Texas House Bill HB2710

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the employment of an attorney by the Texas Funeral Service Commission.

Impact

The bill carries significant implications for how legal representation is managed within the Texas Funeral Service Commission. By repealing Section 651.060(b) of the Occupations Code, the commission gains autonomy to make decisions regarding its legal counsel without needing to adhere to prescriptive state regulations. This legislative change is expected to lead to more effective governance and oversight in the funeral industry, as the commission can respond more promptly to legal challenges or inquiries by employing qualified attorneys.

Summary

House Bill 2710 concerns the employment of an attorney by the Texas Funeral Service Commission. It aims to repeal existing restrictions related to the employment of legal staff within the commission, allowing for greater flexibility in hiring practices. This change is intended to enhance the commission's ability to effectively manage legal matters, ensuring that it can secure adequate legal representation as needed in the performance of its duties. The bill asserts that having the capacity to hire attorneys directly can help streamline operations and improve the regulatory framework for funeral services in Texas.

Contention

While the bill appears to have garnered support, potential points of contention might revolve around the implications of allowing a state commission more discretion in hiring legal counsel. Critics might raise concerns about transparency and oversight in the hiring process, arguing that removing checks and balances can lead to mismanagement or the employment of outside legal counsel that may not align with public interests. Additionally, there may be discussions about the funding implications of these employment practices and how they affect the commission's budget and the services provided to the public.