Texas Senate Bill SB16

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

• Filed: 8/7/25
• Out of Senate Committee: 8/11/25
• Voted on by Senate: 8/12/25

Caption

Relating to the operation and administration of and practices and procedures related to proceedings in the judicial branch of state government, including court security, court documents and arrest warrants, document delivery, juvenile boards, constitutional amendment election challenges, record retention, youth diversion, court-ordered mental health services, the powers of the Texas Supreme Court, and jurors; increasing a criminal penalty; authorizing fees.

Impact

If enacted, SB16 will create significant changes in various aspects of Texas law, primarily focusing on judicial efficiency and accountability. One of the most notable impacts will be the introduction of new fees associated with court practices, which could potentially affect access to justice for low-income individuals. Furthermore, the implementation of additional training for court personnel in areas such as mental health and victim protection is intended to enhance overall court operations. However, this may also increase the burden on local governments and resources as they adapt to these new requirements.

Summary

Senate Bill 16 (SB16) seeks to modernize and enhance the operations and administration related to the judicial branch of Texas state government. This comprehensive bill includes provisions for improving court security, updating procedures for handling court documents and arrest warrants, and enhancing the delivery of services related to juvenile boards and family law matters. Notably, it also addresses the handling of constitutional amendment election challenges and outlines new mandates for record retention and document management. Additionally, the bill proposes adjustments to jurisdictional definitions and enhances regulation around court-ordered mental health services, aiming to ensure better service delivery to vulnerable populations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB16 is mixed, with advocates expressing support for the bill as a necessary advancement in judicial practices that could lead to improved service delivery to Texas citizens. Proponents emphasize that the reforms, particularly in mental health services and court security, could make the judiciary more responsive to community needs. Conversely, critics are raising concerns regarding the potential financial implications of new fees and the overall approach to implementing these reforms, with some arguing they could exacerbate existing inequalities within the judicial system.

Contention

Key points of contention within the discussions of SB16 include the balance between enforcing new regulations and ensuring accessibility for all residents, particularly those most affected by cost barriers. Additionally, there are debates surrounding the adequacy of resources allocated towards training and supporting judges and court staff to manage the expected changes, especially regarding mental health interventions. These discussions underline a tension between improving judicial efficiency and maintaining equitable access to legal resources and support services.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Health And Safety Code

• Chapter 171. Abortion
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 574. Court-ordered Mental Health Services
  • Section: 011

• Chapter 12. Powers And Duties Of Department Of State Health Services
  • Section: New Section

Occupations Code

• Chapter 455. Massage Therapy
  • Section: 351
  • Section: 351

Property Code

• Chapter 24. Forcible Entry And Detainer
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section

Government Code

• Chapter 25. Statutory County Courts
  • Section: 0212
  • Section: 1723
  • Section: 0003
  • Section: 0007
  • Section: 0062
  • Section: 00212
  • Section: 2282
  • Section: 2704
  • Section: 00212
  • Section: 2704
  • Section: 1102
  • Section: 00212

• Chapter 22. Appellate Courts
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 81. State Bar
  • Section: 113

Civil Practice And Remedies Code

• Chapter 30. Miscellaneous Provisions
  • Section: 0035
  • Section: 0035

Family Code

• Chapter 53. Proceedings Prior To Judicial Proceedings
  • Section: 01
  • Section: 01

• Chapter 82. Applying For Protective Order
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 6. Suit For Dissolution Of Marriage
  • Section: 4035

Human Resources Code

• Chapter 42. Regulation Of Certain Facilities, Homes, And Agencies That Provide Child-care Services
  • Section: 0426
  • Section: 0426

• Chapter 152. Juvenile Boards
  • Section: 00145

Labor Code

• Chapter 410. Adjudication Of Disputes
  • Section: 305

Code Of Criminal Procedure

• Chapter 19a. Grand Jury Organization
  • Section: 105

• Chapter 45. Justice And Municipal Courts
  • Section: New Section