In this issue...

Legislative Update

Case Histories: Fleshing Out The Need For Reform

Shaping Opinion In Texas Newspapers

House Civil Practices Committee Plays Important Role In TLR 1997 Reform Package

Statewide Trade Association Endorsements

Local Trade Association Endorsements

Chamber Of Commerce Endorsements

Texans For Lawsuit Reform Legislation

Texans For Lawsuit Reform Staff Members and Positions

Legislative Update

The 75th regular legislative session is past its mid-point, and the focus of the Texans for Lawsuit Reform legislative agenda is on the House Civil Practices Committee. Two bills have already passed the Senate and are pending in Civil Practices: SB 275 pertaining to CPA privity and SB 220 addressing the problem of out-of-state lawsuits. The remaining tort reform bills are being taken up in the House first.

Committee work is the part of the legislative process that involves the closest scrutiny. It is also the part of the process where the public plays the most visible role, providing input and suggestions. TLR has taken an active role in the committee process, recruiting witnesses and providing responses to concerns raised during the hearings.

The House Civil Practices Committee held its first hearing on the TLR legislative agenda on March 11 when it took up HB 1020 by Rep. Junell. This bill gives juries the right to consider the possible negligence of employers that are immune from liability because they provide workers