Bill > HB2920

This bill modifies the process for appointing special or temporary justices of the peace in Texas counties by requiring each justice of the peace to provide a pre-approved list of three qualified individuals who could serve as a temporary replacement when they are unable to perform their duties. The bill expands the criteria for who can serve as a temporary justice, now requiring candidates to be a qualified voter from the specific justice precinct, have completed relevant court process training, not be under investigation by judicial conduct or ethics commissions, and not be a party in pending court matters. The county judge (or a designated county employee) can now more easily appoint a temporary justice when the regular justice is disqualified, sick, absent, or unable to perform duties. The bill also clarifies that temporary justices have all the rights and powers of a regular justice while serving, but cannot make significant personnel changes in the office. The changes apply only to temporary justices appointed after the bill's effective date, which will be either immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote in the legislature or on September 1, 2025, if that threshold is not met.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2920