Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB2690

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

Caption

Relating to governmental restrictions on the right to earn a living.

Impact

The potential impact of HB2690 on state laws includes revisions to how governmental agencies approach occupational licensing and regulatory measures. It introduces a framework where the burden would be on the agency to justify any restrictions imposed on individuals wishing to work in a particular field. This could lead to fewer barriers for entry into various professions, including those currently regulated by extensive licensing requirements. If enacted, it could challenge existing laws that are perceived as overly restrictive and bolster economic opportunities for many residents.

Summary

House Bill 2690 aims to limit governmental restrictions on individuals' right to earn a living. The bill establishes that governmental agencies and public officials cannot impose any law or measure that burdens this right without demonstrating that such restrictions are necessary for public health, safety, or welfare and are the least restrictive means of furthering that interest. This legislation is intended to provide more protection to individuals engaging in various occupations by ensuring that restrictions cannot be unjustly applied without a compelling justification.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB2690 appears to be mixed, with supporters advocating for individual freedom and reduced governmental intervention in the workforce. Proponents believe that the bill will promote entrepreneurship and economic diversity by lowering the barriers to entry for various occupations. Conversely, critics express concern that such legislation could undermine important safety and regulatory measures designed to protect the public and ensure fair competition in the marketplace. This dichotomy highlights the ongoing debate between economic freedom and regulatory oversight.

Contention

A significant point of contention regarding HB2690 is the balance between protecting individuals' rights to work and maintaining necessary regulations that ensure public welfare and safety. Critics fear that if the bill is enacted, it may ultimately lead to a deregulation of essential health and safety standards, especially in industries that require certifications or licenses to operate. Supporters counter that the bill includes provisions to safeguard public interests and that any restrictions must be carefully justified, ensuring that the public will not be jeopardized without rational grounds for such actions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB925

Relating to firearms; authorizing a private civil right of action.

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 SB1421

Relating to the effect of nuisance actions, other actions, and governmental requirements on certain agricultural operations.

TX HB4841

Relating to the prohibition on COVID-19 restrictions, with exceptions.

TX HB2843

Relating to the authorization, licensing, and regulation of casino gaming and sports wagering in this state, to the creation, powers, and duties of the Texas Gaming Commission, to the support of the horse racing industry and reform of horse racing and greyhound racing, and to other provisions related to gambling; imposing and authorizing administrative and civil penalties; imposing taxes; imposing and authorizing fees; requiring occupational licenses; creating criminal offenses.

TX HB3714

Relating to limitations on the enforcement of certain occupational regulations.

TX SB1014

Relating to restrictions on the use and disclosure of certain genetic material and genetic information; providing a civil penalty; creating a criminal offense.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.