Senate Bill No. 1647 seeks to amend the Code of Criminal Procedure in Texas to clarify the qualifications and exemptions for grand jury and petit jury service. A significant change is the replacement of the term "excuses" with "exemptions," which highlights the criteria for individuals who may be exempt from serving. The bill introduces a provision allowing individuals aged 75 or older to claim a permanent exemption from grand jury service through a signed statement filed with the district clerk. Additionally, it mandates the maintenance of a current register of individuals who have claimed this permanent exemption, ensuring better management of those exempt from service.

The bill also updates the qualifications for serving as a grand juror, stipulating that individuals must not have felony convictions or be under indictment. It requires the district clerk to prepare monthly lists of disqualified individuals based on felony convictions and residency status, and to report these lists to relevant authorities. Other amendments include the removal of the term "excused" in disqualifications related to citizenship and residency, and the establishment of a clearer process for requesting exemptions, which includes an affidavit and, when applicable, a physician's statement for those with physical or mental impairments. These changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will apply to individuals summoned for jury service on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 62.001, Government Code 62.0132, Government Code 62.102, Government Code 62.106, Government Code 62.107, Government Code 62.108, Government Code 62.109, Government Code 62.113, Government Code 13.007, Government Code 62.115 (Government Code 13, Government Code 62)