government Code,   are amended to read as follows:          (a)  The clerk of the court shall maintain a list containing   the name and address of each person who is [excused or] disqualified   under this subchapter from jury service because the person is not a   resident of the county.          (b)  On the third business day of each month, the clerk shall   send a copy of the list of persons [excused or] disqualified in the   previous month because the persons do not reside in the county to:                (1)  the voter registrar of the county; and                (2)  the secretary of state.          SECTION 6.15.  Section 62.115, Government Code, is amended   by amending Subsections (c) and (d) and adding Subsection (d-1) to   read as follows:          (c)  The district clerk shall [may] remove from the jury   wheel the jury wheel card for the person whose name appears on the   list.          (d)  On the third business day of each month, the clerk shall   send [to the secretary of state] a copy of the list of persons   disqualified because of a conviction of misdemeanor theft or a   felony to:                (1)  the secretary of state; and                (2)  the prosecuting attorney for a court to which a   person was summoned for investigation into whether the person   falsely made a claim related to a disqualification under Section   62.102(7) or (8) [in the preceding month].          (d-1)  On the third business day of each month, the clerk of   the court shall prepare a list of the name and address of each   person on the list maintained under this section disqualified from   jury service because the person was convicted of a felony and send a   copy of the list to the voter registrar for the county.          SECTION 6.16.  The changes in law made by this article apply   only to a person who is summoned to appear for service on a grand   jury or petit jury on or after September 1, 2025.  A person who is   summoned to appear for service on a grand jury or petit jury before   that date is governed by the law in effect on the date the person was   summoned, and the former law is continued in effect for that   purpose.   ARTICLE 7.  COURT ADMINISTRATION          SECTION 7.01.  Section 233.006(b), Election Code, is amended   to read as follows:          (b)  Except as provided by Section 30.023, Civil Practice and   Remedies Code [233.014], the contestant must file the petition not   later than the later of the 30th day after the date the election   records are publicly available under Section 1.012 or the official   result of the contested election is determined.          SECTION 7.02.  (a) Section 233.014, Election Code, is   transferred to Chapter 30, Civil Practice and Remedies Code,   redesignated as Section 30.023, Civil Practice and Remedies Code,   and amended to read as follows:          Sec. 30.023 [233.014].  SPECIAL PROCEDURES FOR CONTEST OF   CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT ELECTION. (a) This section applies only   to a contest of an election on a proposed constitutional amendment.          (b)  The contestant's petition must be filed and service of   citation on the secretary of state must be obtained before the final   official canvass is completed.          (c)  The filing of an election contest does not suspend   implementation of a constitutional amendment approved by the   majority of the votes cast [The declaration of the official result   of a contested election may not be made until the contest is finally   determined. The secretary of state shall tabulate the county   returns and the governor shall announce the final vote count, as   ascertained from the returns, in a written document. The document   announcing the final vote count must state that a contest of the   election has been filed and that the declaration of the official   result will not be made until the contest is finally determined].          (c-1)  The trial court must ensure a written ruling on a   pretrial motion before the court is entered not later than the 30th   day after the date the motion is filed.          (d)  The trial date may not be earlier than the 45th day after   the date of the contested election except [nor later than the 180th   day after the date of the contested election. The trial date may be   earlier than the 45th day after the date of the contested election]   at the request of the contestant. The trial court must ensure the   judgment of the court is not filed later than the 180th day after   the date of the contested election.          (e)  If an amended petition alleging additional grounds of   contest is filed, the contest may not be called for trial earlier   than the 20th day after the date the amended petition is filed   unless the secretary of state agrees to calling the contest for   trial at an earlier date.          (f)  The court shall include in its judgment in a contest an   order directing the governor to declare the [official result of the   election or to declare the] election valid or void, as appropriate,   not later than the 10th day after the date the judgment becomes   final.          (g)  Any question relating to the validity or outcome of a   constitutional amendment election may be raised in an election   contest.  A contest is the exclusive method for adjudicating such   questions.          (h)  If a contestant files an appeal of the contest, the   appellate court must ensure that the action is brought to final   disposition not later than the 60th [180th] day after the date the   judgment becomes final.          (b)  Section 233.014, Election Code, as redesignated and   amended by this article, applies to a contest of a constitutional   amendment election filed on or after September 1, 2025. A contest   of a constitutional amendment election filed before that date is   governed by the law in effect on the date that the suit is filed, and   the former law is continued in effect for that purpose.          SECTION 7.03.  Section 253.152(7), Election Code, is amended   to read as follows:                (7)  "Statewide judicial office" means the office of   chief justice or justice, supreme court, or presiding judge or   judge, court of criminal appeals, or the Court of Appeals for the   Fifteenth Court of Appeals District.          SECTION 7.04.  Section 6.4035(e), Family Code, is amended to   read as follows:          (e)  The party executing the waiver may [not] sign the waiver   using a digitized signature.          SECTION 7.05.  The heading to Section 22.110, Government   Code, is amended to read as follows:          Sec. 22.110.  JUDICIAL INSTRUCTION RELATED TO FAMILY   VIOLENCE, SEXUAL ASSAULT, TRAFFICKING OF PERSONS, AND CHILD AND   ELDER ABUSE AND NEGLECT.          SECTION 7.06.  Section 22.110, Government Code, is amended   by amending Subsections (a), (b), and (d) and adding Subsection   (b-1) to read as follows:          (a)  The court of criminal appeals shall assure that judicial   training related to the problems of family violence, sexual   assault, trafficking of persons, [and] child abuse and neglect, and   elder abuse and neglect is provided.          (b)  The court of criminal appeals shall adopt the rules   necessary to accomplish the purposes of this section. The rules   must require:                (1)  each district judge, judge of a statutory county   court, associate judge appointed under Chapter 54A of this code or   Chapter 201, Family Code, master, referee, and magistrate within   the judge's first term of office or the judicial officer's first   four years of service to complete and provide certification of   completion of 12 hours of training that include at least:                      (A)  four hours dedicated to issues related to   trafficking of persons, [and] child abuse and neglect, and elder   abuse and neglect that cover at least two of the topics described in   Subsections (d)(8) through (12) and (d)(14) [(d)(8)-(12)];                      (B)  six hours dedicated to the training described   by Subsections (d)(5), (6), and (7); and                      (C)  one hour dedicated to the training described   by Subsection (d)(13);                (2)  each judge and judicial officer during each   additional term in office or four years of service to complete and   provide certification of completion of an additional five hours of   training that include at least:                      (A)  two hours dedicated to the training described   by Subsections (d)(11) and (12); and                      (B)  one hour dedicated to the training described   by Subsection (d)(13); and                (3)  each judge of a court with primary responsibility   for family law or family violence matters to complete and provide   certification of completion of an additional hour of training   described by Subsection (d)(13) every two years.          (b-1)  The rules adopted under Subsection (b) must exempt   from the training requirements of this section each judge or   judicial officer, including an associate judge, who files an   affidavit stating the judge or judicial officer does not hear cases   involving family violence, sexual assault, trafficking of persons,   or child abuse and neglect.          (d)  The instruction must include information about:                (1)  statutory and case law relating to videotaping a   child's testimony and relating to competency of children to   testify;                (2)  methods for eliminating the trauma to the child   caused by the court process;                (3)  case law, statutory law, and procedural rules   relating to family violence, sexual assault, trafficking of   persons, and child abuse and neglect;                (4)  methods for providing protection for victims of   family violence, sexual assault, trafficking of persons, and child   abuse and neglect;                (5)  available community and state resources for   counseling and other aid to victims and to offenders;                (6)  gender bias in the judicial process;                (7)  dynamics and effects of being a victim of sexual   assault, trafficking of persons, or child abuse and neglect;                (8)  dynamics of sexual abuse of children, including   child abuse accommodation syndrome and grooming;                (9)  impact of substance abuse on an unborn child and on   a person's ability to care for a child;                (10)  issues of attachment and bonding between children   and caregivers;                (11)  issues of child development that pertain to   trafficking of persons and child abuse and neglect;                (12)  medical findings regarding physical abuse,   sexual abuse, trafficking of persons, and child abuse and neglect;   [and]                (13)  dynamics of family violence; and                (14)  elder abuse and neglect.          SECTION 7.07.  Section 22.216(n-2), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (n-2)  Notwithstanding Subsection (n-1), the Court of   Appeals for the Fifteenth Court of Appeals District consists of a   chief justice and of two justices holding places numbered   consecutively beginning with Place 2 for the first three years   following the court's creation.  Place 4 shall be created and the   initial vacancy in that place shall be filled for the fourth year   following the court's creation.  Place 5 shall be created and the   initial vacancy in that place shall be filled for the fifth year   following the court's creation. This subsection expires September   1, 2029 [2027].          SECTION 7.08.  Section 22.220, Government Code, is amended   by adding Subsection (e) to read as follows:          (e)  A party may not file a notice of appeal in a civil case   requesting assignment of the appeal to the Court of Appeals for the   Fifteenth Court of Appeals District unless the notice includes a   matter arising out of or related to the case that is within the   court's exclusive intermediate appellate jurisdiction.          SECTION 7.09.  Section 51.303, Government Code, is amended   by amending Subsections (b) and (f) and adding Subsection (d) to   read as follows:          (b)  The clerk of a district court shall:                (1)  record the acts and proceedings of the court;                (2)  enter all judgments of the court under the   direction of the judge; [and]                (3)  record all executions issued and the returns on   the executions; and                (4)  accept an application for a protective order filed   under Chapter 82, Family Code.          (d)  Paper records must include a reference opposite each   name to the minutes on which is entered the judgment in the case.          (f)  A case with an electronic record must be searchable by   each party's full name, the case number, and the date on which the   record was made [In addition to the other powers and duties of this   section, a district clerk shall accept applications for protective   orders under Chapter 71, Family Code].          SECTION 7.10.  Section 51.903(d), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (d)  The district clerk may not collect a filing fee under   Section 12.005, Civil Practice and Remedies Code, for a filing [a   motion] under this section.          SECTION 7.11.  Section 53.001(a), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (a)  The judges of the 30th, 70th, 71st, 78th, 89th, and   161st[, and 341st] district courts, the judges of the district   courts having jurisdiction in Taylor County, the judges of the   county courts at law of Taylor County, and the judge of the County   Court of Harrison County shall each appoint a bailiff.          SECTION 7.12.  Section 57.002(d), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (d)  Subject to Subsection (e), in a county with a population   of 50,000 or more, a court may appoint a spoken language interpreter   who is not a certified or licensed court interpreter:                (1)  if:                      (A) [(1)]  the language necessary in the   proceeding is a language other than Spanish; and                      (B) [(2)]  the court makes a finding that there is   no licensed court interpreter within 75 miles who can interpret in   the language that is necessary in a proceeding; or                 (2)  if the court is a justice court, municipal court,   or municipal court of record.          SECTION 7.13.  Subchapter C, Chapter 71, Government Code, is   amended by adding Section 71.0354 to read as follows:          Sec. 71.0354.  PROSECUTING ATTORNEY INFORMATION. (a) In   this section, "prosecuting attorney" means a county attorney,   district attorney, or criminal district attorney representing this   state in criminal matters before the district or other courts of the   county.          (b)  Each prosecuting attorney shall report in the form and   manner prescribed by the council information on:                (1)  the categories of criminal offenses prosecuted by   the prosecuting attorney and the number of criminal cases in each   category;                (2)  the number of personnel employed by the   prosecuting attorney and whether that number is sufficient to   support the prosecutor's caseload;                (3)  the number of times a defendant was released as   provided by Article 17.151, Code of Criminal Procedure; and                (4)  the number of electronic notices submitted by the   prosecuting attorney to a court as required by Article   17.027(a)(2), Code of Criminal Procedure.          (c)  In prescribing the information to be submitted and form   and manner of submission of the information under Subsection (b),   the council shall consult with:                (1)  the Texas District and County Attorneys   Association; and                (2)  other interested persons.          SECTION 7.14.  Section 72.015(c), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (c)  The judicial security division shall:                (1)  serve as a central resource for information on   local and national best practices for court security and the safety   of court personnel;                (2)  provide an expert opinion on the technical aspects   of court security; [and]                (3)  keep abreast of and provide training on recent   court security improvements; and                (4)  develop a model court emergency management plan as   a resource for court security committees.          SECTION 7.15.  Section 72.016, Government Code, is amended   to read as follows:          Sec. 72.016.  NOTIFICATION PROCEDURE FOR JUDICIAL PRIVACY.   The director shall develop a procedure to regularly notify county   registrars, the Department of Public Safety, the Texas Ethics   Commission, and any other state or local government agency the   office determines should be notified of the judges, judges'   spouses, employees of the Office of Court Administration of the   Texas Judicial System and entities administratively attached to the   office, employees and commissioners of the State Commission on   Judicial Conduct, and related family members whose personal   information must be kept from public records, as provided under   Sections 552.117 and 572.035 of this code, Sections 13.0021 and   15.0215, Election Code, Section 25.025, Tax Code, and Section   521.121, Transportation Code.          SECTION 7.16.  Section 72.083, Government Code, is amended   by adding Subsection (c) to read as follows:          (c)  Notwithstanding Subsection (b), if the director   determines a performance measure listed in Subsection (b) does not   accurately reflect a court's performance in probate and mental   health matters, the director may develop an alternative performance   measure to assess the efficient and timely adjudication of those   matters and include the alternative performance measure in the   annual report required under Subsection (b).          SECTION 7.17.  Section 74.024(d), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (d)  Any rules adopted under this section remain in effect   unless and until disapproved by the legislature. The clerk of the   supreme court shall file with the secretary of state the rules or   any amendments to the rules adopted by the supreme court under this   section and shall provide [mail] a copy of the rules and any   amendments to each registered member of the State Bar not later than   the 120th day before the date on which they become effective. The   supreme court shall allow a period of 60 days for review and comment   on the rules and any amendments. The clerk of the supreme court   shall report the rules or amendments to the rules to the next   regular session of the legislature by providing [mailing] a copy of   the rules or amendments to the rules to each elected member of the   legislature on or before December 1 immediately preceding the   session.          SECTION 7.18.  Section 74.051(c), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (c)  A presiding judge [who is a retired or former district   judge or a retired appellate judge and who presides over an   administrative region with 30 or more district courts, statutory   county courts, and retired and former judges named on the list   maintained under Section 74.055 for the administrative region] is   entitled to an annual salary for each fiscal year, based on the   number of district courts, business courts, and statutory county   courts in the administrative region, the number of associate judges   appointed by the presiding judge under Chapter 201, Family Code,   and the number of retired and former judges named on the list   maintained under Section 74.055 for the administrative region, in   an amount equal to:            Number of Courts and Judges Salary                   [30 to] 49 or fewer 50 [30] percent of the state base salary paid to a district judge as set by the General Appropriations Act in accordance with Section 659.012(a)                  50 to 69 55 [35] percent of the state base salary paid to a district judge as set by the General Appropriations Act in accordance with Section 659.012(a)                  70 to 89 60 [40] percent of the state base salary paid to a district judge as set by the General Appropriations Act in accordance with Section 659.012(a)                  90 or more 65 [45] percent of the state base salary paid to a district judge as set by the General Appropriations Act in accordance with Section 659.012(a)          SECTION 7.19.  Section 74.091, Government Code, is amended   by amending Subsection (b) and adding Subsection (b-1) to read as   follows:          (b)  In a county with two or more district courts the judges   of those courts shall elect a district judge as local   administrative district judge:                (1)  for a term of [not more than] two years; or                (2)  if the district judge's term ends before the second   anniversary of the date the district judge is elected as local   administrative judge, for the remainder of the district judge's   term.          (b-1)  The local administrative district judge may not be   elected on the basis of rotation or seniority.          SECTION 7.20.  Section 74.092, Government Code, is amended   by amending Subsection (a) and adding Subsection (c) to read as   follows:          (a)  A local administrative judge, for the courts for which   the judge serves as local administrative judge, shall:                (1)  implement and execute the local rules of   administration, including the assignment, docketing, transfer, and   hearing of cases;                (2)  appoint any special or standing committees   necessary or desirable for court management and administration;                (3)  promulgate local rules of administration if the   other judges do not act by a majority vote;                (4)  recommend to the regional presiding judge any   needs for assignment from outside the county to dispose of court   caseloads;                (5)  supervise the expeditious movement of court   caseloads, subject to local, regional, and state rules of   administration;                (6)  provide the supreme court and the office of court   administration requested statistical and management information;                (7)  set the hours and places for holding court in the   county;                (8)  supervise the employment and performance of   nonjudicial personnel;                (9)  supervise the budget and fiscal matters of the   local courts, subject to local rules of administration;                (10)  coordinate and cooperate with any other local   administrative judge in the district in the assignment of cases in   the courts' concurrent jurisdiction for the efficient operation of   the court system and the effective administration of justice;                (11)  if requested by the courts the judge serves,   establish and maintain the lists required by Section 37.003 and   ensure appointments are made from the lists in accordance with   Section 37.004;                (12)  perform other duties as may be directed by the   chief justice or a regional presiding judge; and                (13)  establish a court security committee to adopt   security policies and procedures for the trial courts served by the   local administrative district judge, including by adopting a court   emergency management plan, that is composed of:                      (A)  the local administrative district judge, or   the judge's designee, who serves as presiding officer of the   committee;                      (B)  a representative of the sheriff's office;                      (C)  a representative of a constable's office;                      (D)  a representative of the county commissioners   court;                      (E) [(D)]  one judge of each type of court in the   county, including a justice of the peace and excluding the judge of   [other than] a municipal court or a municipal court of record;                      (F) [(E)]  a representative of any county   attorney's office, district attorney's office, or criminal district   attorney's office that serves in the applicable courts; and                      (G) [(F)]  any other person the committee   determines necessary to assist the committee.          (c)  Notwithstanding Section 551.001 or 552.003, a court   security committee established under this section is not a   governmental body for the purposes of Chapter 551 or 552.          SECTION 7.21.  Section 74.092(b), Government Code, is   redesignated as Section 74.0922, Government Code, and amended to   read as follows:          Sec. 74.0922.  DUTIES OF COURT SECURITY COMMITTEE. [(b)] A   court security committee established under Section 74.092(a)(13)   shall meet at least once annually and shall develop and submit   recommendations [may recommend] to the county commissioners court   on the uses of resources and expenditures of money for courthouse   security, but may not direct the assignment of those resources or   the expenditure of those funds.          SECTION 7.22.  Chapter 74, Government Code, is amended by   adding Subchapter D-1 to read as follows:   SUBCHAPTER D-1. COURT LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE          Sec. 74.0981.  COURT LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE. The Office of   Court Administration of the Texas Judicial System shall hold an   annual leadership conference to provide information to presiding   judges of administrative regions, local administrative judges, and   court administrators related to:                (1)  court budgets and operational funding;                (2)  court activity statistics and case-level   information on the amount and character of the business transacted   by the state trial courts;                (3)  the duties of a local administrative judge; and                (4)  other matters related to court administration.          Sec. 74.0982.  REIMBURSEMENT.  The Office of Court   Administration of the Texas Judicial System may reimburse a   presiding judge of an administrative region, a local administrative   judge, or a court administrator for the expense of attending the   leadership conference described by Section 74.0981 to the extent   money is appropriated to the office for that purpose.          SECTION 7.23.  Section 75.001(d), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (d)  A retiree who makes an election under this section shall   be:                (1)  designated a senior judge; and                (2)  considered a judge of a court of this state for the   purpose of appointment to a judicial branch board, commission, or   council.          SECTION 7.24.  Section 121.002(c), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (c)  Notwithstanding any other law, a specialty court   program may not operate until the judge, magistrate, or   coordinator:                (1)  provides to the Office of Court Administration of   the Texas Judicial System:                      (A)  written notice of the program;                      (B)  any resolution or other official declaration   under which the program was established; and                      (C)  a copy of the program policy manual,   participant handbook, or other adopted documentation describing   the operational plan of [applicable strategic plan that   incorporates duties related to supervision that will be required   under] the program; and                (2)  receives from the office written verification of   the program's compliance with Subdivision (1).          SECTION 7.25.  Section 406.026, Government Code, is amended   to read as follows:          Sec. 406.026.  ELECTRONIC NOTARIZATION. In a proceeding   filed under Title 1 or 5, Family Code, if a signature is required to   be notarized, acknowledged, verified, or made under oath, the   requirement may be satisfied if the electronic signature of the   person authorized to perform that act, together with all other   information required to be included by other applicable law, is   attached to or logically associated with the signature required to   be notarized, acknowledged, verified, or made under oath.          SECTION 7.26.  Section 659.012, Government Code, is amended   by amending Subsection (d) and adding Subsection (d-1) to read as   follows:          (d)  Notwithstanding any other provision in this section or   other law, [in a county with more than five district courts,] a   district judge who serves as a local administrative district judge   under Section 74.091 is entitled to an annual base salary from the   state in the amount provided under Subsection (a) or (b) and an   additional annual [in the] amount from the state equal to:                (1)  in a county with three or four district courts,   three percent of the annual base [$5,000 more than the maximum]   salary for a judge of a district court [from the state to which the   judge is otherwise entitled] under Subsection (a);                (2)  in a county with more than four but fewer than 10   district courts, five percent of the annual base salary for a judge   of a district court under Subsection (a); or                (3)  in a county with 10 or more district courts, seven   percent of the annual base salary for a judge of a district court   under Subsection (a) [or (b)].          (d-1)  Notwithstanding any other provision in this section   or other law, a judge of a division of the business court who serves   as administrative presiding judge under Section 25A.009 is entitled   to an annual base salary from the state in the amount provided under   Subsection (a) or (b) and an additional annual amount equal to the   amount provided under Subsection (d)(3).          SECTION 7.27.  Section 574.001(b), Health and Safety Code,   is amended to read as follows:          (b)  Except as provided by Subsection (f), the application   must be filed with the county clerk in the county in which the   proposed patient:                (1)  resides;                (2)  is located at the time the application is filed [is   found]; [or]                (3)  was apprehended under Chapter 573; or                (4)  is receiving mental health services by court order   or under Subchapter A, Chapter 573.          SECTION 7.28.  Section 118.011(a), Local Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (a)  A county clerk shall collect the following fees for   services rendered to any person:                (1)  Personal Property Records Filing (Sec. 118.012):                      (A)  for the first page$ 5.00;                      (B)  for each additional page or part of a page on   which there are visible marks of any kind$ 4.00;                (2)  Real Property Records Filing (Sec. 118.013):                      (A)  for the first page$ 5.00;                      (B)  for each additional page or part of a page on   which there are visible marks of any kind$ 4.00;                      (C)  for all or part of each 8-1/2" X 14"   attachment or rider$ 4.00;                      (D)  for each name in excess  of five names that   has to  be indexed in all  records in  which the  document must be     indexed $ 0.25;                (3)  Certified Papers (Sec. 118.014):                      (A)  for the clerk's certificate$ 5.00;                      (B)  printed on paper, plus a fee for each page or   part of a page$ 1.00;                      (C)  that is a paper document converted to   electronic format, for each page or part of a page$1;                      (D)  that is an electronic copy of an electronic   document:                            (i)  for each document up to 10 pages in   length$1;                            (ii)  for each page or part of a page of a   document over 10 pages$0.10;                (4)  Noncertified Papers (Sec. 118.0145):                      (A)  printed on paper, for each page or part of a   page$ 1.00;                      (B)  that is a paper document converted to   electronic format, for each page or part of a page$1;                      (C)  that is an electronic copy of an electronic   document:                            (i)  for each document up to 10 pages in   length$1;                            (ii)  for each page or part of a page of a   document over 10 pages$0.10;                (5)  Birth or Death Certificate (Sec. 118.015)same   as state registrar;                (6)  Bond Approval (Sec. 118.016)$ 5.00 [3.00];                (7)  Marriage License (Sec. 118.018)$60.00;                (8)  Declaration of Informal Marriage (Sec.   118.019)$25.00;                (9)  Brand Registration (Sec. 118.020)$ 5.00;                (10)  Oath Administration (Sec. 118.021)$ 1.00.          SECTION 7.29.  Section 135.101(a), Local Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (a)  A person shall pay in a district court, statutory county   court, or county court in addition to all other fees and court costs   a local consolidated filing fee of:                (1)  $213 on filing any civil case except a probate,   guardianship, or mental health case; and                (2)  $35 on any action other than an original action for   a case subject to Subdivision (1), including [an appeal and] any   counterclaim, cross-action, intervention, contempt action,   interpleader, motion for new trial, motion to reinstate, or   third-party action.          SECTION 7.30.  Section 615.003(a), Local Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (a)  A county [with a population of 150,000 or more] may   construct, enlarge, equip, and operate a parking lot or parking   garage adjacent to or near the county courthouse.          SECTION 7.31.  Sections 53.001(i), 53.009(d), and   74.051(b), Government Code, are repealed.          SECTION 7.32.  (a) In this section:                (1)  "Digital court reporting" means the act of making   a verbatim record of an oral court proceeding, deposition, or   proceeding before a grand jury, referee, or court commissioner for   use in litigation in the courts of this state through the use of   digital technology, electronic recording equipment, or other   recording and transcribing technology.                (2)  "Office" means the Office of Court Administration   of the Texas Judicial System.          (b)  The office shall conduct a study on digital court   reporting, including:                (1)  an evaluation of the current use of digital court   reporting in the courts of this state, including the cost, access,   accuracy, and effectiveness of digital court reporting;                (2)  an analysis of the use of digital court reporting   in other states and jurisdictions; and                (3)  recommendations on any necessary changes to   statutes, rules, regulations, or standards regarding the use of   digital court reporting in this state.          (c)  Not later than October 1, 2026, the office shall submit   a report on the study conducted under this section to the governor,   lieutenant governor, speaker of the house of representatives, and   appropriate standing committees of the legislature.          (d)  This section expires September 1, 2027.          SECTION 7.33.  Section 6.4035(e), Family Code, and Section   406.026, Government Code, as amended by this article, apply to a   waiver of citation executed in a suit for dissolution of a marriage   that is pending in a trial court on September 1, 2025, or that is   filed on or after that date.          SECTION 7.34.  (a) As soon as practicable after September 1,   2025, the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals shall adopt the rules   necessary to implement Section 22.110, Government Code, as amended   by this article.          (b)  Section 22.110, Government Code, as amended by this   article, applies to all judges, masters, referees, and magistrates   elected, appointed, or holding office on or after September 1,   2025.          SECTION 7.35.  Section 22.220(e), Government Code, as added   by this article, applies only to a notice of appeal filed on or   after September 1, 2025. A notice of appeal filed before that date   is governed by the law in effect on the date the notice was filed,   and the former law is continued in effect for that purpose.          SECTION 7.36.  Section 53.001, Government Code, as amended   by this article, does not apply to a bailiff appointed by the judge   of the 341st or 406th district court before September 1, 2025.  A   bailiff appointed by the judge of the 341st or 406th district court   before that date shall continue to serve and receive compensation   from Webb County in the same manner as before that date and shall be   eligible to receive any longevity or cost of living salary   increases available to a bailiff serving in Webb County before that   date.  The former law is continued in effect for the purposes of   this section.          SECTION 7.37.  Not later than September 1, 2026, the Texas   Judicial Council shall prescribe the information, and form and   manner of submission, a prosecuting attorney in this state is   required to report under Section 71.0354, Government Code, as added   by this article.          SECTION 7.38.  The change in law made by this article to   Section 574.001, Health and Safety Code, applies only to an   application for court-ordered mental health services submitted on   or after September 1, 2025.   ARTICLE 8.  COPIES CERTIFIED BY CLERKS          SECTION 8.01.  Subchapter D, Chapter 51, Government Code, is   amended by adding Section 51.3033 to read as follows:          Sec. 51.3033.  CERTIFIED COPIES. A certified copy made of an   original document on file in a district clerk's office must   include:                (1)  on each page of the copy:                      (A)  the clerk's signature or initials;                      (B)  the district court seal; or                      (C)  a unique document certification and   paginated page number; and                (2)  on the final page of the copy:                      (A)  the clerk's attestation certifying that the   copy is a true and correct copy of the original document filed in   the clerk's office;                      (B)  the number of pages copied; and                      (C)  the date the copy was issued.          SECTION 8.02.  Subchapter F, Chapter 51, Government Code, is   amended by adding Section 51.503 to read as follows:          Sec. 51.503.  CERTIFIED COPIES. A certified copy made of an   original document on file in a joint clerk's office must include:                (1)  on each page of the copy:                      (A)  the clerk's signature or initials;                      (B)  the applicable court's seal; or                      (C)  a unique document certification and   paginated page number; and                (2)  on the final page of the copy:                      (A)  the clerk's attestation certifying that the   copy is a true and correct copy of the original document filed in   the clerk's office;                      (B)  the number of pages copied; and                      (C)  the date the copy was issued.          SECTION 8.03.  Chapter 191, Local Government Code, is   amended by adding Section 191.0041 to read as follows:          Sec. 191.0041.  CERTIFIED COPIES. A certified copy made of   an original document on file in a county clerk's office must   include:                (1)  on each page of the copy:                      (A)  either:                            (i)  the clerk's signature or initials; or                            (ii)  a unique document certification and   paginated page number; and                      (B)  either:                             (i)  the commissioners court seal on a copy   of a document that is not a court document; or                             (ii)  the court seal on a copy of a court   document; and                (2)  on the final page of the copy:                       (A)  the clerk's attestation certifying that the   copy is a true and correct copy of the original document filed in   the clerk's office;                      (B)  the number of pages copied; and                      (C)  the date the copy was issued.   ARTICLE 9.  YOUTH DIVERSION          SECTION 9.01.  Article 45A.253(b), Code of Criminal   Procedure, is amended to read as follows:          (b)  A judge shall [may] allow a defendant who is a child, as   defined by Article 45A.453(a), to elect at the time of conviction,   as defined by Section 133.101, Local Government Code, to discharge   the fine and costs by:                (1)  performing community service or receiving   tutoring under Article 45A.460, regardless of whether the   applicable offense occurred at a location specified by Subsection   (a) of that article; or                (2)  paying the fine and costs in a manner described by   Article 45A.251(b).          SECTION 9.02.  (a) Chapter 45A, Code of Criminal Procedure,   is amended to conform to Section 2, Chapter 525 (H.B. 3186), Acts of   the 88th Legislature, Regular Session, 2023, and Chapter 1033 (S.B.   24), Acts of the 88th Legislature, Regular Session, 2023, and is   further amended by adding Subchapter K to read as follows:   SUBCHAPTER K.  YOUTH DIVERSION          Art. 45A.501.  DEFINITIONS. In this subchapter:                (1)  "Charge" means a formal or informal allegation of   an offense, including a citation, written promise to appear,   complaint, or pending complaint.                (2)  "Child" has the meaning assigned by Article   45A.453(a).                (3)  "Court" means a justice court, municipal court, or   other court subject to this chapter.                (4)  "Diversion" means an intervention strategy that   redirects a child from formal criminal prosecution and holds the   child accountable for the child's actions. The term includes   diversion under Article 45A.509 or 45A.510.                (5)  "Offense" means a misdemeanor punishable by fine   only, other than a traffic offense.                (6)  "Parent" has the meaning assigned by Article   45A.457(a).                (7)  "Service provider" means a governmental agency,   political subdivision, open-enrollment charter school, nonprofit   organization, or other entity that provides services to children or   families.                (8)  "Traffic offense" has the meaning assigned by   Section 51.02, Family Code.                (9)  "Youth diversion plan" means a plan adopted under   Article 45A.506.          Art. 45A.502.  APPLICABILITY. This subchapter applies only   to a child who is alleged to have engaged in conduct that   constitutes a misdemeanor punishable by fine only, other than a   traffic offense.          Art. 45A.503.  TRANSFER TO JUVENILE COURT NOT AFFECTED.   Nothing in this subchapter precludes:                (1)  a case involving a child from being referred,   adjudicated, or disposed of as conduct indicating a need for   supervision under Title 3, Family Code; or                (2)  a waiver of criminal jurisdiction and transfer of   a child's case as provided by Section 51.08, Family Code.          Art. 45A.504.  DIVERSION ELIGIBILITY. (a) Except as   otherwise provided by this subchapter, a child shall be diverted   from formal criminal prosecution as provided by this subchapter.          (b)  A child is eligible to enter into a diversion agreement   under this subchapter only once every 12 months.          (b-1)  A child is eligible to enter into a diversion   agreement under this subchapter for more than one offense if the   offenses are alleged to have occurred as part of the same criminal   episode, as defined by Section 3.01, Penal Code.          (c)  A child is not eligible for diversion if the child has   previously had an unsuccessful diversion under this subchapter.          (d)  A child is not eligible for diversion if a diversion is   objected to by the attorney representing the state.          (e)  A court may not divert a child from criminal prosecution   as provided by this subchapter without the written consent of the   child and the child's parent.          Art. 45A.505.  DIVERSION STRATEGIES. (a) Diversion   strategies include:                (1)  requiring a child to participate in a program,   including:                      (A)  a court-approved teen court program operated   by a service provider;                      (B)  a school-related program;                      (C)  an educational program, including an alcohol   awareness program, a tobacco awareness program, or a drug education   program;                      (D)  a rehabilitation program; or                      (E)  a self-improvement program, including a   program relating to self-esteem, leadership, self-responsibility,   empathy, parenting, parental responsibility, manners, violence   avoidance, anger management, life skills, wellness, or dispute   resolution;                (2)  referring a child to a service provider for   services, including:                      (A)  at-risk youth services under Subchapter D,   Chapter 137, Human Resources Code;                      (B)  juvenile case manager services under Article   45A.451;                      (C)  work and job skills training, including job   interviewing and work preparation;                      (D)  academic monitoring or tutoring, including   preparation for a high school equivalency examination administered   under Section 7.111, Education Code;                      (E)  community-based services;                      (F)  mental health screening and clinical   assessment;                      (G)  counseling, including private or in-school   counseling; or                      (H)  mentoring services;                (3)  requiring a child to:                      (A)  participate in mediation or other dispute   resolution processes;                      (B)  submit to alcohol or drug testing; or                      (C)  substantially comply with a course of   treatment prescribed by a physician or other licensed medical or   mental health professional; and                (4)  requiring a child, by court order, to:                      (A)  pay restitution not to exceed $100 for an   offense against property under Title 7, Penal Code;                      (B)  perform not more than 20 hours of community   service; or                      (C)  perform any other reasonable action   determined by the court.          (b)  A diversion strategy may be imposed under:                (1)  an intermediate diversion under Article 45A.509;                (2)  a diversion by a justice or judge under Article   45A.510; or                (3)  a system of graduated sanctions for certain school   offenses under Section 37.144, Education Code.          (c)  A diversion strategy under this subchapter may not   require a child who is a home-schooled student, as defined by   Section 29.916, Education Code, to:                (1)  attend an elementary or secondary school; or                (2)  use an educational curriculum other than the   curriculum selected by the parent.          Art. 45A.506.  YOUTH DIVERSION PLAN. (a) A youth diversion   plan is a written plan that describes the types of strategies that   will be used to implement youth diversion. A youth diversion plan   does not limit the types of diversion strategies that may be imposed   under a diversion agreement under Article 45A.508.          (b)  Each justice and municipal court shall adopt a youth   diversion plan.          (c)  A youth diversion plan may be devised for a county or   municipality or an individual court within a county or   municipality.          (d)  In accordance with Chapter 791, Government Code, a local   government may enter into an agreement with one or more local   governments to create a regional youth diversion plan and   collaborate in the implementation of this subchapter.          (e)  A youth diversion plan may include an agreement with a   service provider to provide services for a diversion strategy.          (f)  A youth diversion plan may contain guidelines for   disposition or diversion of a child's case by law enforcement. The   guidelines are not mandatory.          (g)  A current youth diversion plan must be maintained on   file for public inspection in each justice and municipal court,   including courts that collaborate with one or more counties or   municipalities.          (h)  A court or local government may adopt rules necessary to   coordinate services under a youth diversion plan or to implement   this subchapter.          Art. 45A.507.  YOUTH DIVERSION COORDINATOR. (a) A court may   designate a youth diversion coordinator to assist the court in:                (1)  determining whether a child is eligible for   diversion;                (2)  employing a diversion strategy authorized by this   subchapter;                (3)  presenting and maintaining diversion agreements;                (4)  monitoring diversions;                (5)  maintaining records regarding whether one or more   diversions were successful or unsuccessful; and                (6)  coordinating referrals to court.          (b)  The responsibilities of the youth diversion coordinator   may be performed by:                (1)  a court administrator or court clerk, or a person   who regularly performs the duties of court administrator or court   clerk;                (2)  an individual or entity that provides juvenile   case manager services under Article 45A.451;                (3)  a court-related services office;                (4)  a community supervision and corrections   department, including a juvenile probation department;                (5)  a county or municipal employee, including a peace   officer;                (6)  a community volunteer;                (7)  an institution of higher education, including a   public, private, or independent institution of higher education; or                (8)  a qualified nonprofit organization as determined   by the court.          Art. 45A.508.  DIVERSION AGREEMENT. (a) A diversion   agreement must identify the parties to the agreement and the   responsibilities of the child and the child's parent to ensure   their meaningful participation in a diversion under Article 45A.509   or 45A.510.          (b)  Stated objectives in a diversion agreement must be   measurable, realistic, and reasonable and consider the   circumstances of the child, the best interests of the child, and the   long-term safety of the community.          (c)  A diversion agreement must include:                (1)  the terms of the agreement, including one or more   diversions required to be completed by the child, written in a clear   and concise manner and identifying any offense or charge being   diverted;                (2)  possible outcomes or consequences of a successful   diversion and an unsuccessful diversion;                (3)  an explanation that participation in a diversion   is not an admission of guilt and a guilty plea is not required to   participate in a diversion;                (4)  an explanation of the process that will be used for   reviewing and monitoring compliance with the terms of the   agreement;                (5)  the period of the diversion;                (6)  a verification that:                      (A)  the child and the child's parent were   notified of the child's rights, including the right to refuse   diversion; and                      (B)  the child knowingly and voluntarily consents   to participate in the diversion; and                (7)  written acknowledgment and acceptance of the   agreement by the child and the child's parent.          (d)  The terms of an agreement may vary depending on the   circumstances of the child, including the child's age and ability,   the charge being diverted, or the diversion strategy used.          (e)  A charge may not be filed against a child or, if filed,   shall be dismissed by the court if the child:                (1)  does not contest the charge;                (2)  is eligible for diversion under Article 45A.504;   and                (3)  accepts the terms of the agreement.          (f)  Entering into a diversion agreement under this article   extends the court's jurisdiction for the term of the agreement.          (g)  On entering into a diversion agreement, a copy of the   agreement shall be provided to the child and the child's parent, the   clerk of the court, a youth diversion coordinator, and any person   specified by the youth diversion plan.          Art. 45A.509.  INTERMEDIATE DIVERSION. (a) If provided by a   youth diversion plan, a youth diversion coordinator or juvenile   case manager shall advise the child and the child's parent before a   case is filed that the case may be diverted under this article for a   reasonable period not to exceed 180 days if:                (1)  the child is eligible for diversion under Article   45A.504;                (2)  diversion is in the best interests of the child and   promotes the long-term safety of the community;                (3)  the child and the child's parent consent to   diversion with the knowledge that diversion is optional; and                (4)  the child and the child's parent are informed that   they may terminate the diversion at any time and, if terminated, the   case will be referred to court.          (b)  The terms of a diversion agreement under this article   must be in writing and may include any of the diversion strategies   under Article 45A.505.          (c)  The case of a child who successfully complies with the   terms of a diversion agreement under this article shall be closed   and reported as successful to the court.          (d)  A child who does not comply with the terms of a diversion   agreement under this article shall be referred to court under   Article 45A.511.          Art. 45A.510.  DIVERSION BY JUSTICE OR JUDGE. (a)  If a   charge involving a child who is eligible for diversion is filed with   a court, and the child does not contest the charge, a justice or   judge shall divert the case under this article without the child   having to enter a plea.          (b)  A diversion under this article may not exceed 180 days.          (c)  The terms of a diversion agreement under this article   must be in writing and may include any of the diversion strategies   described by Article 45A.505.          (d)  The case of a child who successfully complies with the   terms of a diversion agreement under this article shall be closed   and reported as successful to the court.          (e)  A child who does not comply with the terms of a diversion   agreement under this article shall be referred to court for a   hearing under Article 45A.511.          Art. 45A.511.  REFERRAL TO COURT. (a)  A court shall conduct   a non-adversarial hearing for a child who does not successfully   complete the terms of a diversion under Article 45A.509 or 45A.510   and is referred to the court.          (b)  The hearing is an opportunity for a justice or judge to   confer with the child and the child's parent to determine whether a   diversion should be declared unsuccessful by the court. The court   may also hear from any person who may be of assistance to the child   or the court in determining what is in the best interests of the   child and the long-term safety of the community.          (c)  After the hearing, a court may enter an order:                (1)  amending or setting aside terms in the diversion   agreement;                (2)  extending the diversion for a period not to exceed   one year from the initial start date of the diversion;                (3)  issuing a continuance for the hearing for a period   not to exceed 60 days to allow an opportunity for compliance with   the terms of the diversion;                (4)  subject to Subsection (d), requiring the child's   parent to perform any act or refrain from performing any act as the   court determines will increase the likelihood the child will   successfully complete the diversion and comply with any other order   of the court that is reasonable and necessary for the welfare of the   child;                (5)  finding the diversion successful on the basis of   substantial compliance; or                (6)  finding the diversion unsuccessful and:                      (A)  transferring the child to juvenile court for   alleged conduct indicating a need for supervision under Section   51.08, Family Code; or                      (B)  referring the charge to the prosecutor for   consideration of re-filing.          (d)  An order under Subsection (c)(4) may not have the   substantive effect of interfering with a parent's fundamental right   to determine how to raise the parent's child, unless the court finds   that the interference is necessary to prevent significant   impairment of the child's physical, mental, or emotional health.          (e)  An order under Subsection (c)(4) is enforceable against   the parent by contempt.          (f)  The statute of limitations in Article 12.02 is tolled   during the diversion period for purposes of Subsection (c)(6)(B).          Art. 45A.512.  LOCAL YOUTH DIVERSION ADMINISTRATIVE FEE.   (a)  The clerk of a justice or municipal court may collect from a   child's parent an administrative fee not to exceed $50 to defray the   costs of the diversion of the child's case under this subchapter.          (b)  The fee under this article may not be collected unless   specified as a term of the diversion agreement accepted by the   child's parent. If the fee is not paid after giving the child's   parent an opportunity to be heard, the court shall order the parent,   if financially able, to pay the fee to the clerk of the court.          (c)  A court shall waive the fee if the child's parent is   indigent or does not have sufficient resources or income to pay the   fee.          (d)  A court may adopt rules for the waiver of a fee for   financial hardship under this article.          (e)  An order under Subsection (b) is enforceable against the   parent by contempt.          (f)  The clerk of the court shall keep a record of the fees   collected under this article and shall forward the funds to the   county treasurer, municipal treasurer, or person fulfilling the   role of a county treasurer or municipal treasurer, as appropriate.          (g)  The fee collected under this article shall be deposited   in a special account that can be used only to offset the cost of the   operations of youth diversion programs under this subchapter.          (h)  Except for the fee authorized under Subsection (a), a   fee may not be assessed for a child diverted under this subchapter.          (i)  The diversion of a child may not be contingent on   payment of a fee under this article.          Art. 45A.513.  DIVERSION RECORDS. (a)  A justice or   municipal court shall maintain statistics for each diversion   strategy authorized by this subchapter.          (b)  Other than statistical records, all records generated   under this subchapter are confidential under Article 45A.462.          (c)  All records of a diversion pertaining to a child under   this subchapter shall be expunged without the requirement of a   motion or request, on the child's 18th birthday.          (b)  Section 2, Chapter 525 (H.B. 3186), Acts of the 88th   Legislature, Regular Session, 2023, which added Subchapter E,   Chapter 45, Code of Criminal Procedure, is repealed.          (c)  Section 4, Chapter 525 (H.B. 3186), Acts of the 88th   Legislature, Regular Session, 2023, which amended Article 45.041,   Code of Criminal Procedure, is repealed.          SECTION 9.03.  Section 53.01(b-1), Family Code, is amended   to read as follows:          (b-1)  The person who is conducting the preliminary   investigation shall, as appropriate, refer the child's case to a   community resource coordination group, a local-level interagency   staffing group, or other community juvenile service provider for   services under Section 53.011, if the person determines that:                (1)  [the child is younger than 12 years of age;                [(2)]  there is probable cause to believe the child   engaged in delinquent conduct or conduct indicating a need for   supervision;                (2) [(3)]  the child's case does not require referral   to the prosecuting attorney under Subsection (d) or (f);                (3) [(4)]  the child is eligible for deferred   prosecution under Section 53.03; and                (4) [(5)]  the child:                      (A)  is younger than 12 years of age, and the   child  and the child's family are not currently receiving services   under Section 53.011 and would benefit from receiving the services;   or                      (B)  resides in a general residential operation,   as that term is defined by Section 42.002, Human Resources Code.          SECTION 9.04.  Section 82.004, Family Code, is amended to   read as follows:          Sec. 82.004.  FORM AND CONTENT OF APPLICATION.  (a) A person   filing an application under this chapter shall use the protective   order application form created by the Office of Court   Administration of the Texas Judicial System under Section 72.039,   Government Code, that is available on the office's Internet   website, and shall include in the application:                (1)  the name [and county of residence] of each   applicant;                (2)  the county of residence of each applicant, unless   the applicant requests confidentiality pursuant to Section 82.011   or 85.007;                (3)  the name and county of residence of each   individual alleged to have committed family violence;                (4) [(3)]  the relationships between the applicants   and the individual alleged to have committed family violence;                (5) [(4)]  a request for one or more protective orders;   [and]                (6) [(5)]  whether an applicant is receiving services   from the Title IV-D agency in connection with a child support case   and, if known, the agency case number for each open case; and                (7)  any additional information known by the applicant   that may assist in finding the respondent for the purposes of   services.          (b)  An applicant may submit an affidavit of confidentiality   to the court pursuant to Section 72.039, Government Code, or   Section 82.011 or 85.007, Family Code, to omit confidential   information from the application and any subsequent protective   order. An affidavit of confidentiality is only for the court's use   and shall not be transmitted to the respondent.          (c)  A party's failure to use the standardized protective   order form as required under Subsection (a) does not affect the   validity or enforceability of the application or any subsequent   protective order issued.          SECTION 9.05.  Section 42.0426(b), Human Resources Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (b)  A residential child-care facility shall implement a   behavior intervention program approved by the department for the   benefit of a child served by the facility who needs assistance in   managing the child's conduct.  The program must include:                (1)  behavior intervention instruction for staff   members who work directly with children served by the facility,   including crisis response training for emergency behavior   intervention with a goal of limiting law enforcement involvement;   and                (2)  training for all employees regarding the risks   associated with the use of prone restraints.          SECTION 9.06.  Section 152.00145, Human Resources Code, is   amended to read as follows:          Sec. 152.00145.  DIVERSION AND DETENTION POLICY FOR CERTAIN   JUVENILES.  (a)  In this section, "general residential operation"   has the meaning assigned by Section 42.002.          (b)  A juvenile board shall establish policies that   prioritize:                (1)  the diversion from referral to a prosecuting   attorney under Chapter 53, Family Code, of children who are:                      (A)  younger than 12 years of age [from referral   to a prosecuting attorney under Chapter 53, Family Code]; or                      (B)  residing in a general residential operation,   particularly children alleged to have engaged in conduct   constituting a misdemeanor involving violence to a person; and                (2)  the limitation of detention, to circumstances of   last resort, of children who are:                      (A)  younger than 12 years of age; or                      (B)  residing in a general residential operation   [to circumstances of last resort].          (c)  To monitor the success of policies implemented under   Subsection (b) for children who reside in general residential   operations, a juvenile board shall track:                (1)  the number of children referred to the board who   reside in a general residential operation;                (2)  the number of children described by Subdivision   (1) who receive deferred prosecution or are referred to the   juvenile probation department; and                (3)  the general residential operation where a child   described by Subdivision (1) resides.          SECTION 9.07.  Section 53.01(b-1), Family Code, as amended   by this article, applies only to conduct that occurs on or after   September 1, 2025.  Conduct that occurs before September 1, 2025, is   governed by the law in effect on the date the conduct occurred, and   the former law is continued in effect for that purpose.  For the   purposes of this section, conduct occurred before September 1,   2025, if any element of the conduct occurred before that date.   ARTICLE 10.  JUVENILE BOARDS          SECTION 10.01.  Section 152.0191(a), Human Resources Code,   is amended to read as follows:          (a)  The juvenile board of Bee County is composed of the   county judge, [and] the district judges in Bee County, and the judge   of the 2nd Multicounty Court at Law.          SECTION 10.02.  Section 152.0521(a), Human Resources Code,   is amended to read as follows:          (a)  The Comal County Juvenile Board is composed of:                (1)  the county judge;                (2)  the local administrative statutory county court    judge [of each county court at law in the county];                (3)  an elected judicial officer of Comal County   appointed by the local administrative statutory county court judge;                (4)  the local administrative district judge [of the   22nd District Court];                (5)  two elected judicial officers of Comal County   appointed by the local administrative district judge [(4)  the   judge of the 207th District Court]; and                [(5)  the judge of the 433rd District Court;]                (6)  [the judge of the 274th District Court; and                [(7)]  the criminal district attorney of Comal County.          SECTION 10.03.  Section 152.1551(a), Human Resources Code,   is amended to read as follows:          (a)  The juvenile board of Live Oak County is composed of the   county judge, [and] the district judges in Live Oak County, and the   judge of the 2nd Multicounty Court at Law.          SECTION 10.04.  Section 152.1621(a), Human Resources Code,   is amended to read as follows:          (a)  The juvenile board of McMullen County is composed of the   county judge, [and] the district judges in McMullen County, and the   judge of the 2nd Multicounty Court at Law.   ARTICLE 11. CIVIL CRIMINAL COURT PROCEDURES AND SECURITY          SECTION 11.01.  Section 16.073, Civil Practice and Remedies   Code, is amended to read as follows:          Sec. 16.073.  APPLICABILITY OF LIMITATIONS PERIODS TO   ARBITRATION.  A claim that is sought to be arbitrated is subject to   the same limitations period that would apply to the claim if the   claim had been brought in court. Commencing an action asserting a   claim by filing suit in a court of competent jurisdiction will toll   the applicable limitations period for arbitration of the same   claim. [(a)  A party may not assert a claim in an arbitration   proceeding if the party could not bring suit for the claim in court   due to the expiration of the applicable limitations period.          [(b)  A party may assert a claim in an arbitration proceeding   after expiration of the applicable limitations period if:                [(1)  the party brought suit for the claim in court   before the expiration of the applicable limitations period; and                [(2)  the parties to the claim agreed to arbitrate the   claim or a court ordered the parties to arbitrate the claim.]          SECTION 11.02.  Sections 30.015(a) and (b), Civil Practice   and Remedies Code, are amended to read as follows:          (a)  In a civil action filed in a district court, county   court, statutory county court, or statutory probate court, each   party or the party's attorney must provide the clerk of the court   with written notice of the party's name, the party's [and] current   residence or business address, and for a party who is an individual:                (1)  the last three digits of the party's social   security number; or                (2)  the last three digits of the party's Texas driver's   license.          (b)  Unless the party is the defendant in a tax suit, the   [The] notice required by Subsection (a) may not be required from any   party or party's attorney if the [such] party has not appeared or   answered in the civil action.          SECTION 11.03.  Articles 45A.302(b), (c), and (d), Code of   Criminal Procedure, are amended to read as follows:          (b)  In issuing the order of deferral, the judge may impose a   special expense fee [fine] on the defendant in an amount not to   exceed the amount of the fine that could be imposed on the defendant   as punishment for the offense.          (c)  The fee [fine] described by Subsection (b) may be   collected at any time before the date on which the period of   deferral ends.  A judge who orders the collection of the fee [fine]   must require that the amount of the fee [fine] be credited toward   the payment of the amount of any fine imposed by the judge as   punishment for the offense.          (d)  The judge may elect not to impose the special expense   fee [fine] for good cause shown by the defendant.          SECTION 11.04.  Article 102.017, Code of Criminal Procedure,   is amended by adding Subsection (e-1) to read as follows:          (e-1)  In administering or directing funds under Subsection   (e), a commissioners court shall consider the recommendations   provided by a court security committee under Section 74.0922,   Government Code, and the governing body of a municipality shall   consider the recommendations provided by a court security committee   under Sections 29.014(d) and 30.00007(c), Government Code.   ARTICLE 12. MUNICIPAL COURT PROVISIONS          SECTION 12.01.  Section 29.014, Government Code, is amended   by amending Subsections (c) and (d) and adding Subsection (e) to   read as follows:          (c)  The committee shall establish the policies and   procedures necessary to provide adequate security to the municipal   courts served by the presiding or municipal judge, as applicable,   including by developing a court emergency management plan.          (d)  A committee shall [may] recommend to the municipality   the uses of resources and expenditures of money for courthouse   security, but may not direct the assignment of those resources or   the expenditure of those funds.          (e)  Notwithstanding Section 551.001 or 552.003, a court   security committee established under this section is not a   governmental body for the purposes of Chapter 551 or 552.          SECTION 12.02.  Section 30.00007, Government Code, is   amended by amending Subsections (b) and (c) and adding Subsection   (d) to read as follows:          (b)  The presiding judge shall:                (1)  maintain a central docket for cases filed within   the territorial limits of the municipality over which the municipal   courts of record have jurisdiction;                (2)  provide for the distribution of cases from the   central docket to the individual municipal judges to equalize the   distribution of business in the courts;                (3)  request the jurors needed for cases that are set   for trial by jury;                (4)  temporarily assign judges or substitute judges to   exchange benches and to act for each other in a proceeding pending   in a court if necessary for the expeditious disposition of business   in the courts;                (5)  supervise and control the operation and clerical   functions of the administrative department of each court, including   the court's personnel, during the proceedings of the court; and                (6)  establish a court security committee to adopt   security policies and procedures for the courts served by the   presiding judge, including by developing a court emergency   management plan, that is composed of:                      (A)  the presiding judge, or the presiding judge's   designee, who serves as presiding officer of the committee;                      (B)  a representative of the law enforcement   agency or other entity that provides the primary security for the   court;                      (C)  a representative of the municipality; and                      (D)  any other person the committee determines   necessary to assist the committee.          (c)  A court security committee shall [may] recommend to the   governing body the uses of resources and expenditures of money for   courthouse security, but may not direct the assignment of those   resources or the expenditure of those funds.          (d)  Notwithstanding Section 551.001 or 552.003, a court   security committee established under this section is not a   governmental body for the purposes of Chapter 551 or 552.          SECTION 12.03.  Section 30.01014(d), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (d)  [In addition to satisfying the requirements of Section   30.00006(c), a municipal judge must maintain residence in the city   during the tenure of office and must be a resident of the city at the   time of appointment or election.] The judge shall devote as much   time to the office as it requires.          SECTION 12.04.  Chapter 30, Government Code, is amended by   adding Subchapter AAA to read as follows:   SUBCHAPTER AAA. CANYON          Sec. 30.01911.  APPLICABILITY. This subchapter applies to   the city of Canyon.          Sec. 30.01912.  JUDGE. A municipal judge for the city of   Canyon is not required to be a resident of the city.          SECTION 12.05.  As soon as practicable after September 1,   2025, a court security committee shall develop a court emergency   management plan as required by Section 29.014 or 30.00007,   Government Code, as amended by this article.   ARTICLE 13. MISCELLANEOUS COURT AND RECORD PROVISIONS          SECTION 13.01.  Articles 43.09(a) and (k), Code of Criminal   Procedure, are amended to read as follows:          (a)  When a defendant is convicted of a misdemeanor and the   defendant's punishment is assessed at a pecuniary fine or is   confined in a jail after conviction of a felony for which a fine is   imposed, if the defendant is unable to pay the fine and costs   adjudged against the defendant, the defendant may for such time as   will satisfy the judgment be put to work in the county jail   industries program, in the workhouse, or on the county farm, or   public improvements and maintenance projects of the county or a   political subdivision located in whole or in part in the county, as   provided in Article 43.10; or if there is no such county jail   industries program, workhouse, farm, or improvements and   maintenance projects, the defendant shall be confined in jail for a   sufficient length of time to discharge the full amount of fine and   costs adjudged against the defendant; rating such confinement at   $150 [$100] for each day and rating such labor at $150 [$100] for   each day; provided, however, that the defendant may pay the   pecuniary fine assessed against the defendant at any time while the   defendant is serving at work in the county jail industries program,   in the workhouse, or on the county farm, or on the public   improvements and maintenance projects of the county or a political   subdivision located in whole or in part in the county, or while the   defendant is serving the defendant's jail sentence, and in such   instances the defendant is entitled to the credit earned under this   subsection during the time that the defendant has served and the   defendant shall only be required to pay the balance of the pecuniary   fine assessed against the defendant.  A defendant who performs   labor under this article during a day in which the defendant is   confined is entitled to both the credit for confinement and the   credit for labor provided by this article.          (k)  A defendant is considered to have discharged $150 [$100]   of fines or costs for each eight hours of community service   performed under Subsection (f) of this article.          SECTION 13.02.  Article 45A.251(e), Code of Criminal   Procedure, is amended to read as follows:          (e)  In addition to credit under Subsection (d), in imposing   a fine and costs in a case involving a misdemeanor punishable by   fine only, the justice or judge shall credit the defendant for any   period the defendant was confined in jail or prison while awaiting   trial or serving a sentence for another offense if that confinement   occurred after the commission of the misdemeanor.  The credit under   this subsection shall be applied to the amount of the fine and costs   at the rate of not less than $150 for each day of confinement.          SECTION 13.03.  Article 45A.254(e), Code of Criminal   Procedure, is amended to read as follows:          (e)  A defendant is considered to have discharged not less   than $150 [$100] of fines or costs for each eight hours of community   service performed under this article.          SECTION 13.04.  Article 45A.459(i), Code of Criminal   Procedure, is amended to read as follows:          (i)  A defendant is considered to have discharged not less   than $150 [$100] of fines or costs for each eight hours of community   service performed under this article.          SECTION 13.05.  Article 45A.460(i), Code of Criminal   Procedure, is amended to read as follows:          (i)  A defendant is considered to have discharged not less   than $150 [$100] of fines or costs for each eight hours of community   service performed under this article.          SECTION 13.06.  The heading to Section 13.0021, Election   Code, is amended to read as follows:          Sec. 13.0021.  ADDITIONAL REGISTRATION INFORMATION FROM   CERTAIN FEDERAL AND STATE JUDGES, FEDERAL OFFICIALS, CLERKS,   GOVERNMENTAL EMPLOYEES, INCLUDING MUNICIPAL COURT PERSONNEL, AND   FAMILY MEMBERS.          SECTION 13.07.  Section 13.0021(b), Election Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (b)  The registrar of the county shall omit from the   registration list the residence address for a [If the] registration   applicant who is:                (1)  a federal judge, including a federal bankruptcy   judge;                (2)  [,] a state judge;                (3)  [,] a marshal of the United States Marshals   Service;                (4)  [,] a United States attorney;                (5)  a current or former county clerk, district clerk,   or county and district clerk, or a current or former employee of the   office of a county clerk, district clerk, or county and district   clerk or municipal court personnel;                (6)  a current or former employee whose duties relate   to court administration, including a court clerk, court   coordinator, court administrator, juvenile case manager, law   clerk, or staff attorney;                (7)  a current or former employee of the Office of Court   Administration of the Texas Judicial System and entities   administratively attached to the office;[, or]                (8)  a current or former employee or commissioner of   the State Commission on Judicial Conduct; or                (9)  a family member of a person listed in Subdivisions   (1)-(8) [state judge, a federal judge, including a federal   bankruptcy judge, a marshal of the United States Marshals Service,   or a United States attorney, the registrar of the county shall omit   the applicant's residence address from the registration list].          SECTION 13.08.  Subchapter A, Chapter 58, Family Code, is   amended by adding Section 58.010 to read as follows:          Sec. 58.010.  CONFIDENTIALITY OF WARRANTS OF ARREST.   Notwithstanding Article 15.26, Code of Criminal Procedure, an   arrest warrant issued for a child and a complaint or affidavit on   which an arrest warrant issued for a child is based are confidential   and may be disclosed only to the following:                (1)  the judge, probation officer, and professional   staff or consultants of the juvenile court;                (2)  a juvenile justice agency, as defined by Section   58.101;                (3)  a criminal justice agency, as defined by Section   411.082;                (4)  an attorney representing the child's parent in a   proceeding under this title;                (5)  an attorney representing the child;                (6)  a prosecuting attorney; or                (7)  with permission from the juvenile court, another   individual, agency, or institution with a legitimate interest in   the information or court.          SECTION 13.09.  Section 301.052(a), Family Code, is amended   to read as follows:          (a)  A party may request disclosure under Section 301.051 of   any or all of the following:                (1)  the correct names of the parties to the action;                (2)  the name, address, and telephone number of any   potential parties;                (3)  the legal theories and, in general, the factual   bases of the responding party's claims or defenses;                (4)  the amount and any method of calculating economic   damages;                (5)  the name, address, and telephone number of any   person having knowledge of relevant facts and a brief statement of   each identified person's connection with the action;                (6)  for any testifying expert:                      (A)  the expert's name, address, and telephone   number;                      (B)  the subject matter on which the expert will   testify;                      (C)  the general substance of the expert's mental   impressions and opinions and a brief summary of the basis for those   impressions and opinions, or if the expert is not retained by,   employed by, or otherwise subject to the control of the responding   party, documents reflecting that information; and                      (D)  if the expert is retained by, employed by, or   otherwise subject to the control of the responding party:                            (i)  all documents, tangible things,   reports, models, or data compilations that have been provided to,   reviewed by, or prepared by or for the expert in anticipation of the   expert's testimony; and                            (ii)  the expert's current resume and   biography;                (7)  any discoverable settlement agreement described   by Rule 192.3(g), Texas Rules of Civil Procedure;                (8)  any discoverable witness statement [settlement]   described by Rule 192.3(h), Texas Rules of Civil Procedure;                (9)  in an action alleging physical or mental injury   and damages from the occurrence that is the subject of the action:                      (A)  all medical records and bills that are   reasonably related to the injuries or damages asserted; or                      (B)  an authorization permitting the disclosure   of the information described by Paragraph (A);                (10)  in an action alleging physical or mental injury   and damages from the occurrence that is the subject of the action,   all medical records and bills obtained by the responding party   through an authorization provided by the requesting party; and                (11)  the name, address, and telephone number of any   person who may be designated as a responsible third party.          SECTION 13.10.  (a)  Section 81.113(a), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (a)  Except as provided by Subsection (b), the state bar   shall credit an attorney licensed in this state with meeting the   minimum continuing legal education requirements of the state bar   for a reporting year if during the reporting year the attorney is:                (1)  employed full-time as an attorney by:                      (A) [(1)]  the senate;                      (B) [(2)]  the house of representatives;                      (C) [(3)]  a committee, division, department, or   office of the senate or house;                      (D) [(4)]  the Texas Legislative Council;                      (E) [(5)]  the Legislative Budget Board;                      (F) [(6)]  the Legislative Reference Library;                      (G) [(7)]  the office of the state auditor; or                      (H) [(8)]  the Sunset Advisory Commission; or                (2)  serving as a state official appointed by the   governor and confirmed by the senate.          (b)  Section 81.113, Government Code, as amended by this   article, applies only to the minimum requirements for a continuing   legal education compliance year that ends on or after September 1,   2025. The minimum requirements for continuing legal education for   a compliance year that ends before September 1, 2025, are covered by   the law and rules in effect when the compliance year ended, and that   law and those rules are continued in effect for that purpose.          SECTION 13.11.  Section 552.117, Government Code, is amended   by amending Subsections (a) and (b) and adding Subsection (b-1) to   read as follows:          (a)  Information is excepted from the requirements of   Section 552.021 if it is information that relates to the home   address, home telephone number, emergency contact information, or   social security number of the following person or that reveals   whether the person has family members:                (1)  a current or former official or employee of a   governmental body, except as otherwise provided by Section 552.024;                (2)  a current or honorably retired peace officer as   defined by Article 2A.001, Code of Criminal Procedure, or a current   or honorably retired security officer commissioned under Section   51.212, Education Code, regardless of whether the officer complies   with Section 552.024 or 552.1175, as applicable;                (3)  a current or former employee of the Texas   Department of Criminal Justice or of the predecessor in function of   the department or any division of the department, regardless of   whether the current or former employee complies with Section   552.1175;                (4)  a peace officer as defined by Article 2A.001, Code   of Criminal Procedure, or other law, a reserve law enforcement   officer, a commissioned deputy game warden, or a corrections   officer in a municipal, county, or state penal institution in this   state who was killed in the line of duty, regardless of whether the   deceased complied with Section 552.024 or 552.1175;                (5)  a commissioned security officer as defined by   Section 1702.002, Occupations Code, regardless of whether the   officer complies with Section 552.024 or 552.1175, as applicable;                (6)  an officer or employee of a community supervision   and corrections department established under Chapter 76 who   performs a duty described by Section 76.004(b), regardless of   whether the officer or employee complies with Section 552.024 or   552.1175;                (7)  a current or former employee of the office of the   attorney general who is or was assigned to a division of that office   the duties of which involve law enforcement or are performed under   Chapter 231, Family Code, regardless of whether the current or   former employee complies with Section 552.024 or 552.1175;                (8)  a current or former employee of the Texas Juvenile   Justice Department or of the predecessors in function of the   department, regardless of whether the current or former employee   complies with Section 552.024 or 552.1175;                (9)  a current or former juvenile probation or   supervision officer certified by the Texas Juvenile Justice   Department, or the predecessors in function of the department,   under Title 12, Human Resources Code, regardless of whether the   current or former officer complies with Section 552.024 or   552.1175;                (10)  a current or former employee of a juvenile   justice program or facility, as those terms are defined by Section   261.405, Family Code, regardless of whether the current or former   employee complies with Section 552.024 or 552.1175;                (11)  a current or former member of the United States   Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, or Marine Corps, an auxiliary   service of one of those branches of the armed forces, or the Texas   military forces, as that term is defined by Section 437.001;                (12)  a current or former district attorney, criminal   district attorney, or county or municipal attorney whose   jurisdiction includes any criminal law or child protective services   matters, regardless of whether the current or former attorney   complies with Section 552.024 or 552.1175;                (13)  a current or former employee of a district   attorney, criminal district attorney, or county or municipal   attorney whose jurisdiction includes any criminal law or child   protective services matters, regardless of whether the current or   former employee complies with Section 552.024 or 552.1175;                (14)  a current or former employee of the Texas Civil   Commitment Office or of the predecessor in function of the office or   a division of the office, regardless of whether the current or   former employee complies with Section 552.024 or 552.1175;                (15)  a current or former federal judge or state judge,   as those terms are defined by Section 1.005, Election Code, a   federal bankruptcy judge, a marshal of the United States Marshals   Service, a United States attorney, or a family member of a current   or former federal judge, including a federal bankruptcy judge, a   marshal of the United States Marshals Service, a United States   attorney, or a state judge;                (16)  a current or former child protective services   caseworker, adult protective services caseworker, or investigator   for the Department of Family and Protective Services, regardless of   whether the caseworker or investigator complies with Section   552.024 or 552.1175, or a current or former employee of a department   contractor performing child protective services caseworker, adult   protective services caseworker, or investigator functions for the   contractor on behalf of the department;                (17)  an elected public officer, regardless of whether   the officer complies with Section 552.024 or 552.1175;                (18)  a current or former United States attorney,   assistant United States attorney, federal public defender, deputy   federal public defender, or assistant federal public defender and   the spouse or child of the current or former attorney or public   defender, regardless of whether the person complies with Section   552.024 or 552.1175; [or]                (19)  a firefighter or volunteer firefighter or   emergency medical services personnel as defined by Section 773.003,   Health and Safety Code, regardless of whether the firefighter or   volunteer firefighter or emergency medical services personnel   comply with Section 552.024 or 552.1175, as applicable;                (20)  a current or former county clerk, district clerk,   or county and district clerk, or a current or former employee of the   office of a county clerk, district clerk, or county and district   clerk, regardless of whether the current or former clerk or   employee complies with Section 552.024 or 552.1175;                (21)  a current or former employee whose duties relate   to court administration, including a court clerk, court   coordinator, court administrator, juvenile case manager, law   clerk, or staff attorney, regardless of whether the employee   complies with Section 552.024 or 552.1175;                (22)  a current or former employee of the Office of   Court Administration of the Texas Judicial System and entities   administratively attached to the office, regardless of whether the   employee complies with Section 552.024 or 552.1175; or                (23)  a current or former employee or commissioner of   the State Commission on Judicial Conduct, regardless of whether the   employee or commissioner complies with Section 552.024 or 552.1175.          (b)  Except as provided by Subsection (b-1), all [All]   documents filed with a county clerk and all documents filed with a   district clerk are exempt from this section.          (b-1)  A county clerk or district clerk on request of a   person to whom this section applies shall redact information   described by Subsection (a) that relates to the person posted on an   Internet website by:                (1)  the clerk; or                (2)  an entity with which the county contracts for the   provision or maintenance of the Internet website.          SECTION 13.12.  Section 552.1175, Government Code, is   amended by amending Subsections (a) and (e) and adding Subsection   (e-1) to read as follows:          (a)  This section applies only to:                (1)  current or honorably retired peace officers as   defined by Article 2A.001, Code of Criminal Procedure, or special   investigators as described by Article 2A.002, Code of Criminal   Procedure;                (2)  current or honorably retired county jailers as   defined by Section 1701.001, Occupations Code;                (3)  current or former employees of the Texas   Department of Criminal Justice or of the predecessor in function of   the department or any division of the department;                (4)  commissioned security officers as defined by   Section 1702.002, Occupations Code;                (5)  a current or former district attorney, criminal   district attorney, or county or municipal attorney whose   jurisdiction includes any criminal law or child protective services   matters;                (5-a) a current or former employee of a district   attorney, criminal district attorney, or county or municipal   attorney whose jurisdiction includes any criminal law or child   protective services matters;                (6)  officers and employees of a community supervision   and corrections department established under Chapter 76 who perform   a duty described by Section 76.004(b);                (7)  criminal investigators of the United States as   described by Article 2A.002(a), Code of Criminal Procedure;                (8)  current or honorably retired police officers and   inspectors of the United States Federal Protective Service;                (9)  current and former employees of the office of the   attorney general who are or were assigned to a division of that   office the duties of which involve law enforcement or are performed   under Chapter 231, Family Code;                (10)  current or former juvenile probation and   detention officers certified by the Texas Juvenile Justice   Department, or the predecessors in function of the department,   under Title 12, Human Resources Code;                (11)  current or former employees of a juvenile justice   program or facility, as those terms are defined by Section 261.405,   Family Code;                (12)  current or former employees of the Texas Juvenile   Justice Department or the predecessors in function of the   department;                (13)  federal judges and state judges as defined by   Section 1.005, Election Code;                (14)  current or former employees of the Texas Civil   Commitment Office or of the predecessor in function of the office or   a division of the office;                (15)  a current or former member of the United States   Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, or Marine Corps, an auxiliary   service of one of those branches of the armed forces, or the Texas   military forces, as that term is defined by Section 437.001;                (16)  a current or former child protective services   caseworker, adult protective services caseworker, or investigator   for the Department of Family and Protective Services or a current or   former employee of a department contractor performing child   protective services caseworker, adult protective services   caseworker, or investigator functions for the contractor on behalf   of the department;                (17)  an elected public officer;                (18)  a firefighter or volunteer firefighter or   emergency medical services personnel as defined by Section 773.003,   Health and Safety Code; [and]                (19)  a current or former United States attorney,   assistant United States attorney, federal public defender, deputy   federal public defender, or assistant federal public defender;                (20)  a current or former county clerk, district clerk,   or county and district clerk, or a current or former employee of the   office of a county clerk, district clerk, or county and district   clerk;                (21)  a current or former employee whose duties relate   to court administration, including a court clerk, court   coordinator, court administrator, juvenile case manager, law   clerk, or staff attorney;                (22)  a current or former employee of the Office of   Court Administration of the Texas Judicial System and entities   administratively attached to the office; and                (23)  a current or former employee or commissioner of   the State Commission on Judicial Conduct.          (e)  Except as provided by Subsection (e-1), all [All]   documents filed with a county clerk and all documents filed with a   district clerk are exempt from this section.          (e-1)  A county clerk or district clerk on request of a   person to whom this section applies shall redact information   described by Subsection (b) that relates to the person from any   document the clerk posts on an Internet website.          SECTION 13.13.  Section 42.07(b), Penal Code, is amended by   amending Subdivision (1) and adding Subdivision (1-a) to read as   follows:                (1)  "Court employee" means an employee whose duties   relate to court administration, including a court clerk, court   coordinator, court administrator, juvenile case manager, law   clerk, or staff attorney.  The term does not include a judge.                (1-a)  "Electronic communication" means a transfer of   signs, signals, writing, images, sounds, data, or intelligence of   any nature transmitted in whole or in part by a wire, radio,   electromagnetic, photoelectronic, or photo-optical system.  The   term includes:                      (A)  a communication initiated through the use of   electronic mail, instant message, network call, a cellular or other   type of telephone, a computer, a camera, text message, a social   media platform or application, an Internet website, any other   Internet-based communication tool, or facsimile machine; and                      (B)  a communication made to a pager.          SECTION 13.14.  Section 42.07(c), Penal Code, is amended to   read as follows:          (c)  An offense under this section is a Class B misdemeanor,   except that the offense is:                (1)  a Class A misdemeanor if:                      (A) [(1)]  the actor has previously been   convicted under this section; [or]                      (B) [(2)]  the offense was committed under   Subsection (a)(7) or (8) and:                            (i) [(A)]  the offense was committed against   a child under 18 years of age with the intent that the child:                                  (a) [(i)]  commit suicide; or                                  (b) [(ii)]  engage in conduct causing   serious bodily injury to the child; or                            (ii) [(B)]  the actor has previously   violated a temporary restraining order or injunction issued under   Chapter 129A, Civil Practice and Remedies Code; or                       (C)  the offense was committed against a person   the actor knows is a court employee;                 (2)  a state jail felony if the offense was committed   against a person the actor knows is:                      (A)  a court employee and the actor has previously   been convicted under this section; or                       (B)  a judge; and                 (3)  a felony of the third degree if the offense was   committed against a person the actor knows is a judge and the actor   has previously been convicted under this section.          SECTION 13.15.  Section 21.049, Property Code, is amended to   read as follows:          Sec. 21.049.  NOTICE OF DECISION OF SPECIAL COMMISSIONERS.   The judge of a court hearing a proceeding under this chapter shall   inform the clerk of the court as to a decision by the special   commissioners on the day the decision is filed or on the next   working day after the day the decision is filed. Not later than the   next working day after the day the decision is filed, the clerk   shall send notice of the decision by a delivery method described   under Rule 21a, Texas Rules of Civil Procedure [certified or   registered United States mail, return receipt requested], to the   parties in the proceeding, or to their attorneys of record, at their   addresses of record.          SECTION 13.16.  Section 25.025(a), Tax Code, as amended by   Chapters 76 (S.B. 617), 152 (S.B. 870), 430 (H.B. 1911), 765 (H.B.   4504), and 937 (S.B. 1525), Acts of the 88th Legislature, Regular   Session, 2023, is reenacted and further amended to read as follows:          (a)  This section applies only to:                (1)  a current or former peace officer as defined by   Article 2A.001, Code of Criminal Procedure, and the spouse or   surviving spouse of the peace officer;                (2)  the adult child of a current peace officer as   defined by Article 2A.001, Code of Criminal Procedure;                (3)  a current or honorably retired county jailer as   defined by Section 1701.001, Occupations Code;                (4)  an employee of the Texas Department of Criminal   Justice;                (5)  a commissioned security officer as defined by   Section 1702.002, Occupations Code;                (6)  an individual who shows that the individual, the   individual's child, or another person in the individual's household   is a victim of family violence as defined by Section 71.004, Family   Code, by providing:                      (A)  a copy of a protective order issued under   Chapter 85, Family Code, or a magistrate's order for emergency   protection issued under Article 17.292, Code of Criminal Procedure;   or                      (B)  other independent documentary evidence   necessary to show that the individual, the individual's child, or   another person in the individual's household is a victim of family   violence;                (7)  an individual who shows that the individual, the   individual's child, or another person in the individual's household   is a victim of sexual assault or abuse, stalking, or trafficking of   persons by providing:                      (A)  a copy of a protective order issued under   Subchapter A or B, Chapter 7B, Code of Criminal Procedure, or a   magistrate's order for emergency protection issued under Article   17.292, Code of Criminal Procedure; or                      (B)  other independent documentary evidence   necessary to show that the individual, the individual's child, or   another person in the individual's household is a victim of sexual   assault or abuse, stalking, or trafficking of persons;                (8)  a participant in the address confidentiality   program administered by the attorney general under Subchapter B,   Chapter 58, Code of Criminal Procedure, who provides proof of   certification under Article 58.059, Code of Criminal Procedure;                (9)  a federal judge, a federal bankruptcy judge, a   marshal of the United States Marshals Service, a state judge, or a   family member of a federal judge, a federal bankruptcy judge, a   marshal of the United States Marshals Service, or a state judge;                (10)  a current or former district attorney, criminal   district attorney, or county or municipal attorney whose   jurisdiction includes any criminal law or child protective services   matters;                (11)  a current or former employee of a district   attorney, criminal district attorney, or county or municipal   attorney whose jurisdiction includes any criminal law or child   protective services matters;                (12)  an officer or employee of a community supervision   and corrections department established under Chapter 76,   Government Code, who performs a duty described by Section 76.004(b)   of that code;                (13)  a criminal investigator of the United States as   described by Article 2A.002(a), Code of Criminal Procedure;                (14)  a current or honorably retired police officer or   inspector of the United States Federal Protective Service;                (15)  a current or former United States attorney,   assistant United States attorney, federal public defender, deputy   federal public defender, or assistant federal public defender and   the spouse and child of the attorney or public defender;                (16)  a current or former employee of the office of the   attorney general who is or was assigned to a division of that office   the duties of which involve law enforcement or are performed under   Chapter 231, Family Code;                (17)  a medical examiner or person who performs   forensic analysis or testing who is employed by this state or one or   more political subdivisions of this state;                (18)  a current or former member of the United States   armed forces who has served in an area that the president of the   United States by executive order designates for purposes of 26   U.S.C. Section 112 as an area in which armed forces of the United   States are or have engaged in combat;                (19)  a current or former employee of the Texas   Juvenile Justice Department or of the predecessors in function of   the department;                (20)  a current or former juvenile probation or   supervision officer certified by the Texas Juvenile Justice   Department, or the predecessors in function of the department,   under Title 12, Human Resources Code;                (21)  a current or former employee of a juvenile   justice program or facility, as those terms are defined by Section   261.405, Family Code;                (22)  a current or former employee of the Texas Civil   Commitment Office or the predecessor in function of the office or a   division of the office;                (23)  a current or former employee of a federal judge or   state judge;                (24)  a current or former child protective services   caseworker, adult protective services caseworker, or investigator   for the Department of Family and Protective Services or a current or   former employee of a department contractor performing child   protective services caseworker, adult protective services   caseworker, or investigator functions for the contractor on behalf   of the department;                (25)  an elected public officer;                (26)  a firefighter or volunteer firefighter or   emergency medical services personnel as defined by Section 773.003,   Health and Safety Code;                (27)  a customs and border protection officer or border   patrol agent of United States Customs and Border Protection or the   spouse, surviving spouse, or adult child of a customs and border   protection officer or border patrol agent;                (28)  [(27)  a current or former attorney for the   Department of Family and Protective Services                [(27)]  a current or former employee or contract staff   member of a university health care provider at a corrections   facility operated by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice or   the Texas Juvenile Justice Department;                (29)  [and                [(28)]  a current or former attorney for the Department   of Family and Protective Services;                (30)  a current or former county clerk, district clerk,   or county and district clerk, or a current or former employee of the   office of a county clerk, district clerk, or county and district   clerk;                (31)  a current or former employee whose duties relate   to court administration, including a court clerk, court   coordinator, court administrator, juvenile case manager, law   clerk, or staff attorney;                (32)  a current or former employee of the Office of   Court Administration of the Texas Judicial System and entities   administratively attached to the office; and                (33)  a current or former employee or commissioner of   the State Commission on Judicial Conduct.          SECTION 13.17.  Section 34.03(a), Tax Code, is amended to   read as follows:          (a)  The clerk of the court shall:                (1)  if the amount of excess proceeds is more than $25,   before the 31st day after the date the excess proceeds are received   by the clerk, send by a delivery method described by Rule 21a, Texas   Rules of Civil Procedure [certified mail, return receipt   requested], a written notice to the former owner of the property, at   the former owner's last known address according to the records of   the court or any other source reasonably available to the court,   that:                      (A)  states the amount of the excess proceeds;                      (B)  informs the former owner of that owner's   rights to claim the excess proceeds under Section 34.04; and                      (C)  includes a copy or the complete text of this   section and Section 34.04;                (2)  regardless of the amount, keep the excess proceeds   paid into court as provided by Section 34.02(d) for a period of two   years after the date of the sale unless otherwise ordered by the   court; and                (3)  regardless of the amount, send to the attorney   general notice of the deposit and amount of excess proceeds if the   attorney general or a state agency represented by the attorney   general is named as an in rem defendant in the underlying suit for   seizure of the property or foreclosure of a tax lien on the   property.          SECTION 13.18.  Section 521.121, Transportation Code, is   amended by amending Subsections (a) and (c) and adding Subsection   (c-1) to read as follows:          (a)  The driver's license must include:                (1)  a distinguishing number assigned by the department   to the license holder;                (2)  a photograph of the entire face of the holder;                (3)  the full name and date of birth of the holder;                (4)  a brief description of the holder; and                (5)  the license holder's residence address or, for a   license holder using the procedure under Subsection (c):                      (A)  [,] the street address of the courthouse in   which the license holder or license holder's spouse or parent:                            (i)  serves as a federal judge, including a   federal bankruptcy judge, a marshal of the United States Marshals   Service, a United States attorney, or a state judge; or                            (ii)  performs duties related to court   administration, including a court clerk, court coordinator, court   administrator, juvenile case manager, law clerk, or staff attorney;   or                      (B)  the office address of the office in which the   license holder or the license holder's spouse or parent performs   duties as an employee of the office of a county clerk, district   clerk, or county and district clerk, or of the Office of Court   Administration of the Texas Judicial System and entities   administratively attached to the office, or as an employee or   commissioner of the State Commission on Judicial Conduct.          (c)  The department shall establish a procedure, on a license   holder's qualification for or appointment to office as a federal or   state judge as defined by Section 1.005, Election Code, or as a   county clerk, district clerk, or county and district clerk, or as a   federal bankruptcy judge, a marshal of the United States Marshals   Service, [or] a United States attorney, or for a license holder   whose duties relate to court administration, including a court   clerk, court coordinator, court administrator, juvenile case   manager, law clerk, or staff attorney, or as an employee of the   office of a county clerk, district clerk, or county and district   clerk, or of the Office of Court Administration of the Texas   Judicial System and entities administratively attached to the   office, or as an employee or commissioner of the State Commission on   Judicial Conduct, to omit the residence address of the judge, [or]   official, employee, or commissioner and any family member of the   judge, [or] official, employee, or commissioner on the license   holder's license and to print [include], in lieu of that address,   the street address of the courthouse or office building in which the   license holder or license holder's spouse or parent serves as a   federal or state judge, [or] official, employee, or commissioner.          (c-1)  The residence address of a license holder whose   residence address is omitted using the procedure under Subsection   (c) is confidential and is available only for the official use of   the department or a law enforcement agency.          SECTION 13.19.  Section 521.243(a), Transportation Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (a)  Unless the petition is dismissed under Section   521.2421(f), the clerk of the court shall send electronically or by   a delivery method described by Rule 21a, Texas Rules of Civil   Procedure, [by certified mail] to the attorney representing the   state a copy of the petition and notice of the hearing if the   petitioner's license was suspended, revoked, or canceled following   a conviction for:                (1)  an offense under Section 19.05 or Sections   49.04-49.08, Penal Code; or                (2)  an offense to which Section 521.342 applies.          SECTION 13.20.  Article 43.09(a), Code of Criminal   Procedure, as amended by this article, applies to a defendant who is   confined or performs labor to discharge fines or costs on or after   September 1, 2025, regardless of whether the offense for which the   fines or costs were imposed occurred before, on, or after September   1, 2025.          SECTION 13.21.  The changes in law made by this article to   Articles 43.09(k), 45A.254(e), 45A.459(i), and 45A.460(i), Code of   Criminal Procedure, apply to a defendant who performs community   service to discharge fines or costs on or after September 1, 2025,   regardless of whether the offense for which the fines or costs were   imposed occurred before, on, or after September 1, 2025.          SECTION 13.22.  Article 45A.251(e), Code of Criminal   Procedure, as amended by this article, applies to a defendant who is   sentenced for an offense on or after September 1, 2025, regardless   of whether the offense was committed before, on, or after that date.          SECTION 13.23.  Section 301.052(a), Family Code, as amended   by this article, applies to an action that is pending in a trial   court on September 1, 2025, or that is filed on or after that date.          SECTION 13.24.  Section 42.07, Penal Code, as amended by   this article, applies only to an offense committed on or after   September 1, 2025. An offense committed before that date is   governed by the law in effect on the date the offense was committed,   and the former law is continued in effect for that purpose. For   purposes of this section, an offense was committed before September   1, 2025, if any element of the offense occurred before that date.          SECTION 13.25.  Not later than November 1, 2026, the   Department of Public Safety shall:                (1)  review the department's processes for   implementation of and compliance with Section 521.121,   Transportation Code, as amended by this Act; and                (2)  submit to the governor, the lieutenant governor,   the speaker of the house of representatives, each member of the   legislature, and the Texas Judicial Council a written report   containing the results of the review, a description of the methods   used to prepare the review, and any recommendations for legislative   or other action.   ARTICLE 14.  MANDATORY EXPUNCTION FOR CERTAIN PERSONS; RETENTION OF   CERTAIN RECORDS          SECTION 14.01.  Article 55A.203, Code of Criminal Procedure,   is amended by amending Subsections (a) and (b) and adding   Subsections (b-1) and (d) to read as follows:          (a)  A trial court that is a district court or a district   court in the county in which the trial court is located shall [may,   with the consent of the attorney representing the state,] enter an   expunction order for a person entitled to expunction under Article   55A.053(a)(2)(A) not later than the 30th day after the date the   court, as applicable:                (1)  dismisses the case following the person's   successful completion of a veterans treatment court program created   under Chapter 124, Government Code, or former law; or                (2)  receives the information regarding the dismissal.          (b)  A trial court that is a district court or a district   court in the county in which the trial court is located shall [may,   with the consent of the attorney representing the state,] enter an   expunction order for a person entitled to expunction under Article   55A.053(a)(2)(B) not later than the 30th day after the date the   court, as applicable:                (1)  dismisses the case following the person's   successful completion of a mental health court program created   under Chapter 125, Government Code, or former law; or                (2)  receives the information regarding the dismissal.          (b-1)  A trial court that is a district court or a district   court in the county in which the trial court is located shall enter   an expunction order for a person entitled to expunction under   Article 55A.053(a)(2)(C) not later than the 30th day after the date   the court, as applicable:                 (1)  dismisses the case following the person's   successful completion of a pretrial intervention program   authorized under Section 76.011, Government Code, other than a   program described by Subsection (a)(1) or (b)(1) of this section;   or                (2)  receives the information regarding the dismissal.          (d)  The person for whom a court is required to enter an   expunction order under Subsection (a), (b), or (b-1), as   applicable, shall provide to the attorney representing the state   all of the information required in a petition for expunction under   Article 55A.253 and any affidavit required under Article 55A.053(b)   or (c). The attorney representing the state shall prepare an   expunction order under this article for the court's signature.          SECTION 14.02.  Subchapter E, Chapter 55A, Code of Criminal   Procedure, is amended by adding Article 55A.2035 to read as   follows:          Art. 55A.2035.  ATTORNEY REPRESENTING STATE CERTIFIES   RECORDS AND FILES NOT NEEDED. (a) A trial court that is a district   court or a district court in the county in which the trial court is   located shall enter an expunction order for a person entitled to   expunction under Article 55A.052(a)(4) not later than the 30th day   after the date the court receives the certification described by   that subdivision.          (b)  The attorney representing the state who certified under   Article 55A.052(a)(4) that the applicable arrest records and files   are not needed for use in any criminal investigation or prosecution   shall prepare an expunction order under this article for the   court's signature.  The person for whom a court is required to enter   an expunction order under Subsection (a) shall provide to the   attorney representing the state all of the information required in   a petition for expunction under Article 55A.253.          (c)  Notwithstanding any other law, a court that enters an   expunction order under this article may not charge any fee or assess   any cost for the expunction.          SECTION 14.03.  Subchapter H, Chapter 55A, Code of Criminal   Procedure, is amended by adding Article 55A.358 to read as follows:          Art. 55A.358.  RETENTION OF RECORDS FOR DEVELOPMENT AND   OPERATION OF PRETRIAL INTERVENTION PROGRAMS. Notwithstanding   Articles 55A.353, 55A.354, 55A.355, and 55A.356, a community   supervision and corrections department established under Chapter   76, Government Code, or an office of an attorney representing the   state, in possession of records and files subject to an expunction   order based on an entitlement under Article 55A.053(a)(2)(A), (B),   or (C) may retain and use those records and files only for the   purpose of developing and operating pretrial intervention programs   in a judicial district served by the department or office.   ARTICLE 15. CONFLICT; EFFECTIVE DATE          SECTION 15.01.  To the extent of any conflict, this Act   prevails over another Act of the 89th Legislature, Regular Session,   2025, relating to nonsubstantive additions to and corrections in   enacted codes.          SECTION 15.02.  Except as otherwise provided by a provision   of this Act, this Act takes effect September 1, 2025.               ______________________________ ______________________________      President of the Senate Speaker of the House                 I hereby certify that S.B. No. 2878 passed the Senate on   May 12, 2025, by the following vote:  Yeas 30, Nays 0;   May 28, 2025, Senate refused to concur in House amendments and   requested appointment of Conference Committee; May 29, 2025, House   granted request of the Senate; May 31, 2025, Senate adopted   Conference Committee Report by the following vote:  Yeas 31,   Nays 0.       ______________________________   Secretary of the Senate                I hereby certify that S.B. No. 2878 passed the House, with   amendments, on May 27, 2025, by the following vote:  Yeas 132,   Nays 2, two present not voting; May 29, 2025, House granted request   of the Senate for appointment of Conference Committee;   June 1, 2025, House adopted Conference Committee Report by the   following vote:  Yeas 136, Nays 2, one present not voting.       ______________________________   Chief Clerk of the House            Approved:     ______________________________               Date       ______________________________              Governor