SRC-SLL H.B. 308 75(R)   BILL ANALYSIS


Senate Research Center   H.B. 308
By: Goodman (Wentworth)
Jurisprudence
5-13-97
Engrossed


DIGEST 

In 1995, the legislature changed Section 71.01(b)(1), Family Code, to give
"court" the meaning of district court, court of domestic relations,
juvenile court, or a statutory county court.  This took away the authority
of a constitutional county judge to issue a protective order.  This bill
will redefine "court" in Section 71.002, Family Code, to include a
constitutional county court. 

PURPOSE

As proposed, H.B. 308 redefines "court" in Section 71.002, Family Code, to
include a constitutional county court. 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

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

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1. Amends Section 71.002, Family Code, to redefine "court" to
include a constitutional county court. 

SECTION 2. (a) Effective date: September 1, 1997, except as provided by
Subsection (b) of this section.  Makes application of this Act
prospective. 

(b) Provides that this Act takes effect only if the 75th Legislature, at
its regular session, enacts H.B. 1441 or S.B. 797 and either bill becomes
law.  Provides that if the legislation does not become law, this Act has
no effect. 

SECTION 3. Emergency clause.