Texas House Bill HB2904

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to dismissal of certain actions for an asbestos-related or silica-related injury.

Impact

The impact of HB 2904 is significant in the context of Texas law, particularly the Civil Practice and Remedies Code. By setting a cut-off date for the dismissal of long-standing cases, the legislation may alleviate some pressures on courts while also providing certainty for defendants. Critics, however, may argue that this could potentially deny deserving claimants the right to a remedy if they cannot meet the new reporting requirements.

Summary

House Bill 2904 addresses the dismissal of certain legal actions related to asbestos and silica injuries. Specifically, it mandates that any action pending for these conditions prior to August 31, 2005, must be dismissed unless specific reporting requirements are met. This bill aims to streamline the legal process surrounding asbestos and silica-related injuries by establishing more definitive timelines for action dismissal, which supporters argue will reduce the backlog of pending cases and encourage resolution for parties involved.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 2904 include concerns about fairness for plaintiffs who may have valid claims but face challenges complying with the specified reporting regulations. Critics of the bill might highlight that it imposes stringent requirements that could disadvantage those who are unaware of the new criteria or who have difficulty meeting them due to various personal or legal challenges. Ultimately, the debate surrounding this bill reflects broader tensions between legal reform aimed at efficiency and the interests of individuals seeking justice for legitimate injuries.