The bill amends the jurisdictional provisions of the Texas Supreme Court and the Court of Criminal Appeals, specifically addressing their roles in criminal law matters. It introduces new language that grants the Texas Supreme Court jurisdiction to resolve conflicts with the Court of Criminal Appeals regarding the interpretation of the Texas Constitution, particularly in cases involving writs of certiorari and questions certified from federal courts. Additionally, the bill clarifies that the Court of Criminal Appeals has final appellate jurisdiction in criminal cases, with the ability to review decisions from lower courts, except in cases of conflict as defined by the new provisions.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the existing Code of Criminal Procedure to expand the types of writs that the Court of Criminal Appeals can issue, including mandamus, and specifies that its jurisdiction is coextensive with the state. It also emphasizes that the Supreme Court's jurisdiction in criminal matters is limited to resolving conflicts as outlined in the new subsection. The changes are intended to clarify the roles of both courts and ensure that their jurisdictions align with the Texas Constitution. The bill will take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if that threshold is not met.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 22.001 (Government Code 22)
House Committee Report: Government Code 22.001 (Government Code 22)