Bill

SB 247

87(R) - 2021
Senate State Affairs
Senate State Affairs
Courts
Lawyers
Occupational Licensing

Companion Bill

HB 3940

Contact the Author

Charles Perry

Phone:

512-463-0128

Capitol Office:

E1.806

Email:

Vote Recommendation

Yes
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Positive
  • Positive

Author(s)

Charles Perry

Co-Author(s)

Bob Hall

Bill Caption

Relating to discrimination against or burdening certain constitutional rights of an applicant for or holder of a license to practice law in this state.

Fiscal Notes

No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.

Bill Analysis

SB 247 would prohibit the State Bar of Texas from adopting any rules or policy that would limit an applicant for a license to practice law in Texas from obtaining a license because of sincerely held religious beliefs or limit an applicant or bar member from their free exercise of religious beliefs, freedom of speech, membership of a religious organization, or freedom of association.  A person may assert this as a defense in an administrative hearing, claim, or judicial hearing. 

Vote Recommendation Notes

SB 247 would strengthen the protection of religious liberty for members and prospective members of the State Bar of Texas. Even attorneys should enjoy religious liberty, their choice of profession notwithstanding. Texas Action supports this SB 247.

Contact the Author

Charles Perry

Phone:

512-463-0128

Capitol Office:

E1.806

Email: