S.B. No. 2229 introduces a new provision in the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure regarding the change of venue for certain criminal cases involving peace officers. Specifically, it adds Article 31A.0021, which mandates that a judge must order a change of venue if a defendant is a peace officer or was one at the time of the alleged offense, and has been charged with an offense committed under the color of their employment as a peace officer. This change aims to ensure fair trials for peace officers by allowing for venue changes in cases where public perception may impact the proceedings.

The bill stipulates that the new law will only apply to offenses committed on or after its effective date of September 1, 2025. For offenses committed before this date, the existing laws will remain in effect. This provision ensures that defendants charged with prior offenses are not subject to the new venue change requirements, thereby maintaining legal consistency for past cases.