In a statement released Wednesday, Abbott said the groups appear to be presenting themselves as legal authorities and issuing decisions he argues could conflict with state law.
The governor did not specify how many organizations are under scrutiny or where they are located, but he directed the Texas Attorney General’s Office and county prosecutors to examine whether any of the entities are misrepresenting their authority or violating statutes governing the practice of law.
Texas law allows private mediation and arbitration in civil disputes, but those processes cannot supersede state or federal law. Abbott said the goal of his request is to ensure any tribunals or mediation groups are operating within legal limits.
The announcement comes amid broader national conversations about the role of religious arbitration panels across various faith communities. No criminal allegations have been filed, and the scope of the potential investigations remains unclear as prosecutors review the governor’s request.
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