Texas SB944 prohibits courts from giving deference to state agency legal interpretations in judicial reviews.

Texas SB944 amends the Texas Government Code to change how courts review legal interpretations made by state agencies. Courts must review all questions of law de novo, meaning from scratch, without giving special consideration to the agency's interpretation. However, courts may still consider an agency's interpretation if it is reasonable and does not conflict with the plain language of the statute. This change applies to petitions for judicial review, actions for declaratory judgment, contested cases, and other proceedings initiated after the bill's effective date.

Texas SB944 prohibits courts from giving deference to state agency legal interpretations in judicial reviews.

Texas SB944 amends the Texas Government Code to change how courts review legal interpretations made by state agencies. Courts must review all questions of law de novo, meaning from scratch, without giving special consideration to the agency's interpretation. However, courts may still consider an agency's interpretation if it is reasonable and does not conflict with the plain language of the statute. This change applies to petitions for judicial review, actions for declaratory judgment, contested cases, and other proceedings initiated after the bill's effective date.