SRC-TBR, CTC S.B. 78 77(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center S.B. 78 77R468 AEI-FBy: Haywood Business & Commerce 2/9/2001 As Filed DIGEST AND PURPOSE Currently, "local chamber of commerce" does not fall under the definition of a charitable organization, making volunteers liable to potential litigation. As proposed, S.B. 78 includes "local chamber of commerce" in the definition of charitable organization, offering immunity from civil liability to an officer, director, trustee, or a direct service volunteer acting in good faith. 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 84.003(1), Civil Practice and Remedies Code, to redefine "charitable organization" to include certain local chambers of commerce. SECTION 2. Amends Section 84.007, Civil Practice and Remedies Code, to provide that this chapter is not applicable to a cosponsor of an event with a local chamber of commerce unless the cosponsor is considered a charitable organization under this chapter. SECTION 3. Effective date: September 1, 2001. Makes application of this act prospective.