S.B. No. 1210 amends the jurisdictional provisions of the Texas Supreme Court and the Court of Criminal Appeals, specifically addressing their roles in criminal law matters. The bill 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, it 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.

The bill also revises the list of courts with criminal jurisdiction, removing several categories of magistrates and courts while adding the Texas Supreme Court's role in specific conflicts. It emphasizes that the jurisdictional changes apply to any pending matters as of the effective date of the Act. The Act is set to 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)
Senate Committee Report: Government Code 22.001 (Government Code 22)
Engrossed: Government Code 22.001 (Government Code 22)