The bill amends Section 841.005 of the Health and Safety Code to clarify the role of the Texas Board of Criminal Justice in providing legal representation for indigent individuals involved in civil commitment proceedings. The language specifies that the "board" refers to the Texas Board of Criminal Justice, replacing the previous reference to the Office of State Counsel for Offenders. The bill mandates that the board is responsible for representing indigent persons in these proceedings, ensuring that legal support is available to those who cannot afford it.

Additionally, the bill includes a provision that if the board is unable to provide representation, the court is required to appoint alternative counsel for the indigent individual. This ensures that all individuals facing civil commitment have access to legal representation, thereby upholding their rights during the legal process. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 841.005 (Health and Safety Code 841)
House Committee Report: Health and Safety Code 841.005 (Health and Safety Code 841)
Engrossed: Health and Safety Code 841.005 (Health and Safety Code 841)