SMA Statement on Senate Passage of HB 19

FOR IMMEDIATE DISTRIBUTION—May 19, 2021
SMA Contact: Kimberly Leggett
kimberly@mytexasmover.com

AUSTIN—Southwest Movers Association executive director John D. Esparza today released the following statement regarding the passage on third reading of House Bill 19 by the Texas Senate on a bipartisan vote of 31-0: 
 
“With today’s unanimous passage of House Bill 19, the Texas Senate has recognized the serious threat abusive commercial vehicle litigation poses to the moving industry and to anyone that operates a commercial vehicle. 
 
The intent of this bill remains the same as it has throughout the legislative process—protecting businesses from abusive lawsuits while ensuring Texans, injured due to the negligence of others, continue to be compensated fairly. 

Thanks to the unwavering support of Lt. Governor Dan Patrick, who named this as a priority item this legislative session, House author Jeff Leach (R-Plano) and Senate sponsor Larry Taylor (R-Friendswood), this bill does just that! Not only does the bill achieve its original goal, but it does so with bipartisan support—a strong testament to the necessity of this bill. 
 
Thank you to the Texas Senate for advancing House Bill 19 and we encourage the Texas House of Representatives to concur on all revisions made in the Senate.”