Relating to the liability of employees of certain real property owners for certain claims arising from construction activities.
Impact
The effective date of this Act, set for September 1, 2017, implies that any cause of action arising after this date will fall under the new liability standards established by SB621. This creates a significant shift in the landscape of employee liability, potentially reducing the legal risks faced by employees working under property owners in the realm of construction activities. Importantly, the law stipulates that claims accruing before the Act's effective date will continue to be governed by the pre-existing legal framework.
Summary
SB621 relates to the liability of employees working for real property owners regarding claims that arise from construction activities. The bill amends the existing Civil Practice and Remedies Code to redefine 'property owner' to include employees of certain entities involved in commercial real estate. This alteration intends to clarify the legal standing and potential liabilities of employees when engaging in construction work, thereby affecting how claims are handled in such contexts.
Contention
Discussion around SB621 may involve debate regarding the appropriateness of assigning legal definitions and liability to employees in construction claims. Proponents argue that extending liability protections to employees encourages more robust participation in construction activities without the fear of personal liability, which can inhibit workforce engagement in these areas. However, critics might express concerns about the implications for accountability in cases of negligence or misconduct during construction, potentially leading to decreased motivation for best practices in safety and compliance.
Relating to property owner liability for personal injury claims arising from insurance restoration projects in which a contractor or subcontractor does not maintain workers' compensation insurance coverage.