89S10857 AMF-D     By: Leach H.B. No. 16       A BILL TO BE ENTITLED   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, record retention, youth diversion,   court-ordered mental health services, the powers of the Texas   Supreme Court, and jurors; 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.  Effective January 1, 2026, Section   24.60043(d), Government Code, 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   the effective date of this Act.          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 the effective   date of this Act.          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 the effective   date of this Act.          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 the effective   date of this Act.          SECTION 1.16.  (a)  Effective January 1, 2026, 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 January 1, 2026.          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 the effective date of this Act.          SECTION 2.10.  (a)  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 the effective date of this section:                (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.          (c)  This section takes effect September 1, 2025, 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 the effect of   this section on that date, this section takes effect on the 91st day   after the last day of the legislative session.          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 section.  An   action filed in a county court at law in Hidalgo County before the   effective date of this section 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.          (c)  This section takes effect September 1, 2025, 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 the effect of   this section on that date, this section takes effect on the 91st day   after the last day of the legislative session.          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 the   effective date of this Act. 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 the   effective date of this Act.  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 the   effective date of this Act.          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 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 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 the effective date of this Act.   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 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.   ARTICLE 3. MUNICIPAL COURT PROVISIONS          SECTION 3.01.  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 3.02.  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 3.03.  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 3.04.  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 3.05.  As soon as practicable after the effective   date of this Act, 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 4. VISITING JUDGES          SECTION 4.01.  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 4.02.  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 4.03.  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 4.04.  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 in   accordance with Section 659.012(b) to a justice of that court of   appeals with comparable years of service as the retired justice or   judge on the retired justice's or judge's last day of service in   judicial office [as set by the General Appropriations Act in   accordance with Section 659.012(a)].          SECTION 4.05.  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 4.06.  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 4.07.  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 in   accordance with Section 659.012(b) to a district judge with   comparable years of service as the retired judge or justice on the   retired judge's or justice's last day of service in judicial office   [as set by the General Appropriations Act in accordance with   Section 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 in accordance with Section 659.012(b) to a district judge with   comparable years of service as the retired judge or justice on the   retired judge's or justice's last day of service in judicial office    [as set by the General Appropriations Act in accordance with   Section 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 4.08.  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 on the effective date of this Act.   ARTICLE 5.  MASTERS, MAGISTRATES, REFEREES, AND ASSOCIATE JUDGES          SECTION 5.01.  Article 2A.151, Code of Criminal Procedure,   as amended by S.B. 251, Acts of the 89th Legislature, Regular   Session, 2025, and by H.B. 1620, Acts of the 89th Legislature,   Regular Session, 2025, as effective September 1, 2025, is reenacted   and 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)  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)  by the El Paso Council of Judges;                      (F)  by the Fort Bend County Commissioners Court;                      (G)  by the Collin County Commissioners Court; or                      (H)  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 5.02.  Section 54.1601(b), Government Code, as added   by S.B. 251, Acts of the 89th Legislature, Regular Session, 2025,   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.  Notwithstanding any other provision of   this chapter, to be eligible for appointment under this subchapter,   a person must [The qualifications must require the magistrate to:                [(1)  have served as a justice of the peace or municipal   court judge; or                [(2)]  have been licensed to practice law in this state   and in good standing with the State Bar of Texas for at least two   years.          SECTION 5.03.  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.   ARTICLE 6.  JUVENILE BOARDS          SECTION 6.01.  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 6.02.  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 6.03.  Section 152.0971(a), Human Resources Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (a)  The juvenile board of Grayson County is composed of the   county judge and the district judges in Grayson County. The county   judge may add a judge of a county court at law to the board.          SECTION 6.04.  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 6.05.  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 7.  COURT ADMINISTRATION          SECTION 7.01.  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 7.02.  Subchapter A, Chapter 102, Code of Criminal   Procedure, is amended by adding Article 102.0061 to read as   follows:          Art. 102.0061.  FEES IN EXPUNCTION PROCEEDINGS. (a) In   addition to any other fees required by other law and except as   provided by Subsections (c) and (d), a petitioner seeking   expunction of a criminal record in a district court shall pay the   fee charged for filing an ex parte petition in a civil action in   district court.          (b)  In addition to any other fees required by other law and   except as provided by Subsection (c), a petitioner seeking   expunction of a criminal record in a justice court or a municipal   court of record under Chapter 55A shall pay a fee of $100 for filing   an ex parte petition for expunction to defray the cost of notifying   state agencies of orders of expunction under that chapter.          (c)  The fee under Subsection (a) or the fee under Subsection   (b), as applicable, shall be waived if:                (1)  the petitioner seeks expunction of a criminal   record that relates to an arrest for an offense of which the person   was acquitted, other than an acquittal for an offense described by   Article 55A.151; and                (2)  the petition for expunction is filed not later   than the 30th day after the date of the acquittal.          (d)  The fee under Subsection (a) shall be waived if the   petitioner is entitled to expunction:                (1)  under Article 55A.053(a)(2)(A) after successful   completion of a veterans treatment court program created under   Chapter 124, Government Code, or former law; or                (2)  under Article 55A.053(a)(2)(B) after successful   completion of a mental health court program created under Chapter   125, Government Code, or former law.          (e)  A court that grants a petition for expunction of a   criminal record may order the fee, or portion of the fee, required   to be paid under Subsection (a) to be returned to the petitioner.          SECTION 7.03.  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.          SECTION 7.04.  (a)  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.          (b)  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.          (c)  As soon as practicable after the effective date of this   Act, the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals shall adopt the rules   necessary to implement Section 22.110, Government Code, as amended   by this article.          (d)  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 the effective   date of this Act.          SECTION 7.05.  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 7.06.  Section 25A.003(d), Government Code, as   amended by H.B. 40, Acts of the 89th Legislature, Regular Session,   2025, and effective September 1, 2025, is amended to read as   follows:          (d)  The Second Business Court Division is composed of the   counties composing the Second Administrative Judicial Region under   Section 74.042(c), excluding Montgomery County and Bastrop County,   subject to funding through legislative appropriations.          SECTION 7.07.  Section 25A.003(e), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (e)  The Third Business Court Division is composed of the   counties composing the Third Administrative Judicial Region under   Section 74.042(d) and Bastrop County.          SECTION 7.08.  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 7.09.  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 7.10.  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 7.11.  (a)  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.          (b)  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 7.12.  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 7.13.  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 7.14.  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 7.15.  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 7.16.  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 7.17.  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 7.18.  Section 74.092, Government Code, as amended   by S.B. 664, Acts of the 89th Legislature, Regular Session, 2025,   and effective September 1, 2025, 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;                (8-a)  supervise the performance of each master,   magistrate, referee, associate judge, or hearing officer who was   appointed under Chapter 54 to serve a court for which the judge   serves as a local administrative judge and whose duties include   duties under Article 15.17, Code of Criminal Procedure;                (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 7.19.  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 7.20.  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 7.21.  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 7.22.  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 7.23.  Section 118.011(a), Local Government Code, as   amended by S.B. 1547, Acts of the 89th Legislature, Regular   Session, 2025, 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, except for real property records:                            (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 7.24.  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 7.25.  Section 74.051(b), Government Code, is   repealed.          SECTION 7.26.  (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.   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. CIVIL, CRIMINAL, AND APPELLATE COURT PROCEDURES          SECTION 9.01.  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 9.02.  Section 30.015(a), Civil Practice and   Remedies Code, as amended by H.B. 40, Acts of the 89th Legislature,   Regular Session, 2025, and effective September 1, 2025, is amended   to read as follows:          (a)  In a civil action filed in a district court, a county   court, a statutory county court, a statutory probate court, or the   business 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.          SECTION 9.03.  Section 30.015(b), Civil Practice and   Remedies Code, is amended to read as follows:          (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 9.04.  (a)  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.          (b)  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 the effective   date of this Act, regardless of whether the offense for which the   fines or costs were imposed occurred before, on, or after that date.          SECTION 9.05.  (a)  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.          (b)  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 the effective date of this Act, regardless of   whether the offense was committed before, on, or after that date.          SECTION 9.06.  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 9.07.  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 9.08.  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 9.09.  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 9.10.  (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 the effective date of this Act.   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 9.11.  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 9.12.  (a)  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.          (b)  Section 22.220(e), Government Code, as added by this   article, applies only to a notice of appeal filed on or after the   effective date of this Act. 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 9.13.  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 9.14.  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 9.15.  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 9.16.  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 9.17.  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 the effective date   of this Act, regardless of whether the offense for which the fines   or costs were imposed occurred before, on, or after that date.          SECTION 9.18.  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 the effective date of this Act,   or that is filed on or after that date.   ARTICLE 10.  YOUTH DIVERSION          SECTION 10.01.  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 10.02.  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 10.03.  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 10.04.  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 10.05.  Section 53.01(b-1), Family Code, as amended   by this article, applies only to conduct that occurs on or after the   effective date of this Act.  Conduct that occurs before that date 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 the effective   date of this Act if any element of the conduct occurred before that   date.   ARTICLE 11.  COURT-ORDERED MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES          SECTION 11.01.  Sections 574.011(a) and (b), Health and   Safety Code, as amended by S.B. 1164, Acts of the 89th Legislature,   Regular Session, 2025, and effective September 1, 2025, are amended   to read as follows:          (a)  A certificate of medical examination for mental illness   must be sworn to, dated, and signed by the examining   physician.  The certificate must include:                (1)  the name and address of the examining physician;                (2)  the name and address of the person examined;                (3)  the date and place of the examination;                (4)  a brief diagnosis of the examined person's   physical and mental condition;                (5)  the period, if any, during which the examined   person has been under the care of the examining physician;                (6)  an accurate description of the mental health   treatment, if any, given by or administered under the direction of   the examining physician; and                (7)  the examining physician's opinion that:                      (A)  the examined person is a person with mental   illness; and                      (B)  as a result of that illness the examined   person is[:                            [(i)]  likely to cause serious harm to the   person or to others or is:                            (i)  [;                            [(ii)]  suffering severe and abnormal   mental, emotional, or physical distress;                            (ii) [(iii)]  experiencing substantial   mental or physical deterioration of the proposed patient's ability   to function independently, which is exhibited by the proposed   patient's inability, except for reasons of indigence, to provide   for the proposed patient's basic needs, including food, clothing,   health, or safety; and                            (iii) [(iv)]  not able to make a rational   and informed decision as to whether to submit to treatment[; or                            [(v)  evidencing an inability to recognize   symptoms or appreciate the risks and benefits of treatment; and                      [(B)  in the absence of inpatient mental health   treatment, the examined person is likely to suffer serious risk of   harm or to inflict serious harm on another person].          (b)  The examining physician must specify in the certificate   which criterion listed in Subsection (a)(7)(B) [(a)(7)] forms the   basis for the physician's opinion.          SECTION 11.02.  Sections 574.034(a) and (d), Health and   Safety Code, as amended by S.B. 1164, Acts of the 89th Legislature,   Regular Session, 2025, and effective September 1, 2025, are amended   to read as follows:          (a)  The judge may order a proposed patient to receive   court-ordered temporary inpatient mental health services only if   the judge or jury finds, from clear and convincing evidence, that:                (1)  the proposed patient is a person with mental   illness; and                (2)  as a result of that mental illness the proposed   patient:                      (A)  is likely to cause serious harm to the   proposed patient;                      (B)  is likely to cause serious harm to others; or                      (C)  is:                            (i)  suffering severe and abnormal mental,   emotional, or physical distress;                            (ii)  experiencing substantial mental or   physical deterioration of the proposed patient's ability to   function independently, which is exhibited by the proposed   patient's inability, except for reasons of indigence, to provide   for the proposed patient's basic needs, including food, clothing,   health, or safety; and                            (iii)  unable to make a rational and   informed decision as to whether or not to submit to treatment[; or                            [(iv)  evidencing an inability to recognize   symptoms or to appreciate the risks and benefits of treatment; and                      [(D)  in the absence of court-ordered temporary   inpatient mental health services, is likely to suffer serious risk   of harm or to inflict serious harm on another person].          (d)  To be clear and convincing under Subsection (a), the   evidence must include expert testimony and, unless waived, evidence   of a recent overt act or a continuing pattern of behavior that tends   to confirm:                (1)  the likelihood of serious harm to the proposed   patient or others; or                (2)  [and] the proposed patient's distress and the   deterioration of the proposed patient's ability to function[; or                [(2)  the proposed patient's inability to recognize   symptoms or appreciate the risks and benefits of treatment].          SECTION 11.03.  Sections 574.035(a) and (e), Health and   Safety Code, as amended by S.B. 1164, Acts of the 89th Legislature,   Regular Session, 2025, and effective September 1, 2025, are amended   to read as follows:          (a)  The judge may order a proposed patient to receive   court-ordered extended inpatient mental health services only if the   jury, or the judge if the right to a jury is waived, finds, from   clear and convincing evidence, that:                (1)  the proposed patient is a person with mental   illness;                (2)  as a result of that mental illness the proposed   patient:                      (A)  is likely to cause serious harm to the   proposed patient;                      (B)  is likely to cause serious harm to others; or                      (C)  is:                            (i)  suffering severe and abnormal mental,   emotional, or physical distress;                            (ii)  experiencing substantial mental or   physical deterioration of the proposed patient's ability to   function independently, which is exhibited by the proposed   patient's inability, except for reasons of indigence, to provide   for the proposed patient's basic needs, including food, clothing,   health, or safety; and                            (iii)  unable to make a rational and   informed decision as to whether or not to submit to treatment; [or                            [(iv)  evidencing an inability to recognize   symptoms or appreciate the risks and benefits of treatment; and                      [(D)  in the absence of court-ordered extended   inpatient mental health services, is likely to suffer serious risk   of harm or to inflict serious harm on another person;]                (3)  the proposed patient's condition is expected to   continue for more than 90 days; and                (4)  the proposed patient has received court-ordered   inpatient mental health services under this subtitle or under   Chapter 46B, Code of Criminal Procedure, for at least 60   consecutive days during the preceding 12 months.          (e)  To be clear and convincing under Subsection (a), the   evidence must include expert testimony and evidence of a recent   overt act or a continuing pattern of behavior that tends to confirm:                (1)  the likelihood of serious harm to the proposed   patient or others; or                (2)  [and] the proposed patient's distress and the   deterioration of the proposed patient's ability to function[; or                [(2)  the proposed patient's inability to recognize   symptoms or appreciate the risks and benefits of treatment].          SECTION 11.04.  Chapter 574, Health and Safety Code, as   amended by this article, applies only to an application or   proceeding for court-ordered mental health services submitted or   that occurs on or after the effective date of this Act, regardless   of when an offense with which the defendant is charged was   committed.   ARTICLE 12. POWERS OF THE SUPREME COURT          SECTION 12.01.  (a) Section 22.002(a), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (a)  The supreme court or a justice of the supreme court may   issue writs of procedendo and certiorari and all writs of quo   warranto and mandamus agreeable to the principles of law regulating   those writs, [against a statutory county court judge, a statutory   probate court judge, a district judge, a court of appeals or a   justice of a court of appeals, or any officer of state government]   except the supreme court or justice may not issue a writ against the   governor[, the court of criminal appeals, or a judge of the court of   criminal appeals].          (b)  The changes in law made by this article to Section   22.002(a), Government Code, apply only to an application for a writ   of procedendo, certiorari, quo warranto, or mandamus filed in the   Texas Supreme Court on or after the effective date of this Act.  An   application for a writ of procedendo, certiorari, quo warranto, or   mandamus filed before the effective date of this Act is governed by   the law in effect on the date the application was filed, and the   former law is continued in effect for that purpose.          SECTION 12.02.  Section 22.004, Government Code, is amended   by amending Subsection (c) and adding Subsections (c-1) and (c-2)   to read as follows:          (c)  To ensure [So that] the supreme court has full   rulemaking power in civil actions, [a rule adopted by the supreme   court repeals] all [conflicting] laws and parts of laws governing   practice and procedure in civil actions enacted before May 15,   1939, are repealed, subject to Subsection (c-1)[, but substantive   law is not repealed]. This subsection does not repeal a substantive   law.          (c-1)  A law or part of a law described by Subsection (c) is   not superseded until the supreme court adopts a rule that governs   the subject matter of the law or part of a law.          (c-2)  At the time the supreme court files a rule, the court   shall file with the secretary of state a list of each article or   section of general law or each part of an article or section of   general law that is superseded under Subsection (c-1) [is repealed   or modified in any way]. The list has the same weight and effect as   a decision of the court.          SECTION 12.03.  Section 30.0035, Civil Practice and Remedies   Code, is amended to read as follows:          Sec. 30.0035.  PERSONAL SERVICE OF PROCESS DURING   LEGISLATIVE PROCEEDING PROHIBITED. A person may not serve citation   or other civil process in person on a member, officer, or employee   of the senate or house of representatives during any legislative   proceeding. A court shall quash any service made in violation of   this section. The supreme court shall revoke the certification of a   process server who violates this section. [This section is not   subject to Section 22.004(c), Government Code.]          SECTION 12.04.  Section 34.041(c), Civil Practice and   Remedies Code, is amended to read as follows:          (c)  A sale of real property under this subchapter must take   place between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. on the first Tuesday of a month or,   if the first Tuesday of a month occurs on January 1 or July 4,   between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. on the first Wednesday of the month.     [Notwithstanding Section 22.004, Government Code, the supreme   court may not amend or adopt rules in conflict with this   subsection.]          SECTION 12.05.  Section 1162.007(c), Estates Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (c)  An attorney does not violate the attorney-client   privilege solely by complying with a court order to release an   instrument subject to this section and Sections 1162.005 and   1162.006.  [Notwithstanding Section 22.004, Government Code, the   supreme court may not amend or adopt rules in conflict with this   subsection.]          SECTION 12.06.  Section 52.047(g), Government Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (g)  Notwithstanding the Texas Rules of Appellate Procedure,   an official court reporter who is required to prepare a transcript   in a criminal case without charging a fee is not entitled to payment   for the transcript from the state or county if the county paid a   substitute court reporter to perform the official court reporter's   regular duties while the transcript was being prepared. To the   extent that this subsection conflicts with the Texas Rules of   Appellate Procedure, this subsection controls.  [Notwithstanding   Sections 22.004 and 22.108(b), the supreme court or the court of   criminal appeals may not amend or adopt rules in conflict with this   subsection.]          SECTION 12.07.  Section 2273.004(c), Government Code, as   added by S.B. 33, Acts of the 89th Legislature, Regular Session,   2025, and effective September 1, 2025, is amended to read as   follows:          (c)  Notwithstanding any other law:                (1)  a court may not award costs or attorney's fees   under Rule 91a, Texas Rules of Civil Procedure, [or under another   rule the supreme court adopts under Section 22.004(g)] to any   defendant against whom an action is brought under this section; and                (2)  Chapters 27 and 110, Civil Practice and Remedies   Code, do not apply to an action brought under this section.          SECTION 12.08.  Section 171.208(i), Health and Safety Code,   is amended to read as follows:          (i)  Notwithstanding any other law, a court may not award   costs or attorney's fees under the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure   [or any other rule adopted by the supreme court under Section   22.004, Government Code,] to a defendant in an action brought under   this section.          SECTION 12.09.  Section 455.351(h), Occupations Code, is   amended to read as follows:          (h)  Notwithstanding any other law or rule [Section 22.004,   Government Code]:                (1)  a person may not continue the enjoined activity   pending appeal or trial on the merits of an injunctive order entered   in a suit brought under this subchapter;                (2)  not later than the 90th day after the date of the   injunctive order, the appropriate court of appeals shall hear and   decide an appeal taken by a party enjoined under this subchapter;   and                (3)  if an appeal is not taken by a party temporarily   enjoined under this subchapter [article], the parties are entitled   to a full trial on the merits not later than the 90th day after the   date of the temporary injunctive order.          SECTION 12.10.  Effective January 1, 2026, Section   24.0043(a), Property Code, as added by S.B. 38, Acts of the 89th   Legislature, Regular Session, 2025, and effective January 1, 2026,   is amended to read as follows:          (a)  Except as provided by Subsection (b) but   notwithstanding any other law, [including Section 22.004,   Government Code,] only the legislature may modify or suspend   procedures prescribed by this chapter.          SECTION 12.11.  The following provisions of the Civil   Practice and Remedies Code are repealed:                (1)  Section 10.006;                (2)  Section 14.013(c);                (3)  Section 14.014;                (4)  Section 14A.061(c);                (5)  Section 14A.062;                (6)  Section 15.066;                (7)  Section 30.010(d);                (8)  Section 30.013(f);                (9)  Section 30.018(b);                (10)  Section 51.017(b);                (11)  Section 52.005(b);                (12)  Section 64.091(k);                (13)  Section 64.093(k);                (14)  Section 65.045(b);                (15)  Section 98.007(e);                (16)  Section 98B.008(e), as added by S.B. 441, Acts of   the 89th Legislature, Regular Session, 2025, and effective   September 1, 2025;                (17)  Section 100B.004(e), as added by S.B. 2373, Acts   of the 89th Legislature, Regular Session, 2025, and effective   September 1, 2025;                (18)  Section 134A.0065(k), as added by H.B. 4081, Acts   of the 89th Legislature, Regular Session, 2025, and effective   September 1, 2025;                (19)  Section 134A.007(c); and                (20)  Section 154.028(m).          SECTION 12.12.  The following provisions are repealed:                (1)  Section 111.002(b), Family Code;                (2)  Section 301.002, Family Code;                (3)  Section 276.002(e), Finance Code;                (4)  Section 23.303(e), Government Code, as added by   S.B. 293, Acts of the 89th Legislature, Regular Session, 2025, and   effective September 1, 2025;                (5)  Section 74.1625(b), Government Code; and                (6)  Section 410.305(b), Labor Code.          SECTION 12.13.  On the effective date of this Act, a rule   adopted by the Texas Supreme Court under Section 22.004, Government   Code, as that section existed before the effective date of this Act,   that conflicts with a provision of law is invalid and has no effect   in any action commenced in any court in this state on or after the   effective date of this Act.   ARTICLE 13. JURORS          SECTION 13.01.  Article 19A.105(b), Code of Criminal   Procedure, as amended by H.B. 2637, Acts of the 89th Legislature,   Regular Session, 2025, and effective September 1, 2025, is amended   to read as follows:          (b)  The following qualified persons may be exempted [claim   an exemption] from grand jury service:                (1)  a person who is 75 years of age or older;                (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 13.02.  Section 62.107(c), Government Code, as   amended by H.B. 2637, Acts of the 89th Legislature, Regular   Session, 2025, and effective September 1, 2025, 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 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 clerk of the court with whom   the declaration is filed shall notify the district clerk [secretary   of state].          SECTION 13.03.  Section 62.108(e), Government Code, as   amended by H.B. 2637, Acts of the 89th Legislature, Regular   Session, 2025, and effective September 1, 2025, is amended to read   as follows:          (e)  A person who has claimed a permanent exemption from jury   service because the person is 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 75 years of age or older to claim permanent exemption   at a later time.          SECTION 13.04.  Sections 62.109(a) and (b), Government Code,   as amended by H.B. 2637, Acts of the 89th Legislature, Regular   Session, 2025, and effective September 1, 2025, are amended to read   as follows:          (a)  The judge of a district court or, if authorized by the   local administrative district judge or the county jury plan, the   district clerk 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 described by Subsection   (a) 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.          SECTION 13.05.  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 the effective date of this Act. A   person who is summoned to appear for service on a grand jury or   petit jury before the effective date of this Act 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 14. MISCELLANEOUS JUDICIAL, COURT, AND RECORD PROVISIONS          SECTION 14.01.  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 14.02.  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;                (8)  a current or former employee or commissioner of   the State Commission on Judicial Conduct; or                (9) [, or] 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 14.03.  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 14.04.  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, Government Code;                (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 14.05.  (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 the effective   date of this Act. The minimum requirements for continuing legal   education for a compliance year that ends before that date 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 14.06.  Section 92.001(1), Government Code, as added   by H.B. 5081, Acts of the 89th Legislature, Regular Session, 2025,   and effective September 1, 2025, is amended to read as follows:                (1)  "At-risk individual" means:                      (A)  a judge, as defined by Section 33.001;                      (B)  a federal judge, as defined by Section   411.201, who resides in this state;                      (C)  a court clerk; or [and]                      (D) [(C)]  an employee of a state court, a court   clerk, the office, or another agency in the judicial branch of state   government.          SECTION 14.07.  Section 552.117(a), Government Code, as   amended by S.B. 370 and S.B. 1569, Acts of the 89th Legislature,   Regular Session, 2025, and effective September 1, 2025, is   reenacted and amended 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 and a family member of the current or former   employee, regardless of whether the person 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 employee of a public   defender's office as defined by Article 26.044(a), Code of Criminal   Procedure, regardless of whether the current or former employee   complies with Section 552.024 or 552.1175;                (21) [(20)]  a member of the governing board of an   institution of higher education or a private or independent   institution of higher education, as those terms are defined by   Section 61.003, Education Code;                (22) [(21)]  the chancellor or other chief executive   officer of a university system, as defined by Section 61.003,   Education Code; [or]                (23) [(22)]  the president or other chief executive   officer of an institution of higher education or a private or   independent institution of higher education, as those terms are   defined by Section 61.003, Education Code;                (24)  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;                (25)  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;                (26)  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                (27)  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.          SECTION 14.08.  Section 552.117, Government Code, is amended   by amending Subsection (b) and adding Subsection (b-1) to read as   follows:          (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 14.09.  Section 552.1175(a), Government Code, as   amended by S.B. 370, S.B. 1540, and S.B. 1569, Acts of the 89th   Legislature, Regular Session, 2025, and effective September 1,   2025, is reenacted and amended 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 or former employees of the office of the   attorney general and a family member of the current or former   employee;                (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;                (19)  a current or former United States attorney,   assistant United States attorney, federal public defender, deputy   federal public defender, or assistant federal public defender; [or]                (20)  a current or former employee of a public   defender's office as defined by Article 26.044(a), Code of Criminal   Procedure;                (21) [(20)]  a current or former election official, as   defined by Section 1.005, Election Code, or employee, volunteer, or   designee of an election official, or an employee of the secretary of   state's office who performs duties relating to elections;                (22) [(20)]  a member of the governing board of an   institution of higher education or a private or independent   institution of higher education, as those terms are defined by   Section 61.003, Education Code;                (23) [(21)]  the chancellor or other chief executive   officer of a university system, as defined by Section 61.003,   Education Code; [and]                (24) [(22)]  the president or other chief executive   officer of an institution of higher education or a private or   independent institution of higher education, as those terms are   defined by Section 61.003, Education Code;                (25)  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;                (26)  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;                (27)  a current or former employee of the Office of   Court Administration of the Texas Judicial System and entities   administratively attached to the office; and                (28)  a current or former employee or commissioner of   the State Commission on Judicial Conduct.          SECTION 14.10.  Section 552.1175, Government Code, is   amended by amending Subsection (e) and adding Subsection (e-1) to   read as follows:          (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 14.11.  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 14.12.  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 14.13.  Section 42.07(c), Penal Code, as amended by   S.B. 482, Acts of the 89th Legislature, Regular Session, 2025, and   effective September 1, 2025, 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;                      (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) [(3)]  the offense was committed against a   person the actor knows or reasonably should know is an employee or   agent of a utility while the person is performing a duty within the   scope of that employment or agency; or                      (D)  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 14.14.  Section 25.025(a), Tax Code, as amended by   H.B. 1620, S.B. 370, and S.B. 1569, Acts of the 89th Legislature,   Regular Session, 2025, and effective September 1, 2025, is   reenacted and 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 and a family member of the current or former   employee;                (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)  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)  a current or former attorney for the Department   of Family and Protective Services;                (30)  a member of the governing board of an institution   of higher education or a private or independent institution of   higher education, as those terms are defined by Section 61.003,   Education Code;                (31)  the chancellor or other chief executive officer   of a university system, as defined by Section 61.003, Education   Code; [and]                (32)  the president or other chief executive officer of   an institution of higher education or a private or independent   institution of higher education, as those terms are defined by   Section 61.003, Education Code;                (33) [(30)]  a current or former employee of a public   defender's office as defined by Article 26.044(a), Code of Criminal   Procedure;                (34)  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;                (35)  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;                (36)  a current or former employee of the Office of   Court Administration of the Texas Judicial System and entities   administratively attached to the office; and                (37)  a current or former employee or commissioner of   the State Commission on Judicial Conduct.          SECTION 14.15.  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 14.16.  Section 42.07, Penal Code, as amended by   this article, applies only to an offense committed on or after the   effective date of this Act. 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 the effective date of this Act if any element of the offense   occurred before that date.          SECTION 14.17.  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 15. EFFECTIVE DATE          SECTION 15.01.  Except as otherwise provided by a provision   of this Act, this Act takes effect on the 91st day after the last day   of the legislative session.