The Texas Innocence Inquiry Commission Act establishes a new framework for addressing claims of actual innocence for individuals convicted of crimes in Texas by introducing Chapter 68 to the Code of Criminal Procedure. This chapter outlines the definitions, rules, and procedures for the Texas Innocence Inquiry Commission, which is authorized to investigate credible claims of actual innocence, conduct hearings, and issue findings based on new evidence not available during the original trial. The commission is required to notify victims and co-defendants about the inquiry process and provide updates on investigations. It also has the authority to issue subpoenas, require evidence preservation, and recommend judicial reviews or pardons if sufficient evidence of innocence is found.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws related to compensation for wrongfully imprisoned individuals, creating new provisions for the commission to appoint consultants and accept funding for operational expenses. It modifies the criteria for compensation applications, extending deadlines to include findings of actual innocence, and clarifies the conditions under which execution orders may be modified in death penalty cases. The commission will consist of eight members from diverse legal and public backgrounds, with a mandate for annual reporting on its activities. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Subtitle F, Title , Government Code 501.101, Civil Practice and Remedies Code 103.001, Civil Practice and Remedies Code 103.003, Government Code 78.054, Government Code 501.101 (Civil Practice and Remedies Code 103, Government Code 501, Government Code 78, Subtitle F, Title , Government Code 501)