The bill amends the Government Code to authorize certain counties to provide additional compensation to judges and justices for extrajudicial services. Specifically, it introduces a new section, 25A.0115, allowing the commissioners court of a county to pay judges of the business court additional compensation, not exceeding the limits set in Section 659.012. This compensation can be paid from the county's general fund in monthly or biweekly installments, depending on the court's authorization. The bill also clarifies that this additional compensation is separate from the salary provided by the state and any other legally authorized compensation.
Additionally, the bill modifies existing provisions regarding compensation for justices of the courts of appeals and judges of the business court. It removes specific limitations on justices from the Fifteenth Court of Appeals District and adjusts the maximum combined salary for justices of the court of appeals, increasing it to $13,000 more than the base salary for a justice of the supreme court. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and are intended to enhance the compensation structure for judges and justices performing extrajudicial duties.
Statutes affected: Introduced: Government Code 31.001, Government Code 659.012 (Government Code 659, Government Code 31)