Senate Bill No. 664, introduced by Huffman, aims to amend the qualifications, training, removal, and supervision of masters, magistrates, referees, associate judges, and hearing officers in Texas. The bill introduces a new Subchapter A under Chapter 54 of the Government Code, which outlines specific qualifications for these positions, including residency requirements, a minimum of five years of legal practice, and stipulations regarding prior removal from office. Additionally, it mandates that individuals whose duties involve bail must complete training as specified in the Code of Criminal Procedure. The bill also establishes procedures for the suspension and removal of these officials, requiring local administrative judges to ensure compliance with the new regulations.

Furthermore, the bill amends several existing sections of the Government Code to update qualifications for magistrates and hearing officers, including the removal of outdated requirements such as prior service as a justice of the peace or municipal court judge. It also repeals multiple sections of the Government Code that are no longer applicable. The changes will apply only to appointments made after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025, ensuring that current appointees are governed by the laws in effect at the time of their appointment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 54.1173, Government Code 54.1353, Government Code 54.1501, Government Code 54.1851, Government Code 54.1953, Government Code 54.2202, Government Code 54.2402, Government Code 54.2702, Government Code 54.2802, Government Code 54.2807, Government Code 74.092 (Government Code 54, Government Code 74)
Senate Committee Report: Government Code 54.1173, Government Code 54.1353, Government Code 54.1501, Government Code 54.1851, Government Code 54.1953, Government Code 54.2202, Government Code 54.2402, Government Code 54.2702, Government Code 54.2802, Government Code 54.2807, Government Code 33.022, Government Code 74.092 (Government Code 33, Government Code 54, Government Code 74)
Engrossed: Government Code 54.1173, Government Code 54.1353, Government Code 54.1501, Government Code 54.1851, Government Code 54.1953, Government Code 54.2202, Government Code 54.2402, Government Code 54.2702, Government Code 54.2802, Government Code 54.2807, Government Code 33.022, Government Code 74.092 (Government Code 33, Government Code 54, Government Code 74)
House Committee Report: Government Code 54.1173, Government Code 54.1353, Government Code 54.1501, Government Code 54.1851, Government Code 54.1953, Government Code 54.2202, Government Code 54.2402, Government Code 54.2702, Government Code 54.2802, Government Code 54.2807, Government Code 33.022, Government Code 74.092 (Government Code 33, Government Code 54, Government Code 74)