LEGISLATIVE BUDGET BOARD

Austin, Texas

FISCAL NOTE, 78TH LEGISLATURE 1st CALLED SESSION - 2003

July 9, 2003

TO:	Honorable Bill Ratliff, Chair, Senate Committee on State Affairs
FROM:	John Keel, Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:	SB41 by Carona (Relating to civil claims involving exposure to asbestos and resulting illnesses.), As Introduced

No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.

The bill would amend the Civil Practice and Remedies Code relating to civil claims involving exposure to asbestos and resulting illnesses.  The bill would require asbestos-related actions commenced after the effective date of the bill to include only those claims accompanied by a medical diagnosis of asbestos-related illness as defined under terms of the bill.  The bill would also set a limitations period for asbestos-related claims and would require trial courts to give preference in scheduling hearings for such claims.  Actions commenced before the effective date of the bill would be governed by the applicable law in effect before that date.

 

The bill would take immediate effect if the bill receives the vote of two-thirds the members of each house.  Otherwise, the bill would take effect November 1, 2003.

Local Government Impact

No significant fiscal implication to units of local government is anticipated.

Source Agencies:

LBB Staff:

JK, RR, TB