Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB809

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the execution of a waiver of citation by digitized signature in a suit for the dissolution of a marriage.

Impact

The proposed changes in HB 809 would update existing requirements for notarization and signatures in legal proceedings involving family law. Effective as of September 1, 2025, the legislation intends to ensure that statutory requirements can be satisfied with modern technology. By incorporating digitized signatures into the process, it potentially reduces the need for in-person appearances and physical documentation, streamlining the legal process related to marital dissolution.

Summary

House Bill 809 is proposed legislation that aims to amend certain sections of the Family Code and Government Code regarding the execution of waivers of citation in marriage dissolution suits. The bill specifically allows for waivers of citation to be signed using digitized signatures. This change seeks to modernize the processes involved in marriage dissolution proceedings, making them more accessible and efficient for parties involved in such cases.

Contention

While the bill is generally geared towards modernization and accessibility, there may be concerns among certain stakeholders, particularly regarding issues of security and authenticity of digitized signatures. Critics might argue that while digitized signatures provide convenience, they could also introduce risks related to identity verification and the integrity of consent in legal matters, especially in sensitive family law contexts. As such, discussions around HB 809 may involve weighing the benefits of technological advancement against the necessity for safeguarding legal processes.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Family Code

  • Chapter 6. Suit For Dissolution Of Marriage
    • Section: 4035

Government Code

  • Chapter 406. Notary Public; Commissioner Of Deeds
    • Section: 026

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.