Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas House Bill HB3820

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

Caption

Relating to an unsworn declaration made by an employee of a state agency or political subdivision in the performance of the employee's job duties.

Impact

The impact of HB 3820 would be evident in the legal procedures governing the submission of unsworn declarations by government employees. By instituting a clear and defined format for these declarations, the bill aims to reduce confusion and potential legal challenges that could arise from improperly formatted documents. This change would potentially streamline processes within state agencies and ensure consistency across different governmental units, thus promoting better compliance and accountability in their operations.

Summary

House Bill 3820 seeks to amend Section 132.001 of the Civil Practice and Remedies Code, specifically regarding the stipulations surrounding unsworn declarations made by employees of state agencies or political subdivisions. The bill establishes a standardized jurat format for these unsworn declarations, ensuring that declarations made in the performance of job duties by government employees contain specific identifying information and a declaration of truth under penalty of perjury. This aims to enhance the integrity of such declarations by formalizing the requirements for their execution.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB 3820 appears to be positive, particularly among those advocating for clearer legal standards and practices within state operations. Supporters of the bill argue that enhancing the requirements for unsworn declarations will promote a higher degree of honesty and accountability among public employees. However, there may also be voices of caution regarding the implementation of these new standards, emphasizing the need for adequate training and resources to ensure proper adherence to the revised requirements.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise surrounding the practicality of the new jurat format and the extent to which it could be perceived as an additional burden on public employees. Some stakeholders may express concerns about the efficiency of state operations if employees are required to adapt to new procedural protocols. Additionally, discussions may focus on the balance between enhancing legal standards and ensuring that such requirements do not hinder the effective functioning of state agencies, especially in time-sensitive situations.

Companion Bills

TX SB251

Identical Relating to an unsworn declaration made by an employee of a state agency or political subdivision in the performance of the employee's job duties.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1467

Relating to drug testing and prescription drug policies and certain legal protections for employees and independent contractors of state agencies and political subdivisions and for other persons regarding the medical use of low-THC cannabis and hemp.

TX HB1738

Relating to severance pay for political subdivision employees and independent contractors.

TX SB1422

Relating to enforcement of criminal offenses by state agencies, law enforcement agencies, political subdivisions, or local entities.

TX HB1476

Relating to a limitation on the salary paid to officers and employees of this state and political subdivisions of this state.

TX SB1621

Relating to requiring state contractors, political subdivisions of this state, and private employers to participate in the federal electronic verification of employment authorization program, or E-verify.

TX HB3846

Relating to requiring state contractors, political subdivisions of this state, and private employers to participate in the federal electronic verification of employment authorization program, or E-verify.

TX HB4559

Relating to the application of statutes that classify political subdivisions according to population.

TX HB5222

Relating to consent to the creation of certain political subdivisions.

TX SB2349

Relating to consent to the creation of certain political subdivisions.

TX SB2471

Relating to certain claims for benefits, compensation, or assistance by certain public safety employees and survivors of certain public safety employees.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.