Relating to the application of foreign laws and foreign forum selection in this state with regard to family law matters.
Impact
If enacted, HB 911 would impose clear limitations on the applicability of foreign laws in Texas family courts, essentially ensuring that any ruling or contract provision must comply with established constitutional guarantees. This change seeks to protect individuals within the family law jurisdiction from potential adverse implications of foreign legal systems, which may not align with U.S. legal standards or rights. Moreover, it aims to foster a legal environment that prioritizes local judicial authority over international contract provisions concerning family law.
Summary
House Bill 911 addresses the application of foreign laws and foreign forum selection specifically concerning family law matters within the state of Texas. The bill introduces Chapter 148 to the Civil Practice and Remedies Code, stipulating that decisions on family law matters cannot rely on foreign laws that conflict with rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution or Texas law. Additionally, it renders any contractual clauses that attempt to impose foreign law or designate foreign forums for resolving family law disputes void if they conflict with constitutional rights.
Contention
Notably, while the bill's proponents argue it is necessary to protect Texas residents from foreign legal influences that may undermine their rights, critics may raise concerns about the implications for contractual freedom and international legal relations. Some may also argue that the categorization of all foreign laws as potentially problematic could hinder fair and just legal recourse for individuals with cross-border family law matters. This tension between protecting state residents and preserving contractual autonomy could fuel debate among legislators and legal experts.
Relating to foreign terrorist organizations, including the compilation of information regarding, certain civil actions brought against, and the prosecution of certain organized crime offenses involving a foreign terrorist organization and of sedition.
Relating to foreign terrorist organizations, including the acquisition of title to real property by, the compilation of information regarding, certain civil actions brought against, and the prosecution of certain organized crime offenses involving a foreign terrorist organization.
Relating to requiring the attorney general to establish a process to identify and report certain foreign-related transactions in this state to the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States.
Relating to the disclosure of certain gifts, grants, contracts, and financial interests received from a foreign source by certain state agencies, public institutions of higher education, and state contractors, and to the approval and monitoring of employment-related foreign travel and activities by certain public institution of higher education employees; providing civil and administrative penalties.