Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB801

Filed
2/9/23  
Out of Senate Committee
3/13/23  
Voted on by Senate
3/16/23  
Out of House Committee
5/5/23  
Voted on by House
5/12/23  
Governor Action
6/2/23  

Caption

Relating to an instrument that names a trust as a party.

Impact

The enactment of SB801 will positively impact estate planning and property transactions in Texas. It is aimed at reducing the number of legal disputes arising from the improper naming of trusts in property documents. By explicitly stating that the trustee is the party to the instrument unless designated otherwise, the bill safeguards the intent of the parties involved in property transactions, thus streamlining processes related to trust conveyance. This legal clarification is expected to help both legal practitioners and citizens, ultimately enhancing the administration of trust law in Texas.

Summary

Senate Bill 801 addresses the legal framework governing the conveyance of real property in Texas, specifically focusing on situations where property is mistakenly conveyed to a trust rather than to the trustee. The bill clarifies that, for legal purposes, the trustee will be considered the named party to any instrument naming the trust as a party. This reform is intended to correct common drafting errors that lead to the voidance of conveyances due to improper naming, thereby providing clarity in legal proceedings involving trusts.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB801 appears to be overwhelmingly positive, with strong support from legal professionals and organizations such as the Texas Land Title Association. The bill is seen as a necessary cleanup measure that addresses legitimate concerns in property transactions. As expressed during committee discussions, many stakeholders view the bill not as a contentious issue, but rather as a straightforward improvement to existing law that protects the interests of all Texans involved in property conveyances.

Contention

While SB801 is largely uncontroversial, it highlights the broader complexity of trust law and the importance of precise language in legal documents. Some might argue about the degree of necessary regulation concerning trusts as legal entities. However, the bill aims to balance the intent of trust owners with the need for clarity and legal accuracy in property conveyances, thus avoiding potential future conflicts stemming from naming errors.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Property Code

  • Chapter 114. Liabilities, Rights, And Remedies Of Trustees, Beneficiaries, And Third Persons
    • Section: 087
    • Section: 087
    • Section: 087
    • Section: 087
    • Section: 087
  • Chapter 5. Conveyances
    • Section: 028
    • Section: 028
    • Section: 028
    • Section: 028
    • Section: 028

Companion Bills

TX HB4281

Identical Relating to an instrument that names a trust as a party.

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