The bill, S.B. No. 1372, amends Section 411.164 of the Government Code to clarify access to the crime laboratory portal for defense counsel. Specifically, it allows the attorney representing the state in a criminal case to designate the defendant's attorney as the individual authorized to access and use the crime laboratory portal to request records subject to discovery. The bill removes the previous requirement that the defendant also be designated, streamlining the process for defense attorneys to obtain necessary evidence.

The changes made by this bill will only apply to criminal proceedings that begin on or after its effective date of September 1, 2025. Any proceedings that commence before this date will continue to be governed by the existing law, ensuring that the transition to the new regulations does not affect ongoing cases.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 411.164 (Government Code 411)