House Bill No. 4554 proposes amendments to the Texas Property Code regarding procedures for residential eviction suits. The bill introduces new provisions that require courts to set trial dates for eviction suits between the 10th and 21st day after the suit is filed. Additionally, it modifies the issuance of writs of possession, stating that a writ may not be issued before the sixth day after a judgment for possession is rendered unless a possession bond is filed and approved. However, if a judgment for possession is granted by default, the court must issue a writ of possession immediately upon demand and payment of required fees, regardless of whether a possession bond has been filed or an appeal has been perfected.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that a sheriff or constable execute a writ of possession issued under the new default judgment provision within 10 business days. The term "business day" is defined to exclude weekends and holidays. The changes will only apply to eviction suits where the notice to vacate is given on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025. The Texas Supreme Court is tasked with adopting necessary rules to implement these changes as soon as practicable after the Act's effective date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Property Code 24.0051, Property Code 24.0061 (Property Code 24)