Signed Into Law
Signed June 20, 2025Effective 2025-06-20
HB2488

Regular Session

Relating to conducting certain contested case hearings under the Texas workers' compensation system by remote communication.

Government Affairs & Regulatory Compliance Analysis

Business Impact

Who HB2488 Affects

Regulatory Priority: moderate

Notable regulatory updates (effective 2025-06-20). Consider how these changes may affect your operations.

Estimated Cost Impact

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Compliance Analysis

Key implementation requirements and action items for compliance with this legislation

Immediate Action Plan

Operational Changes Required

Strategic Ambiguities & Considerations

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Information presented is for general knowledge only and is provided without warranty, express or implied. Consult qualified government affairs professionals and legal counsel before making compliance decisions.

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Quick Reference

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about HB2488

Q

What does Texas HB2488 do?

Effective June 20, 2025, the Texas Division of Workers' Compensation (DWC) has permanent statutory authority to conduct contested case hearings via videoconference, replacing temporary pandemic measures. This change affects all Texas employers ("Subscribers") and carriers, requiring an immediate shift in litigation strategy to accommodate remote evidence presentation and witness testimony.

Q

Who authored HB2488?

HB2488 was authored by Texas Representative Keith Bell during the Regular Session.

Q

When was HB2488 signed into law?

HB2488 was signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott on June 20, 2025.

Q

Which agencies enforce HB2488?

HB2488 is enforced by Division of Workers' Compensation (DWC) and Texas Department of Insurance (TDI).

Q

How significant are the changes in HB2488?

The regulatory priority for HB2488 is rated as "moderate". Businesses and organizations should review the legislation to understand potential impacts.

Q

What is the cost impact of HB2488?

The cost impact of HB2488 is estimated as "low". This may vary based on industry and implementation requirements.

Q

What topics does HB2488 address?

HB2488 addresses topics including labor, labor--workers' compensation, videoconferencing and workers' compensation, commissioner of.

Q

What are the key dates for HB2488?

Key dates for HB2488: Effective date is 2025-06-20. Rulemaking: The Commissioner must adopt rules to implement Section 410.0055, specifically defining procedural standards for videoconferencing and criteria for 'good cause' determinations. (As soon as practicable after June 20, 2025). Consult with legal counsel regarding applicability.

Q

Which Texas businesses are affected by HB2488?

HB2488 primarily affects employers and workforce development organizations. These businesses should review the legislation with their legal and compliance teams to understand potential impacts.

Legislative data provided by LegiScanLast updated: January 11, 2026