Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1970

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

Caption

Relating to access to certain cemeteries.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1970 would influence state laws regarding property use and access rights related to cemeteries. The bill proposes to amend existing statutes to eliminate ambiguity surrounding such access, potentially setting precedents that could affect how similar public spaces are regulated in the future. The intent is to promote better awareness and understanding of burial rights, ensuring that communities are able to uphold the sanctity of their cemeteries without facing obstacles that could arise from unclear regulations or differing local practices.

Summary

House Bill 1970 addresses the access rights to specific cemeteries, aiming to enhance the rights of individuals seeking access to such sites. The bill is designed to clarify existing regulations and ensure that individuals can visit and utilize these burial spaces without undue restrictions. This legislation seeks to provide clear guidelines on who can access these cemeteries and under what conditions, therefore streamlining the process for families and individuals wishing to honor their loved ones across the state.

Contention

While the bill appears to have the support of various advocacy groups focused on cemetery access, some concerns have been raised about the implications of changing access rights. Critics worry that the amendments proposed in HB 1970 could inadvertently open doors to conflicts over property rights, especially where private land adjacent to cemeteries is concerned. The balance between preserving local control over cemetery management and ensuring equitable access is a focal point of the discussions surrounding this bill. Stakeholders have expressed the need for careful discussions to ensure all affected parties' perspectives are taken into account before significant legal changes are made.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Health And Safety Code

  • Chapter 711. General Provisions Relating To Cemeteries
    • Section: 041

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.