TX HB2136

Requires the Office of Court Administration of the Texas Judicial System to design, adopt, and disseminate a standardized model criminal citation and addendum for fine-only offenses, with the initial version due by December 31, 2026

Mandates all law enforcement agencies adopt citations conforming to the model by September 1, 2027, with updates required by September 1 of each even-numbered year thereafter

Model citations must be written in plain language and prominently display court appearance date/time/location, offense charged, consequences of missing court, and court contact information, along with options for resolving citations without appearing

Addendum must include information about available resources such as text reminders, parking, transportation, child care assistance, and details on payment plans, deferrals, community service, and fee waivers for those unable to afford fines

Office must consult with stakeholders including the Bill Blackwood Law Enforcement Management Institute, Texas Commission on Law Enforcement, DPS, judges, prosecutors, public defenders, and law enforcement associations when designing the model citation