S.B. No. 2127 amends the Government Code to update the eligibility criteria for the assignment of retired and former justices and judges to active service in appellate courts. The bill reduces the required active service duration from 96 months to 72 months, with at least 48 months in an appellate court. Additionally, it introduces new requirements for justices and judges to certify their willingness not to appear as attorneys in certain courts and not to hear matters involving current or former clients during their assignment. These changes aim to ensure that assigned justices and judges maintain a high standard of integrity and professionalism.

The bill also revises the definition of "retired judge" to include those who have served at least 72 months in statutory probate or statutory county courts and have retired under the Texas County and District Retirement System. Furthermore, it establishes similar eligibility criteria for judges seeking to be named on a list for assignments, including the requirement to demonstrate substantial experience in their area of specialty and to complete educational requirements annually. The amendments will apply only to assignments made on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set to take effect 91 days after the legislative session concludes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 74.003, Government Code 74.041, Government Code 74.055 (Government Code 74)
Senate Committee Report: Government Code 74.003, Government Code 74.041, Government Code 74.055 (Government Code 74)
Engrossed: Government Code 74.003, Government Code 74.041, Government Code 74.055 (Government Code 74)
House Committee Report: Government Code 74.003, Government Code 74.041, Government Code 74.055 (Government Code 74)
Enrolled: Government Code 74.003, Government Code 74.041, Government Code 74.055 (Government Code 74)