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 appellate jurisdiction in cases of conflict with the Court of Criminal Appeals regarding the interpretation of the Texas Constitution. This includes the ability to resolve conflicts related to writs of certiorari and questions of law 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.

The bill also revises the list of courts with criminal jurisdiction, adding the Texas Supreme Court and removing several references to magistrates and other courts, streamlining the structure. It emphasizes that the changes apply to any relevant matters pending in Texas courts 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 of the legislature, or on September 1, 2025, if such a vote is not achieved.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 22.001 (Government Code 22)