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SB 336

Authorizing Department of Homeland Security to promulgate legislative rules

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jack Woodrum

SB 336 creates a clear framework to defend and indemnify state employees sued over actions within their official duties.

Chapter 164, Acts, Regular Session, 2025
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Bill Summary · SB 336

Summary of SB 336: Relating to the Defense of State Employees

Purpose and Intent

SB 336 aims to enhance the legal protections afforded to state employees in the event they face civil actions arising from their official duties. The bill seeks to clarify and strengthen the defense mechanisms available to these employees, ensuring they are not unduly burdened by legal challenges related to their work.

Key Provisions

  • Defense Mechanism: The bill establishes a framework for providing legal defense to state employees who are sued for actions taken in the course of their official duties.
  • Indemnification: It includes provisions for indemnifying state employees against legal costs incurred while defending against such civil actions, provided the actions were within the scope of their employment.
  • Clarification of Scope: The bill clarifies what constitutes "scope of employment," thereby delineating the circumstances under which state employees are eligible for defense and indemnification.
  • Procedural Guidelines: It outlines the procedures for requesting legal defense and the responsibilities of state agencies in facilitating this support.

Affected Parties

  • State Employees: The primary beneficiaries of this legislation are state employees who may face lawsuits related to their official duties.
  • State Agencies: Agencies will have clearer guidelines on how to support their employees in legal matters, potentially reducing liability and legal costs.
  • Legal System: The bill may impact the volume and nature of civil cases involving state employees, as it provides a structured defense mechanism.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: January 14, 2025
  • Final Passage: The bill passed its final reading in the House on May 2, 2025, after being amended in Conference Committee.
  • Governor's Review: The bill was enrolled and sent to the Governor on May 2, 2025, for final approval.

Legislative Actions Overview

  • House and Senate Collaboration: The bill underwent multiple readings and amendments in both the House and Senate, demonstrating a collaborative effort to refine its provisions.
  • Conference Committee: A Conference Committee was formed to reconcile differences between the House and Senate versions, resulting in amendments that were ultimately accepted.
  • Support: Throughout the legislative process, the bill received unanimous support, indicating broad consensus on the need for enhanced protections for state employees.

Conclusion

SB 336 represents a significant step toward safeguarding state employees from the financial and legal repercussions of civil actions related to their official duties. By establishing a clear defense and indemnification framework, the bill aims to promote a more secure working environment for state employees, allowing them to perform their duties without the fear of personal legal liability.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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