Texas Senate Bill SB1650

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 3/31/09
• Voted on by Senate: 4/9/09
• Out of House Committee: 5/21/09
• Voted on by House: 5/27/09
• Governor Action: 6/19/09
• Enrolled: 5/28/09
• Passed: 6/19/09

Caption

Relating to appeals in cases arising under the Federal Arbitration Act.

Impact

The enactment of this bill, effective from September 1, 2009, impacts how appeals from state courts are handled concerning arbitration agreements governed by federal law. By mirroring federal procedures, the bill aims to enhance consistency in the legal treatment of arbitration-related cases, providing a clearer pathway for appeals. It applies to both actions filed after its effective date and those pending at that time, with specific provisions to ensure that ongoing appeals are treated according to the law at the time they were initiated.

Summary

SB1650, introduced in Texas, pertains to appeals arising under the Federal Arbitration Act (FAA). The bill amends the Civil Practice and Remedies Code to allow individuals to appeal judgments or interlocutory orders related to the FAA, specifically stating that appeals to the court of appeals can be made in the same manner as those from federal district courts. This aligns state appeal processes more closely with federal regulations, thereby streamlining legal remedies for arbitration cases within Texas jurisdiction.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB1650 stem from the implications of aligning state appeals with federal standards, particularly concerning the autonomy of state court decisions in arbitration matters. Proponents argue that the bill facilitates a more efficient legal process, while critics may express concern that it could diminish the distinctive legal context of Texas arbitration cases, by adhering strictly to federal norms. Further discussions might address the potential challenges and nuances within the scope of this alignment.