H.B. No. 444 amends the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure to enhance the process for filing applications for writs of habeas corpus based on newly available scientific evidence that was not accessible during the original trial. The bill specifies that eligible indigent defendants are entitled to legal representation in habeas corpus proceedings if they raise claims under Article 11.073, which pertains to relevant scientific evidence that was not reasonably available at the time of trial or that contradicts evidence relied upon by the state. Additionally, the bill mandates that courts cannot deny relief under Article 11.073 without providing a written decision that addresses the substance of the claim.

The bill also clarifies the criteria for granting relief based on newly available scientific evidence, requiring that the evidence must be admissible under current Texas Rules of Evidence and that there is a reasonable likelihood it could have influenced the conviction or sentencing. Furthermore, it establishes that the changes in law will only apply to applications filed after the effective date of the Act, which is set for December 1, 2025. This ensures that any applications submitted prior to this date will be governed by the existing laws.