Texas Senate Bill SB472

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to procedures for asserting taking claims arising from the enforcement of health and safety laws.

Impact

The bill is expected to influence state laws by clarifying the definitions and procedures related to taking claims. It ensures that claimants provide sufficient notice and expert testimony before proceeding with claims, thereby potentially reducing the number of lawsuits against governmental bodies over health and safety enforcement actions. This new requirement could lead to more rigorous preparation on the part of claimants, ensuring that only substantiated claims proceed through the court system. Additionally, it enhances clarity around what constitutes a taking, which could lead to greater consistency and predictability in legal outcomes.

Summary

SB472 introduces significant changes to the procedures used in Texas for asserting taking claims that arise from the enforcement of health and safety laws. The bill adds a new chapter to the Civil Practice and Remedies Code that defines processes for claimants—individuals or entities seeking to recover damages or seek injunctive relief. A central component of this bill is the requirement for claimants to serve an expert report detailing the nature and extent of the taking claim, along with certain compliance measures designed to streamline the process while reducing frivolous claims against governmental entities.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB472 appears to be mixed, with supporters likely highlighting the bill's potential to protect governmental entities from unjustified claims while ensuring a framework that allows valid claims to proceed efficiently. However, concerns may also exist regarding how these provisions could restrict access to legal relief for individuals adversely affected by government enforcement actions, particularly pertaining to economic damages. This dichotomy in sentiment reflects broader tensions between regulatory oversight aimed at protecting public safety and individual rights to seek redress through the courts.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance of power between state and local governance regarding health and safety enforcement. Opponents of the bill may argue that such stringent requirements for proving taking claims could hinder individuals’ ability to contest governmental actions that they perceive as unfair or detrimental. The necessity of expert reports could pose barriers for some claimants, particularly those without adequate resources to obtain professional opinions. Ultimately, the bill sets a framework that may reshape interactions between governmental entities and affected parties in the context of property rights and health and safety regulations.