The bill amends the Texas Property Code to clarify and streamline eviction procedures, enhancing tenant rights and outlining the responsibilities of both defendants and plaintiffs. Key provisions include expanding the jurisdiction of justice courts to adjacent precincts, requiring landlords to provide written notice to tenants before filing eviction suits, and prohibiting counterclaims and joinder of suits against third parties in eviction cases. The bill also establishes that only the legislature can modify or suspend eviction procedures, ensuring that any changes are legislatively enacted. Additionally, it allows for electronic proceedings and summary disposition without trial if there are no disputed facts, aiming to expedite the eviction process while protecting tenants' rights.

Further amendments focus on the appeal process for eviction judgments, including stipulations that a writ of possession cannot be executed until four days after the defendant is served, and that defendants must pay rent into the court registry during the appeal. The bill redefines "defendant" in place of "tenant" and mandates the return of specific personal property upon demand. It also requires municipalities that fund legal aid for tenants to provide equal funding for relocation assistance. The bill repeals outdated provisions and will take effect on September 1, 2025, applying only to eviction suits filed after that date.

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)