Texas HB1604 mandates public access to criminal proceedings, including livestream or videoconference options for courts without physical access.

Texas HB1604 amends the Code of Criminal Procedure to ensure public access to criminal proceedings. It requires courts to provide information on how the public can access proceedings, including livestream or videoconference options for courts unable to provide in-person access. The law applies to criminal proceedings commencing on or after January 1, 2026. It also allows individuals, including the media and the attorney general, to petition for enforcement of public access rights.

Texas HB1604 mandates public access to criminal proceedings, including livestream or videoconference options for courts without physical access.

Texas HB1604 amends the Code of Criminal Procedure to ensure public access to criminal proceedings. It requires courts to provide information on how the public can access proceedings, including livestream or videoconference options for courts unable to provide in-person access. The law applies to criminal proceedings commencing on or after January 1, 2026. It also allows individuals, including the media and the attorney general, to petition for enforcement of public access rights.