Texas House Bill HB2637

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 2/11/25
• Out of House Committee: 4/11/25
• Voted on by House: 4/24/25
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/21/25
• Voted on by Senate: 5/25/25
• Governor Action: 6/20/25

Caption

Relating to the practice and procedures for summoning prospective grand jurors and petit jurors and the exemption of certain persons from grand jury and petit jury service.

Impact

The passage of HB2637 would modify how individuals are selected for jury service and the criteria by which they may be excused or disqualified. The bill mandates that district clerks maintain updated lists of individuals who are either disqualified due to felony convictions or who qualify for exemptions, and that this information be shared with the secretary of state and local voter registrars. These procedural changes may enhance the efficiency of jury summoning and ensure that only qualified individuals are called to serve, potentially resulting in more effective jury operations across Texas.

Summary

House Bill 2637 concerns the regulations and practices related to summoning prospective grand jurors and petit jurors in Texas. The bill aims to amend existing laws within the Code of Criminal Procedure that determine the qualifications for serving on a jury and the exemptions available to potential jurors. Notably, it introduces provisions for individuals aged 75 and older to establish a permanent exemption from jury service, which underscores an effort to accommodate the elderly population and relieve them from such civic responsibilities unless they choose otherwise.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB2637 appears to be supportive, particularly among those advocating for the rights and accommodations of the elderly population regarding jury service. Recognizing the need to adjust civic duties for older citizens reflects a growing awareness of their circumstances. However, potential opposition may arise from those who feel that any form of blanket exemption could undermine the diversity and representation within juries, which is critical for the justice system.

Contention

Notable points of contention associated with HB2637 stem from the balance between the need for qualified jurors and the rights of individuals to be exempted from service. While the legislation aims to assist older individuals, there are concerns among legal professionals and civic groups about whether it may inadvertently reduce the pool of available jurors, potentially impacting the fairness of trials. Critics might argue that while exemptions are necessary, they need to be carefully balanced to ensure that the jury system retains its integrity.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

• Chapter 62. Petit Juries
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 0132
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 0132
  • Section: 0132
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 0132
  • Section: New Section

Civil Practice And Remedies Code

• Chapter 30. Miscellaneous Provisions
  • Section: New Section

Code Of Criminal Procedure

• Chapter 19a. Grand Jury Organization
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 101
  • Section: 105
  • Section: 051
  • Section: 101
  • Section: 105
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 051
  • Section: 101
  • Section: 105
  • Section: 051
  • Section: 101
  • Section: 105
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 051
  • Section: 101
  • Section: New Section