H.B. No. 745 proposes an amendment to Section 62.106(a) of the Government Code to include new exemptions from jury service for certain individuals. Specifically, the bill introduces an exemption for victims of crime or close relatives of deceased crime victims who have testified in court proceedings related to the offense. These individuals may be excused from jury duty if attending court proceedings would cause them severe anxiety or post-traumatic stress. Additionally, the bill retains existing exemptions for various other categories, such as those over 75 years of age, primary caretakers, and military personnel on active duty.

The bill also clarifies that the changes will apply only to individuals summoned for jury service on or after the effective date of September 1, 2025. Those summoned before this date will continue to be governed by the previous laws in effect at that time. This legislation aims to provide relief to individuals who may face emotional distress from participating in jury service due to their experiences as crime victims or relatives of victims.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 62.106 (Government Code 62)
House Committee Report: Government Code 62.106 (Government Code 62)
Engrossed: Government Code 62.106 (Government Code 62)