The Texas House has adopted a bill that would make it tougher to bring a civil lawsuit.
Rep. Brandon Creighton used House rules to force a vote on the legislation without allowing amendments or debate. The legislation also would allow defendants to collect costs if they prevail in cases of breach of an oral or written contract.
Gov. Rick Perry has declared the tort reform bill to be emergency legislation.
Creighton, says the bill will make civil courts more efficient. Opponents say it will discourage people from bringing suits because of the fear of paying huge legal costs if they lose.
The move angered Democrats, who had used parliamentary maneuvers to delay the bill.
Creighton said amendments could be considered during a final procedural vote on the legislation.
