S.B. No. 1888 proposes amendments to the qualifications for serving as a grand juror and petit juror, particularly in counties with populations of less than 1,000. The bill introduces new provisions that allow individuals who are residents of contiguous counties within the same judicial district to serve as jurors, provided they meet certain criteria, such as holding a valid Texas driver's license and being qualified to vote in their respective counties. Specifically, the bill adds Subsections (a-1) to Articles 19A.101 and 19A.201 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, which outline these new qualifications for grand jurors, and also modifies the reconstitution of the jury wheel to include names from contiguous counties.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 62.001 of the Government Code to allow for the jury wheel to be reconstituted using names from contiguous counties in low-population areas, while also ensuring that individuals disqualified from jury service are excluded. The changes aim to enhance the pool of potential jurors in smaller counties, ensuring fair representation while maintaining the integrity of the jury selection process. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, and applies only to individuals summoned for jury service after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 62.001, Government Code 15.081, Government Code 62.102 (Government Code 62, Government Code 15)
Senate Committee Report: Government Code 62.001, Government Code 15.081, Government Code 62.102 (Government Code 62, Government Code 15)