Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas House Bill HB762

Caption

Relating to civil liability for removing certain individuals or animals from a motor vehicle.

Impact

The bill provides immunity from civil liability to individuals who forcibly enter a locked vehicle to assist these vulnerable individuals or animals, provided they meet specific conditions outlined in the legislation. These conditions include having a reasonable belief that the individual or animal is in imminent danger, notifying law enforcement before entering the vehicle, and using minimal force necessary for the entry. The intent is to promote prompt action in emergency situations while protecting good Samaritans from potential legal challenges.

Summary

House Bill 762 introduces significant amendments to the Civil Practice and Remedies Code regarding civil liability in situations where an individual seeks to remove vulnerable individuals or domestic animals from a locked motor vehicle. The bill defines 'vulnerable individuals' as children under seven and individuals unable to protect themselves due to various impairments. The premise of the bill is to encourage bystanders to act in emergencies without the fear of facing legal repercussions when their actions are aimed at saving lives or preventing harm.

Contention

Notable contentious points surround the definitions of 'reasonable belief' and the circumstances that justify entry into a motor vehicle. The discussion also addresses whether the law adequately protects citizens while balancing the rights of vehicle owners. Some critics worry that the broad nature of the 'imminent harm' criterion could lead to misuse, allowing individuals to enter vehicles under less serious circumstances than intended. Additionally, there are calls for clear guidelines to ensure uniformity in enforcing this law, given its potential for varied interpretations.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3756

Relating to civil liability for removing certain individuals or animals from a motor vehicle.

TX SB2421

Relating to civil liability for removing certain individuals or animals from a motor vehicle.

TX HB4218

Relating to liability related to a duty to retrofit certain rented or leased motor vehicles with safety devices.

TX HB2636

Relating to liability of a recreational vehicle park or campground entity for injuries arising from certain activities.

TX HB3357

Relating to civil liability for obscenity.

TX HB4897

Relating to civil liability for online impersonation.

TX HB22

Relating to abortion, including civil liability for distribution of abortion-inducing drugs and duties of Internet service providers; creating a criminal offense; authorizing a private civil right of action.

TX HB36

Relating to abortion, including civil liability for distribution of abortion-inducing drugs and duties of Internet service providers; creating a criminal offense; authorizing a private civil right of action.

TX HB2690

Relating to abortion, including civil liability for distribution of abortion-inducing drugs and duties of Internet service providers; creating a criminal offense; authorizing a private civil right of action.

TX HB111

Relating to abortion, including civil liability for distribution of abortion-inducing drugs and duties of Internet service providers; creating a criminal offense; authorizing a private civil right of action.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.