Bill > HB933

This bill modifies the jurisdiction of the Texas Supreme Court and the Court of Criminal Appeals, primarily addressing how these courts handle legal conflicts and appeals. Specifically, the bill adds a new provision allowing the Texas Supreme Court to have appellate jurisdiction to resolve conflicts between itself and the Court of Criminal Appeals regarding constitutional interpretations, particularly in two scenarios: when a writ of certiorari is submitted by a party in any state proceeding, or when a federal court certifies a question of law. The bill amends the Code of Criminal Procedure to explicitly list these new jurisdictional powers, revising the enumeration of courts with criminal jurisdiction and expanding the types of writs that can be issued. It clarifies that the Court of Criminal Appeals retains final appellate jurisdiction in criminal cases, except in the specific conflict scenarios now assigned to the Supreme Court. The legislature intends these changes to be consistent with the Texas Constitution's provisions about court jurisdictions. The bill will take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote in the legislature, or on September 1, 2025, if it does not receive the immediate vote threshold. The changes will apply to any relevant matters pending in Texas courts on or after the effective date.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB933