Scheef & Stone is proud to share that firm partner and State Representative Mitch Little (R–Lewisville) has been named Outstanding Freshman Legislator by the Texas House Republican Caucus for his work during the 88th Legislative Session.
This distinction recognizes Rep. Little’s leadership on key legislation, particularly House Bill 4623, which addresses a growing crisis of educator misconduct in Texas public schools. The bill removes sovereign immunity protections for school districts in civil cases involving sexual abuse by school employees—giving survivors and their families long-overdue access to the courts.
HB 4623 establishes joint and several liability between an individual school employee and the district in cases of proven negligence, introducing a new legal pathway for victims to pursue justice. While the initial bill proposed strict liability, the final version adopted a negligence standard and included a $500,000 cap on actual damages—bringing it in line with existing civil protections under the Texas Tort Claims Act.
Rep. Little introduced the bill in response to alarming data from the state’s educator misconduct reporting portal. Thousands of allegations were reported but never investigated, and many more remained unresolved. Throughout the legislative process, he emphasized the need for courts to play a greater role in addressing institutional failures and ensuring that Texas students are better protected.
The bill passed with broad bipartisan support, receiving 127 votes in favor and just 6 opposed, and has since been cited as a model for similar reforms in other states.
This legislative milestone underscores Mitch Little’s commitment to justice, accountability, and public service. His approach—grounded in real-world legal experience and a willingness to lead on difficult issues—reflects the values that Scheef & Stone is proud to champion.
In addition to his legislative role, Rep. Little practices law at Scheef & Stone, where he represents clients in complex litigation and business disputes. He serves House District 65, representing part of Denton County, and maintains an office at the Texas Capitol in Austin.
Learn more about HB 4623 and Rep. Little’s legislative work: Texas To Remove School Immunity In Child Sex Abuse Lawsuits