Relating to the use of remote technology when conducting uncontested probate proceedings.

89(R) HB 3819 - House Committee Report version - Bill Text

89R8833 EAS-D

By: Johnson

H.B. No. 3819

A BILL TO BE ENTITLED

AN ACT

relating to the use of remote technology when conducting

uncontested probate proceedings.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:

SECTION 1. Subchapter C, Chapter 53, Estates Code, is

amended by adding Section 53.108 to read as follows:

Sec.

53.108.

USE OF REMOTE TECHNOLOGY IN UNCONTESTED

PROBATE PROCEEDINGS. (a)

In this section, "remote technology"

includes teleconference and videoconference technology.

(b) A court shall give each party to an uncontested probate

proceeding the option and ability to attend the proceeding through

remote technology.

(c)

An uncontested probate proceeding conducted through

remote technology is considered to be conducted in open court.

Testimony provided through remote technology in an uncontested

probate proceeding is considered to be taken in open court. A

decision, order, decree, or judgment rendered through remote

technology in an uncontested probate proceeding is considered to be

rendered in open court.

(d)

A court that conducts an uncontested probate proceeding

through remote technology must:

(1)

ensure that the public maintains access to the

proceeding; and

(2)

establish and make readily available to the

parties and the public guidelines regarding the conduct of

uncontested probate proceedings through remote technology.

SECTION 2. The changes in law made by this Act apply to a

probate proceeding that is pending on, or commenced on or after, the

effective date of this Act.

SECTION 3. This Act takes effect September 1, 2025.