S.B. No. 34 amends Section 301.025 of the Government Code regarding the testimony and production of evidence before the Texas legislature or its committees. The bill establishes that a witness called by either house of the legislature or a legislative committee is required to testify or produce evidence, with the exception that they may refuse to do so if it may incriminate them. This change replaces the previous provision that allowed witnesses to refuse testimony based on the potential for disgrace or infamy. Additionally, the bill clarifies that if a witness testifies while claiming potential incrimination, that testimony cannot be used against them in criminal prosecution, except in cases of perjury or false statements.

Furthermore, the bill affirms the right of witnesses to have legal counsel present when testifying before the legislature or its committees. This amendment aims to enhance the legal protections for witnesses while ensuring that legislative inquiries can proceed effectively. The act will take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote from both houses; otherwise, it will become effective 91 days after the legislative session concludes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 301.025 (Government Code 301)
Senate Committee Report: Government Code 301.025 (Government Code 301)