Relating to the consideration of a subsequent writ of habeas corpus in certain felony cases.

HB 1291 modifies Texas law regarding second legal challenges (subsequent habeas corpus applications) for felony convictions. It restricts courts from reviewing these second applications unless the applicant shows: new facts or legal arguments weren't available in the first challenge, a constitutional violation likely changed the verdict, or the state prosecutor agrees in writing. The bill applies only to applications filed on or after September 1, 2025, leaving prior cases governed by older rules. This directly affects felony defendants seeking post-conviction relief after an initial habeas application has been decided.