H.B. No. 3664 introduces several amendments to the Code of Criminal Procedure and the Government Code concerning grand jury proceedings and the training of prospective grand jurors. A new requirement mandates that all prospective grand jurors must complete a training course on grand jury proceedings before being accepted and impaneled. This training, as outlined in Section 72.0365 of the Government Code, will cover the purpose and rules of grand jury service, the selection process, and procedures for deliberation. Additionally, the bill stipulates that the acceptance of a grand juror who has not completed this training does not invalidate the grand jury proceedings and cannot be used as grounds for appeal or to challenge an indictment.

The bill also establishes new provisions regarding the investigation of individuals by grand juries. Specifically, it prohibits a grand jury from investigating a person for an offense if that person has previously been investigated for the same offense without a bill of indictment being issued, unless new evidence is presented. Furthermore, the bill requires the state attorney to disclose any exculpatory evidence to the grand jury before they vote on an indictment and mandates that a notarized statement of this evidence be prepared and certified by the grand jury foreperson. These changes aim to enhance the integrity and transparency of grand jury processes in Texas. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

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