The bill amends Article 11.074 of the Code of Criminal Procedure to enhance the representation of certain indigent defendants seeking a writ of habeas corpus. It specifies that if the state indicates that an eligible indigent defendant has a potentially meritorious claim for relief, the court is required to appoint an attorney to investigate the claim and represent the defendant in the habeas corpus application process. The bill introduces a new definition of a "potentially meritorious claim," which includes claims of actual innocence, guilt of a lesser offense, convictions under unconstitutional laws, or violations of constitutional rights.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that the changes apply to defendants in custody on or after the effective date, regardless of when the offense occurred. The effective date for this legislation is set for September 1, 2025. The amendments aim to ensure that indigent defendants have adequate legal representation when challenging their convictions through habeas corpus petitions.