Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas House Bill HB849

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

Caption

Relating to the liability of the state for a violation of the federal Americans with Disabilities Act.

Impact

The enactment of HB849 would have implications on state laws regarding the treatment of individuals with disabilities. By waiving immunity in ADA-related cases, the state could face legal challenges that may lead to modifications in how it operates regarding public services and employment. This change could foster a more inclusive environment for individuals with disabilities by enhancing their legal standing to address grievances against the state. However, it should be noted that the bill still retains specific limitations — for instance, it does not require the state to provide personal care services or accommodations that would impose undue burdens on its operations.

Summary

House Bill 849 addresses the liability of the state for violations of the federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The bill proposes a limited waiver of the sovereign immunity of the state, allowing individuals to sue the state government in both state and federal courts for relief under the ADA. This reflects a significant development in the context of state responsibilities towards individuals with disabilities, specifically in relation to employment discrimination. The bill emphasizes the legal framework needed for individuals to hold the state accountable for potential failures in adhering to ADA requirements.

Contention

Noteworthy points of contention revolve around the limitations imposed on how liability applies under the new chapter proposed by HB849. Critics may argue that such limitations could provide insufficient protection for individuals claiming discrimination. Additionally, there may be concerns regarding financial liabilities the state could incur as a result of increased lawsuits. Advocates for disabilities rights may see the waiver of immunity as a necessary step toward accountability and social justice, while opponents may highlight the potential for an overload of litigation against state entities and the need for financial prudence.

Companion Bills

TX SB1150

Identical Relating to the liability of the state for a violation of the federal Americans with Disabilities Act.

Previously Filed As

TX SB307

Relating to the enforcement within this state of certain federal laws for federally declared public health emergencies.

TX HB211

Relating to the regulation of child-care facilities and registered family homes, including the provision of services to children with disabilities or special needs.

TX SB2256

Relating to the verification of health care practitioner continuing education compliance through the establishment of continuing education tracking systems.

TX SB4

Relating to prohibitions on the illegal entry into or illegal presence in this state by a person who is an alien, the enforcement of those prohibitions and certain related orders, including immunity from liability and indemnification for enforcement actions, and authorizing or requiring under certain circumstances the removal of persons who violate those prohibitions; creating criminal offenses.

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.

TX HB4

Relating to prohibitions on the illegal entry into or illegal presence in this state by a person who is an alien, the enforcement of those prohibitions and certain related orders, including immunity from liability and indemnification for enforcement actions, and authorizing or requiring under certain circumstances the removal of persons who violate those prohibitions; creating criminal offenses.

TX SB298

Relating to informed consent to immunizations for children and civil liability for failure to obtain the consent.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.