House Bill No. 4088 proposes amendments to the Government Code regarding jury service qualifications and introduces a juror mental health services reimbursement program. The bill adds Section 61.004, which mandates that courts inform jurors about the availability of mental health services reimbursement for those serving in trials involving specific offenses under the Penal Code. Additionally, it requires courts to provide jurors with a certificate of attendance that includes pertinent details about their service and the charges against the defendant.

The bill also amends Section 62.102 to update the qualifications for jury service, specifically adding a new disqualification criterion that prohibits individuals from serving if they have served as a juror for three consecutive months within the last 60 months. The reimbursement program, established under new Subchapter J, allows jurors who have served in relevant trials to receive up to $150 for mental health services related to their jury service, provided they meet certain eligibility requirements. The program aims to support jurors' mental well-being following their service in potentially distressing cases. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 62.102 (Government Code 62)