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 certification of questions 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 magistrate positions and updating the language to reflect the current structure of the judicial system. Notably, it specifies that the Court of Criminal Appeals can issue various writs, including mandamus, to protect its jurisdiction. The changes are intended to streamline the judicial process and clarify the roles of the two courts in handling criminal law matters, with the new provisions taking effect immediately upon receiving the necessary legislative approval or on September 1, 2025, if not.

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)