The bill amends the Texas Property Code to streamline the eviction process and clarify the jurisdiction of justice courts in eviction suits. It introduces provisions that allow for the transfer of eviction cases to adjacent precincts if a sheriff or constable cannot serve the citation within five business days. The bill specifies that justice courts can adjudicate the right to actual possession of the premises but not the title to the property, and it prohibits counterclaims and joinder of suits against third parties in eviction cases. Additionally, it establishes new notice requirements for landlords before filing eviction suits, mandates sworn eviction petitions, and outlines procedures for serving citations to ensure tenants are informed of their rights.

Further amendments facilitate electronic proceedings in eviction cases, allowing parties to appear via videoconference or teleconference. The bill enables landlords to file a sworn motion for summary disposition without a trial, streamlining the process for obtaining judgments. It also updates terminology from "pauper's affidavit" to "statement of inability to afford payment of court costs" and clarifies tenant obligations regarding rent payments during the appeal process. The bill allows for contests regarding rent payments when a government agency is involved and specifies that writs of possession may be issued without a hearing under certain conditions. These changes will apply to eviction suits filed on or after January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Property Code 24.004, Property Code 24.005, Property Code 24.0051, Property Code 24.00511, Property Code 24.00512, Property Code 24.0052, Property Code 24.0053, Property Code 24.0054, Property Code 24.006, Property Code 24.0061, Property Code 24.0062, Property Code 24.011 (Property Code 24)
House Committee Report: Property Code 24.004, Property Code 24.005, Property Code 24.0051, Property Code 24.00511, Property Code 24.00512, Property Code 24.0052, Property Code 24.0053, Property Code 24.0054, Property Code 24.0061, Property Code 24.011 (Property Code 24)