The legal landscape is constantly changing with our society and technology. Counties are often called upon to be the “first responders” to new needs and opportunities. Counties try to provide the services needed by our citizens in a responsible, efficient manner. However, counties, unlike cities, have no general ordinance power. Our programs must be authorized by the Texas … [Read more...] about From the General Counsel: Speed Cameras and Nursing Homes
Excellence Initiative Reaps Benefits
By Smith County Judge Joel Baker, Newly Elected Secretary/Treasurer, North & East Texas County Judges and Commissioners Association I want to thank the members of the Nominating Committee of the North & East Texas County Judges and Commissioners Association for their confidence in giving me the opportunity to serve the Association as an officer. I also want to thank … [Read more...] about Excellence Initiative Reaps Benefits
Attorney General Opinions: July 2014
Economic Development Corp., Entertainment Projects Re: Whether section 505.152 of the Local Government Code authorizes an economic development corporation to fund certain entertainment projects (RQ-1156-GA). Submitted by Joseph Deshotel Chair, Committee on Land and Resource Management Texas House of Representatives Summary, Opinion No. GA-1050: A court could conclude … [Read more...] about Attorney General Opinions: July 2014
Employment Law Update: Drug Testing Employees, Applicants
By Vanessa A. Gonzalez Under the 14th Amendment incorporation doctrine, local government employers cannot violate rights guaranteed to their employees under the U.S. Bill of Rights. Drug testing, specifically urine sample testing, implicates privacy issues and constitutes a search.1 The Fourth Amendment protects citizens from illegal searches. The basic question courts … [Read more...] about Employment Law Update: Drug Testing Employees, Applicants
From the President – July 2014
INDEPENDENCE: the freedom from the control, influence, support, aid or the like, of others.* July Fourth is celebrated as a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4th, 1776, declaring our independence from Great Britain. The Fourth of July is usually associated with fireworks, picnics, parades, barbeques, … [Read more...] about From the President – July 2014