Bill: HB 1704, 85(R) - 2017
Committee
House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence
Vote Recommendation
| Vote Recommendation |
Economic Freedom |
Property Rights |
Personal Responsibility |
Limited Government |
Individual Liberty |
| Yes |
Neutral |
Neutral |
Neutral |
Neutral |
Positive |
Author(s)
John Kuempel
Bill Caption
Relating to the award of court costs and attorney's fees in actions to determine the applicability of certain local government regulations.
Fiscal Notes
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
Bill Analysis
This bill would modify the chapter pertaining to the issuance of permits for land use, structures, businesses and other activities related to water or wastewater utilities. If this bill passes, and if there is a suit related to the regulatory authority of political subdivisions to issue certain permits, a court would be allowed to award court costs and reasonable and necessary attorney’s fee to a prevailing party.
Vote Recommendation Notes
If someone has been wronged or injured due to regulatory authorities, it is in the best interest of justice for those individuals to be awarded costs to cover their expenses. This bill upholds our commitment to individual liberty by ensuring that individuals may live their life to the best of their ability with as little government interference, regulation, and coercion as possible. For this reason we support this bill.
Organizations Supporting
Texans for Lawsuit Reform
Texas Apartment Association
Texas Association of Builders
Texas Association of Realtors
Texas Manufactured Housing Association
Texas Trial Lawyers Association
Organizations Opposed
Texas Municipal League
