Texas House Bill HB1926

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to claims for financial assistance for survivors of certain public employees killed in the line of duty.

Impact

The introduction of HB 1926 is expected to streamline the process for survivors to receive financial assistance by clearly outlining the responsibilities of employers. By mandating that employers submit proof of death and any required evidence promptly, the bill attempts to create a more efficient system for disbursing benefits. This could also alleviate the administrative burden on the surviving family members who may otherwise face challenges navigating the requirements for assistance following a tragedy.

Summary

House Bill 1926 seeks to amend the Government Code regarding claims for financial assistance for the survivors of certain public employees who are killed in the line of duty. The bill specifies that when a public employee dies while performing their duties, their employing entity is required to provide proof of death to the Employees Retirement System of Texas. This provision aims to ensure that survivors receive the necessary financial assistance without unnecessary delays or complications.

Contention

While the bill appears to serve the important purpose of aiding survivors, there could be some concerns regarding the enforcement of employer compliance. Section 615.041 includes a provision allowing the attorney general to compel compliance if an employer fails to adhere to the requirements of the statute. This could raise questions about the potential for legal disputes between employers and the government, as well as the broader implications for employer liability.

Notable points

The bill takes effect on September 1, 2019, and applies to deaths occurring on or after that date while preserving the applicability of previous laws for earlier incidents. This dual applicability ensures that there is no disruption in the support available to survivors, although it may require ongoing adjustments within the legal and administrative frameworks governing such claims.