The bill, S.B. No. 1576, amends the Government Code to establish new qualifications for masters, magistrates, referees, and associate judges in Texas. It introduces a new Subchapter A under Chapter 54, which specifies that, generally, these judicial appointees must have been licensed to practice law in Texas for at least five years prior to their appointment. However, for certain positions outlined in the bill, a minimum of two years of legal practice is required. Additionally, the bill modifies existing qualifications for magistrates and other judicial roles by removing the requirement of having been licensed for at least four years, thereby streamlining the criteria for appointment.

The bill also includes various amendments to existing sections of the Government Code, such as removing outdated residency and licensing requirements for magistrates and clarifying the qualifications for criminal law hearing officers. Notably, it specifies that the qualifications for associate judges now require at least five years of legal practice, reflecting a shift towards ensuring a higher level of experience among appointees. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will apply only to those appointed after this date, allowing current appointees to continue under the previous regulations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 54.302, Government Code 54.652, Government Code 54.802, Government Code 54.853, Government Code 33.022, Government Code 54.902, Government Code 54.972, Government Code 54.1173, Government Code 54.1353, Government Code 54.1501, Government Code 54.1804, Government Code 54.1851, Government Code 54.1953, Government Code 54.2202, Government Code 54.2402, Government Code 54.2602, Government Code 54.2702, Government Code 54.2802, Government Code 54.2807 (Government Code 54, Government Code 33)