The legislative districts in the Texas House of Representatives and the Texas Senate have been drawn to produce predictable results according to party affiliation. Using computer modeling, the boundaries are manipulated to ensure a “safe” district for either a Republican or Democratic candidate. Consequently, the district representation is determined by the March primary, not the November general election, in the vast majority of the legislative positions. March is the time to initiate and strengthen legislative relationships.
Upon completion of the initial and runoff primaries, Commissioners Court members need to increase their communication with the primary nominees. This early communication will be especially important with the new legislators. There are already 15 open seats in the House of Representatives. Most new legislators have very little background in county government. Many assume that counties, like cities, have independent ordinance powers. Few are aware that counties are required to obtain legislative approval of all powers, duties, and responsibilities. Likewise, the central role of the Commissioners Court in county financial matters and the cost of state mandates needs to be emphasized.
Please utilize all available means of communication to help strengthen legislative relationships. A personal visit is highly recommended. An invitation to attend a Commissioners Court meeting, especially during the budget process, can be particularly informative. Include your legislator on your social media accounts. Finally, campaign contributions will certainly be welcomed.
When legislators return to the Capitol for the regular session in January, they will be inundated by special interests. This interim period provides the best opportunity to develop and strengthen our legislative relationships with these vital partners.
