S.B. No. 1574 establishes a "centers of excellence" program developed by the Texas Judicial Council aimed at recognizing and supporting justices and judges who demonstrate exceptional service to their communities and the judiciary. The bill introduces Section 71.040 to the Government Code, which outlines the criteria for awarding this recognition. The council is required to consider factors such as governance, access, fairness, case flow management, court operations, and compliance with various statutory and procedural requirements when evaluating candidates for the program.

The bill specifies that justices and judges from various court levels, including appellate, district, county, and municipal courts, are eligible to apply for this recognition. The changes enacted by this bill will only apply to those recognized under the centers of excellence program after the effective date of September 1, 2025.

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