H.B. No. 3362 amends the Code of Criminal Procedure in Texas to update the regulations surrounding grand jury proceedings, specifically regarding the recording of these proceedings and the rights of accused or suspected individuals. The bill changes the heading of Article 20A.201 to "RECORDING OF GRAND JURY PROCEEDINGS" and stipulates that all statements made by the grand jury or the attorney representing the state must be recorded, while explicitly stating that grand jury deliberations may not be recorded. Additionally, it clarifies that the validity of a grand jury proceeding is not compromised by an unintentional failure to record as required.
Furthermore, the bill introduces provisions for the discovery process, allowing accused or suspected individuals to inspect and duplicate certain documents and evidence related to the grand jury investigation. It emphasizes that the state must disclose exculpatory evidence and outlines the confidentiality of victim and witness information. A significant addition is the provision that individuals who disclose information received under this article in an unauthorized manner may face contempt of court penalties. The changes will apply to grand jury proceedings that begin on or after September 1, 2025.