TX HB3449

Expands reimbursable expenses for appointed counsel in noncapital criminal cases to include travel, food, and lodging costs when visiting a defendant confined in a correctional facility located more than 50 miles from the court

Allows reimbursement for costs associated with remotely communicating confidentially with defendants held in distant facilities

Maintains existing reimbursement categories for investigation expenses and mental health or other expert costs

Expenses with prior court approval are reimbursed following capital case procedures under Articles 26.052(f) and (g); expenses without prior approval follow Article 26.052(h)

Takes effect September 1, 2025, and applies only to expenses incurred on or after that date