TX SB343

Abolishes the death penalty in Texas, replacing it with life imprisonment without parole for individuals convicted of capital felonies who were 18 years of age or older at the time of the offense

Establishes life imprisonment with the possibility of parole for individuals who committed capital felonies when younger than 18 years of age

Removes all procedural requirements specific to death penalty cases, including special jury selection procedures, the requirement for 15 peremptory challenges in capital cases, and provisions for alternate jurors in death penalty trials

Repeals multiple Code of Criminal Procedure articles related to death penalty sentencing procedures (Articles 37.071, 37.0711, 37.072) and related provisions governing capital case proceedings

Applies to all criminal actions pending, on appeal, or commenced on or after the effective date, but does not affect final convictions that exist before the effective date; takes effect immediately with two-thirds legislative approval or September 1, 2025