Bill > HB5567

This bill modifies two key areas related to state administrative processes: filing methods for business documents and fee structures for expedited services provided by the Texas Secretary of State. Specifically, the bill expands the acceptable methods of delivering filing instruments to the Secretary of State by removing references to fax and adding a broad provision allowing "any method approved by the secretary of state," which provides more flexibility in document submission. For expedited services, the bill removes specific fee caps for various services and instead allows the Secretary of State to set "reasonable fees" up to $5,000, while also providing new provisions that require the Secretary to refund fees if expedited services are not provided as requested. The bill introduces clearer definitions of "expedited" services as handling documents in a shorter-than-usual timeframe, potentially including processing within less than one business day. Additionally, the bill includes transitional provisions specifying that these changes will apply only to filing instruments and expedited service requests made on or after specific dates, ensuring a smooth implementation. The legislation will take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote in the Texas legislature, or otherwise on September 1, 2025.

Business and Industry

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB5567