Bill > HB2064

This bill makes several significant changes to the judicial conduct and transparency system in Texas. It expands the definition of judicial misconduct to include failure to meet court deadlines and persistent violations of specific criminal procedure codes. The bill introduces a new administrative penalty for filing false complaints against judges, with escalating fines for repeat offenders. It also modifies the complaint investigation process by requiring more detailed reporting, providing specific timelines for investigations, and mandating notification to the judge under investigation. A new judicial transparency provision requires district court judges to submit quarterly reports detailing their work hours, including time spent on case-related duties, administrative tasks, and continuing education. The bill increases the base salary for district court judges from $140,000 to $161,000 and makes technical changes to retirement benefit calculations for judges. Additionally, the bill strengthens reporting requirements for judicial misconduct, including mandatory notifications to state leadership when a judge receives a public reprimand. The changes aim to improve judicial accountability, transparency, and performance by establishing clearer standards and reporting mechanisms for judicial conduct and work.

Justice

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2064