TX SB2127

Reduces the minimum active service requirement for retired or former justices and judges to be eligible for assignment from 96 months to 72 months in district, statutory probate, statutory county, or appellate courts

Narrows the geographic restriction on practicing law for assigned appellate judges: instead of being barred from appearing in any court statewide, they must only refrain from practicing in courts of appeals and lower courts within their assigned appellate court's jurisdiction for two years

Narrows the geographic restriction for assigned trial-level judges: instead of a statewide prohibition, they must only refrain from practicing in courts within the administrative judicial region where assigned for two years

Adds new conflict-of-interest requirement: assigned justices and judges must certify they will not hear any matter involving a party who is a current or former client for the duration of their assignment

Passed the Senate 31-0 on April 24, 2025, and the House 137-0 on May 23, 2025; takes effect on the 91st day after the legislative session ends