Texas House Bill HB606

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 11/12/24

Caption

Relating to de novo review and interpretation of state laws and state agency rules by reviewing court judges and administrative law judges.

Impact

If passed, HB606 would amend the Government Code by implementing a clear directive for judges to interpret laws de novo, meaning from the beginning without relying on previous interpretations by agencies. This could fundamentally alter how legal disputes involving state laws are resolved, potentially increasing the authority of courts in reviewing agency actions and interpretations. Moreover, it intends to create a clearer path for resolving ambiguities in state law that traditionally favored state agency authority.

Summary

House Bill 606 aims to establish a framework for the de novo review and interpretation of state laws and agency rules by judges in reviewing courts and administrative law judges. The bill emphasizes that judges should interpret state provisions without deferring to the interpretations provided by state agencies. This shift aims to enhance judicial independence and ensure that state agencies do not have undue influence over legal interpretations of state laws.

Contention

The most notable points of contention surrounding HB606 involve concerns regarding the balance of power between the judiciary and state agencies. Proponents argue that the bill will safeguard against potential overreach by state agencies, allowing for fairer judicial reviews. However, critics warn that this could lead to inconsistencies in the application of state law and may overwhelm courts with an influx of cases that were previously managed at the agency level. This tension encapsulates the ongoing debate about the role of state agencies versus the judiciary in interpreting state legislation.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

• Chapter 21. General Provisions
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 2003. State Office Of Administrative Hearings
  • Section: New Section