Texas Bill Aims to Give Serious Asbestos Injuries Docket Priority

Legislation easily passed a Texas Senate committee with minor revisions that will cut down the number of asbestos-related lawsuits. The asbestos-related legislation could become the second major lawsuit reform bill passed since Republicans took control of both the Senate and House this year.

The legislation would create a statewide “inactive docket” overseen by the state Supreme Court for asbestos lawsuits in which the victim has not developed any significant respiratory problems due to their exposure to asbestos.

Only those victims who develop cancer or other serious health conditions would move into an “active docket” and be allowed to proceed in local courts.