Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas House Bill HB2719

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

Caption

Relating to a limited waiver of sovereign immunity for state and local governmental entities in certain employment lawsuits filed by nurses.

Impact

The introduction of HB2719 could significantly alter the landscape for nurses working in state and local government hospitals. By waiving sovereign immunity for certain employment-related lawsuits, the bill would empower nurses to hold their employers accountable for any violations adequately. This change would ensure that nurses have a legal avenue for recourse if they experience violations in their employment, potentially improving working conditions and employer accountability.

Summary

House Bill 2719 aims to provide a limited waiver of sovereign immunity for state and local governmental entities in Texas, specifically addressing employment lawsuits filed by nurses. The bill allows nurses employed by hospitals operated by state or local governments to sue these entities for specific violations of regulations regarding their employment. This provision is designed to enable nurses to seek relief in state court, where previously their ability to sue such entities was restricted due to the doctrine of sovereign immunity, which protects government entities from being sued without their consent.

Contention

While the bill has gained support from nursing associations and advocates for healthcare employees, it may face opposition from governmental entities concerned about the implications of increased lawsuits. Critics might argue that allowing such lawsuits could lead to more litigation against already resource-constrained public entities, adding to their financial burdens. Additionally, the limited nature of this waiver, confined to specific employment-related complaints, may still leave other areas of concern unaddressed, raising questions about comprehensive protections for nurses in the public sector.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB384

Relating to the Texas Sovereignty Act.

TX SB313

Relating to the Texas Sovereignty Act.

TX HB2470

Relating to prohibited adverse employment action against certain first responders based on mental illness.

TX SB1753

Relating to the prohibition of certain public health mandates by governmental entities and businesses in this state.

TX SB2090

Relating to prohibited adverse employment action against certain first responders based on post-traumatic stress disorder.

TX SB1659

Relating to the sunset review process and certain governmental entities subject to that process.

TX HB144

Relating to the implementation of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives by certain governmental entities.

TX HB14

Relating to the implementation of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives by certain governmental entities.

TX HJR84

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas to conduct gaming by executing a gaming compact with this state; providing for occupational licensing under the compact; limiting certain taxes and fees.

TX SJR30

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas to conduct gaming by executing a gaming compact with this state; providing for occupational licensing under the compact; limiting certain taxes and fees.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.