Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Texas House Bill HB2759

Filed
3/9/11  
Out of House Committee
4/14/11  
Voted on by House
5/11/11  
Refer
3/16/11  
Out of Senate Committee
5/17/11  
Report Pass
4/11/11  
Voted on by Senate
5/19/11  
Engrossed
5/11/11  
Governor Action
6/17/11  
Bill Becomes Law
 
Enrolled
5/20/11  
Enrolled
5/20/11  
Passed
6/17/11  

Caption

Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of provisions of the Texas Probate Code relating to durable powers of attorney, guardianships, and other related proceedings and alternatives, and the redesignation of certain other provisions of the Texas Probate Code, including conforming amendments and repeals.

Impact

The implications of HB 2759 on state laws are significant as it updates and revises outdated statutes within the Texas Probate Code. This bill aims to ensure that individuals who may be incapacitated or require guardianship are afforded the legal protections and frameworks necessary for their care and management of their affairs. Furthermore, the revisions will affect the application process for guardianships and the duties of appointed guardians, making processes more uniform and efficient across the state.

Summary

House Bill 2759 focuses on the nonsubstantive revision of provisions within the Texas Probate Code, specifically addressing durable powers of attorney, guardianships, and related proceedings. The bill is designed to streamline and clarify existing laws, effectively consolidating several provisions to enhance readability and accessibility for legal practitioners and the public. By reorganizing the language and structure of the statutes, the bill aims to reduce confusion and errors in the interpretation of laws concerning these critical areas of estate and disability management.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2759 appears generally supportive among legal professionals and advocates for the elderly and incapacitated individuals. Many view these revisions as a positive step towards more comprehensive and clear guidelines that reflect current societal needs and technological advancements in legal practices. However, there may be concerns regarding the potential for misinterpretation of the terms and conditions set forth, particularly regarding the powers and limitations granted under durable powers of attorney.

Contention

Notably, points of contention regarding the bill center around the balance of power between individuals designated as agents under a durable power of attorney and the safeguards established for those who may be vulnerable due to incapacity. Critics may express concern that while the revisions aim to simplify the provisions, there may be unintended consequences that could weaken protections or create loopholes that exploit individuals during vulnerable periods of their lives. Thus, the ongoing discourse will likely focus on ensuring that while legal clarity is achieved, the fundamental protections needed for vulnerable populations are not compromised.

Companion Bills

TX SB1299

Identical Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of provisions of the Texas Probate Code relating to durable powers of attorney, guardianships, and other related proceedings and alternatives, and the redesignation of certain other provisions of the Texas Probate Code, including conforming amendments and repeals.

Similar Bills

TX SB1299

Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of provisions of the Texas Probate Code relating to durable powers of attorney, guardianships, and other related proceedings and alternatives, and the redesignation of certain other provisions of the Texas Probate Code, including conforming amendments and repeals.

TX SB626

Relating to guardianships, management trusts, and certain other procedures and proceedings for persons who are incapacitated, probate matters and proceedings, and other matters involving statutory county courts, including statutory probate courts.

TX SB667

Relating to probate and guardianship matters and certain procedures for persons who are incapacitated or have a mental illness.

TX HB2178

Relating to guardianships, management trusts, and certain other procedures and proceedings for persons who are incapacitated.

TX HB3543

Relating to guardianships, management trusts, and certain other procedures and proceedings for persons who are incapacitated.

TX SB39

Relating to estates and to guardianships, substitutes for guardianships, and durable powers of attorney for persons with disabilities or who are incapacitated.

TX SB1426

Relating to the establishment by a county of public guardians for certain incapacitated persons and funding for guardianships by public guardians and related services.

TX HB2080

Relating to guardianships, including the assessment and payment of attorney's fees and other court costs in guardianships, and to court-created management trusts for persons who have physical disabilities or who are incapacitated; changing the amount of a fee and requiring the collection of a fee.