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TX HB4027

Bill

Status

Engrossed

5/10/2025

Primary Sponsor

Erin Zwiener

Click for details

Origin

House of Representatives

89th Legislature Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Allows courts to deny deposition requests against alleged victims of family violence or abusive conduct if clear and convincing evidence shows the petitioner has a history of abuse and the deposition's purpose is to harass, intimidate, or control the victim

  • Requires petitioners seeking depositions of alleged abuse victims to disclose any protective orders or criminal complaints related to abusive conduct against them and provide copies to the court

  • Creates a new motion to dismiss civil proceedings when the defendant alleges they are a victim of family violence or abusive conduct by the plaintiff, with courts required to grant dismissal if abuse history and harassment purpose are proven by clear and convincing evidence

  • Defines "abusive conduct" to include offenses such as human trafficking, continuous sexual abuse of a child, sexual assault, aggravated sexual assault, stalking, and compelling prostitution under the Texas Penal Code

  • Permits courts to award costs and attorney's fees to prevailing victims when deposition petitions are denied or motions to dismiss are granted, with an effective date of September 1, 2025

Legislative Description

Relating to the taking of certain depositions and the dismissal of certain civil actions in connection with allegations of family violence and abusive conduct.

Civil Remedies & Liabilities

Last Action

Referred to State Affairs

5/12/2025

Committee Referrals

State Affairs5/12/2025
Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence3/27/2025

Full Bill Text

No bill text available