Bill > HB2909

This bill introduces a new mechanism for expunging (removing) records related to residential eviction suits in Texas under two specific circumstances. First, a court can order expunction if the eviction suit was without sufficient legal or factual basis and the court determines that expunging the records serves the interests of justice. Second, a tenant can request expunction if they have maintained gainful employment for at least two years after a final eviction judgment. The bill requires that once records are ordered expunged, all parties must destroy and not publish those records, with potential liability of $1,000 in exemplary damages, actual damages, and attorney's fees for violations. Additionally, the bill prohibits landlords from considering expunged eviction records when evaluating future rental applications, with similar financial penalties for non-compliance. The Texas Supreme Court is required to develop implementation rules by January 1, 2026, and the law will apply to eviction suits commenced before, on, or after that date, with the act taking effect on September 1, 2025. The goal appears to be protecting tenants from long-term negative consequences of eviction proceedings, particularly when those proceedings lack substantial merit or the tenant has demonstrated subsequent stability.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2909