x-Did Not Pass: SB 817 -- Fraud on the community in divorce cases

Caption:  Relating to the division of community property on dissolution of marriage.
Author:  Harris
Bill History
Bill Text

Note:  While SB 817 did not pass, its companion, HB 908 passed both houses and, as of May 19, 2011, was awaiting Governor Perry's signature.

Relevance:  This bill applies only to suits for dissolution of a marriage.  It defines "fraud on the community" and requires the court to determine if a spouse has committed fraud on the community. If the court finds that a spouse has committed fraud on the community, it is required to calculate the "reconstituted" community estate and divide the reconstituted estate based on the fraud.

See "Bill may codify 'fraud on the community,' at least in divorces" on texasprobate.com.

Enacted-Effective 9/1/11: SB 482 -- Authorization agreements for non-parent relatives

Caption:  Relating to the requirements for an authorization agreement for a nonparent relative of a child.
Author:  Harris
Bill History
Bill Text 

Relevance:  In 2009, the Legislature enacted Chapter 34 of the Family Code, permitting authorization agreements for nonparent relatives.  This bill provides that only one authorization agreement may be in effect at any time, and it favors the first-signed agreement over later-signed agreements.