SRC-DPW H.B. 1507 76(R)   BILL ANALYSIS


Senate Research Center   H.B. 1507
By: Wolens (Duncan)
Jurisprudence
4/23/1999
Engrossed


DIGEST 

Currently, Texas law prohibits the unauthorized practice of law.  A federal
court in Dallas has held that the sale of a software product constituted
the unauthorized practice of law, as defined in the Government Code.  This
bill would define the practice of law. 

PURPOSE

As proposed, H.B. 1507 defines the practice of law.

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 81.101, Government Code, by adding Subsection
(c), to define "practice of law."  Provides that this subsection does not
authorize the use of products or similar media, defined in "practice of
law," in violation of Chapter 83 and does not affect the applicability or
enforceability of that chapter. 

SECTION 2.Emergency clause.
  Effective date: upon passage.