Texas House Bill HB2591

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the removal of certain unconstitutional provisions from real property records.

Impact

If enacted, HB2591 could significantly alter how property records are maintained and corrected in Texas. The bill provides a pathway for individuals to challenge and remove outdated, discriminatory legal language that may have been recorded in property documents without consideration of its constitutionality. By facilitating this process, the legislation aims to enhance the integrity and accuracy of real property records and reduce the legal burden on property owners who encounter such discrepancies.

Summary

House Bill 2591 seeks to amend the Texas Property Code by introducing a new section that allows property owners to petition for the removal of provisions from recorded property instruments that are deemed unconstitutional. Specifically, it targets clauses that violate the United States Constitution, are unenforceable under existing laws, or are overtly discriminatory. This bill asserts that property owners can take legal action to cleanse their property records of discriminatory language or provisions that lack legal standing, thereby promoting justice and reducing historical injustices found within property documentation.

Contention

Potential points of contention surrounding HB2591 may revolve around concerns about the implications for existing property rights and the potential for abuse of the petition process. Opponents might argue that the introduction of this measure could lead to a flood of petitions, overwhelming the court system and possibly infringing on the rights of other property owners who may rely on the validity of existing provisions. Furthermore, there may be debates regarding which provisions truly qualify as 'unconstitutional' or 'discriminatory' and if the judicial system is equipped to address these claims fairly and expediently.