The bill amends the Code of Criminal Procedure to improve legal representation for indigent defendants in Texas. It introduces provisions for the appointment of counsel for eligible defendants who have potentially meritorious claims for relief under a writ of habeas corpus, requiring courts to appoint attorneys to investigate claims of actual innocence, lesser offenses, or convictions under unconstitutional laws. Additionally, it mandates that magistrates inform arrested individuals of their rights, including the right to counsel, and provides for reasonable assistance in completing necessary forms. The bill also allows for videoconferencing in proceedings before magistrates to ensure timely communication of rights.

Moreover, the bill enhances the compensation and reimbursement processes for appointed counsel in criminal cases. It includes provisions for reimbursing attorneys for travel expenses incurred outside the county where the case is pending and requires prior court approval for certain expenses. The bill clarifies the fee request submission process and conditions for appealing disapproved payment requests. It also expands the definition of "managed assigned counsel program" and allows public defender's offices and managed assigned counsel programs to receive criminal history record information without charge. These amendments aim to streamline the compensation process and ensure adequate funding for legal representation in criminal cases, with the bill set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 79.037, Government Code 411.082, Government Code 411.1272, Transportation Code 79.031 (Transportation Code 79, Government Code 411, Government Code 79)
House Committee Report: Government Code 411.082, Government Code 411.1272, Transportation Code 730.007 (Transportation Code 79, Government Code 411, Transportation Code 730, Government Code 79)