HBA-KMH S.B. 1150 76(R)    BILL ANALYSIS


Office of House Bill AnalysisS.B. 1150
By: Wentworth
Judicial Affairs
5/5/1999
Engrossed


BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Currently, some statutory county courts have attempted to alter the current
probate system by giving themselves probate jurisdiction without converting
the court into a statutory probate court.  These courts lack the
specialized staff needed to handle probate cases effectively.  S.B. 1150
redefines statutory county court, modifies  provisions regarding statutory
county court jurisdiction, and modifies the jurisdiction of the county
court at law for Nueces County. 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the opinion of the Office of House Bill Analysis that this bill does
not expressly delegate any additional rulemaking authority to a state
officer, department, agency or institution. 

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1.  Amends Section 21.009(2), Government Code, to redefine
"statutory county court." 

SECTION 2.  Amends Section 25.003, Government Code, by adding Subsection
(f), to provide that a statutory county court does not have the
jurisdiction of a statutory probate court granted statutory probate courts
by the Texas Probate Code. 

SECTION 3.  Amends Section 25.1802(a), Government Code, to delete text
providing that a county court at law for Nueces County has the general
jurisdiction and authority provided  for a probate or statutory court.
Deletes text regarding the inclusion of a statutory probate court in cases
involving mental health matters.  Deletes text regarding the pendent and
ancillary jurisdiction necessary to promote judicial efficiency and
economy.  Makes conforming changes. 

SECTION 4.  Effective date: September 1, 1999.