BILL ANALYSIS

Senate Research Center	H.B. 1159
87R3971 ANG-F	By: Murr (Creighton)
	Jurisprudence
	5/18/2021
	Engrossed

AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT

In Texas, four major civil case types are filed in justice courts: small claims, debt claims, evictions, and repair and remedy. The legislature enacted a law in 2019 that increased the maximum amount in controversy in civil cases over which justice courts have jurisdiction from $10,000 to $20,000. However, the increase only affected small claims, debt claims, and evictions. H.B. 1159 addresses this issue by increasing the maximum amount that may be awarded by justice courts in repair and remedy cases from $10,000 to $20,000.

H.B. 1159 amends current law relating to the maximum judgment amount awarded by a justice court in certain civil cases regarding the repair of residential rental property.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency.

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1. Amends Section 92.0563(e), Property Code, to prohibit a justice court from awarding a judgment, including an order of repair, that exceeds $20,000, rather than a judgment that exceeds $10,000, excluding interest and costs of court.

SECTION 2. Makes application of Section 92.0563(e), Property Code, as amended by this Act, prospective.

SECTION 3. Effective date: September 1, 2021.