Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas House Bill HB899

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

Caption

Relating to the application of foreign laws and foreign forum selection in certain family law proceedings.

Impact

By implementing these regulations, HB 899 is expected to impact the legal landscape significantly. Courts and arbitrators in Texas would no longer be able to enforce foreign judgments or apply foreign laws that might jeopardize constitutional rights. This change aims to protect the rights of Texas residents in family law proceedings, ensuring that their cases are adjudicated with due regard for the rights granted under U.S. law. This measure could potentially influence how Texas handles international divorce and custody cases.

Summary

House Bill 899 aims to address the application of foreign laws and forum selection in family law cases in Texas. Specifically, the bill prohibits Texas tribunals from applying foreign law to marriage dissolution and parent-child relationship cases if that law does not guarantee the same fundamental rights as those ensured by the United States Constitution. The bill introduces definitions related to foreign law, foreign tribunals, and arbitration, thereby establishing a clear framework for their application in family law matters.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 899 include concerns regarding its implications for international marriages and the rights of spouses from countries with vastly different legal frameworks. Critics of the bill may argue that it could impede individuals' rights to choose how to resolve their disputes or seek justice in their native legal systems. Furthermore, some advocates express concern that the bill may not account for cultural considerations that might affect family law cases involving foreign nationals or residents.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1546

Relating to the recovery of fees, court costs, and expenses in family law proceedings.

TX HB4337

Relating to licenses and similar documents issued by certain foreign governments.

TX HB124

Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain aliens or foreign entities.

TX HB50

Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain aliens or foreign entities.

TX SB51

Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain aliens or foreign entities.

TX SB38

Relating to the purchase of or acquisition of title to real property by certain aliens or foreign entities.

TX HB1075

Relating to certain property interests of a foreign government in agricultural land.

TX HB93

Relating to certain property interests of a foreign government in agricultural land.

TX SB1900

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.

TX HB4

Relating to the creation of the criminal offense of improper entry from a foreign nation and indemnification of certain claims relating to the enforcement of that offense.

Similar Bills

TX SB1639

Relating to the application of foreign laws and foreign forum selection in certain family law proceedings.

TX SB531

Relating to the application of foreign laws and foreign forum selection in a proceeding involving marriage, a suit for dissolution of a marriage, or a suit affecting the parent-child relationship in this state.

TX HB562

Relating to the application of foreign laws and foreign forum selection in a proceeding involving marriage, a suit for dissolution of a marriage, or a suit affecting the parent-child relationship in this state.

TX HB498

Relating to the application of foreign laws and foreign forum selection in a proceeding involving marriage, a suit for dissolution of a marriage, or a suit affecting the parent-child relationship in this state.

CA SCA10

Reproductive freedom.

CA ACA5

Marriage equality.

SC H4036

SC, "First in Religious Liberty Day"

SC S0333

SC, "First in Religious Liberty Day"