Bill > SB304

This bill amends the Texas Government Code to expand the jurisdiction of municipal courts by allowing city governments to create ordinances that grant these courts additional powers. Specifically, municipal courts could be authorized to have civil jurisdiction for enforcing local government and transportation code ordinances related to health, safety, and nuisance abatement. The bill would enable municipal courts to have concurrent jurisdiction with district or county courts for addressing health and safety violations within the municipality's territorial limits, including properties owned by the municipality. Furthermore, these municipal courts would gain the authority to issue search warrants to investigate potential ordinance violations and seizure warrants to secure, remove, or demolish properties that are causing health or safety issues, along with removing associated debris. The provisions of this bill would take effect on September 1, 2025, providing municipalities with a new legal tool to address local health, safety, and nuisance concerns more efficiently.