TX SB251

Authorizes the Bell County Commissioners Court to appoint criminal law magistrates to serve courts with criminal jurisdiction, with positions that may be full-time or part-time at the commissioners court's discretion

Requires magistrates to either have served as a justice of the peace or municipal court judge, or be licensed attorneys in good standing with the State Bar of Texas for at least 2 years

Grants magistrates concurrent criminal jurisdiction with Bell County justice of the peace courts and standard magistrate powers under the Code of Criminal Procedure, including authority to administer oaths

Magistrates must prioritize duties under Article 15.17 (initial appearance hearings) and give preference to cases of individuals held in county jail when conducting hearings for bail, admonishments, and appointment of counsel

Adds Bell County criminal magistrates to the official list of magistrate types recognized under the Code of Criminal Procedure; takes effect immediately with two-thirds legislative vote or September 1, 2025