Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1719

Filed
2/27/25  
Out of Senate Committee
3/31/25  
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the rulemaking power of the Texas Supreme Court.

Impact

The impact of SB 1719 is significant as it would streamline the rulemaking authority of the Texas Supreme Court, potentially leading to more uniformity across civil procedures. By negating previous laws that conflict with newly established rules, the bill intends to eliminate legal ambiguities and discrepancies within the civil justice system. The transition to this new framework could bring about a more efficient judicial process, as it would limit the variances in civil procedures that currently exist across jurisdictions in Texas.

Summary

Senate Bill 1719 is a legislative proposal that aims to amend the rulemaking power of the Texas Supreme Court, specifically concerning civil actions. The bill seeks to provide the Supreme Court with full authority to establish rules governing practice and procedure in civil matters, which would effectively repeal any conflicting laws that existed prior to May 15, 1939. This proposal modifies the existing governmental code framework to clarify and centralize the court's rulemaking jurisdiction over civil actions, while ensuring that substantive laws remain intact.

Sentiment

Discussions around SB 1719 have shown a predominantly positive sentiment towards the bill among legal professionals and some legislators who view it as a necessary update to the power dynamics within the state's legal framework. Advocates argue that giving the Supreme Court this authority will lead to greater legal clarity and improve the administration of justice. However, there are also concerns among critics who worry that centralizing rulemaking could diminish legislative oversight, potentially sidelining critical checks and balances on the court's powers.

Contention

Key points of contention regarding SB 1719 include the concerns over judicial overreach and the implications for local governance and legislative authority. Critics argue that the bill's modifications could lead to the Supreme Court exerting excessive control over civil procedures, limiting the ability of state lawmakers to influence civil law. Opponents stress the importance of maintaining a separation of powers that allows for legislative input into judicial processes, interpreting the changes as a significant shift that may inadvertently undermine the legislative branch's role.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Occupations Code

  • Chapter 455. Massage Therapy
    • Section: 351
    • Section: 351
    • Section: 351
    • Section: 351

Family Code

  • Chapter 111. Guidelines For Possession And Child Support
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 301. Discovery Procedures For Civil Actions
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section

Finance Code

  • Chapter 276. Financial Institution Accounts
    • Section: 002
    • Section: 002

Government Code

  • Chapter 74. Court Administration Act
    • Section: 1625
    • Section: 1625
  • Chapter 22. Appellate Courts
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 52. Court Reporters And Shorthand Reporting Firms
    • Section: 047
    • Section: 047

Labor Code

  • Chapter 410. Adjudication Of Disputes
    • Section: 305
    • Section: 305

Civil Practice And Remedies Code

  • Chapter 30. Miscellaneous Provisions
    • Section: 0035
    • Section: 0035
    • Section: 0035
  • Chapter 34. Execution On Judgments
    • Section: 041
    • Section: 041
    • Section: 041

Estates Code

  • Chapter 1162. Tax-motivated, Charitable, Nonprofit, And Other Gifts
    • Section: 007
    • Section: 007
    • Section: 007

Health And Safety Code

  • Chapter 171. Abortion
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.