Bill > HB2726

This bill modifies Article 36.16 of the Code of Criminal Procedure regarding jury instructions and arguments in criminal trials. The bill updates language to use gender-neutral terminology and makes several important procedural changes. Specifically, it clarifies that after the judge receives and potentially modifies the main jury charge, the defendant or their counsel can present objections to the charge. The bill also establishes that if a further charge is given to the jury after arguments have begun (which can occur due to improper arguments, jury requests, or the judge's discretion to introduce additional testimony), the defendant has the right to object to this supplemental charge in the same manner as prescribed in existing law. Most notably, the bill adds a new provision requiring that when a court delivers a further charge to the jury, each party must be permitted to present an argument to the jury. The changes will apply only to criminal proceedings that commence on or after the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025, ensuring that existing proceedings are not retroactively affected.

Justice

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2726