BILL ANALYSIS

AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT

Current law provides for ten exemptions from jury service. Under one of these exemptions, those aged 70 or older may apply for a permanent exemption and no longer be called for service.

As part of an effort to increase the pool of eligible jury candidates, H.B. 2015 would raise the age at which one qualifies for such an exemption from 70 to 75 years. This change could help alleviate the shortage of jury candidates in the state. The proposed increase in the age limit also is appropriate given the continuing improvement in life expectancy.

H.B. 2015 amends current law relating to the exemption from jury service for persons over a certain age.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency.

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1. Amends Section 62.106(a), Government Code, to authorize a person qualified to serve as a petit juror to establish an exemption from jury service if the person meets certain criteria, including if the person is over 75, rather than 70, years of age.

SECTION 2. Amends Section 62.107(c), Government Code, to make a conforming change.

SECTION 3. Amends Sections 62.108(a), (b), (c), and (e), Government Code, to make conforming changes.

SECTION 4. Makes application of this Act prospective.

SECTION 5. Effective date: September 1, 2023.