At the conclusion of the Regular Session of the 83rd Texas Legislature, 1,631 bills and resolutions were sent to Gov. Rick Perry for his approval or veto. Several hundred of these affect counties. The deadline for veto actions by the governor was June 16. Approved bills may have immediate effect if they received a two-thirds vote in each house. However, many bills will be … [Read more...] about Regular Session Results
From the General Counsel
From the General Counsel – Legislative Reflections
As the end of the legislative session approaches, most major issues remain unresolved, and the possibility of a special session remains. Major differences have emerged between the House and the Senate over the funding for water projects, transportation infrastructure, and education, particularly over the potential use of the Rainy Day Fund. If these issues are not resolved, … [Read more...] about From the General Counsel – Legislative Reflections
General Counsel’s Report – May 2013
As the session reaches its final weeks, bills that remain in committee are in serious difficulty. Bills are being scheduled for floor action in the House and Senate. Bills will change by floor amendment during this process. However, some issues and subjects are beginning to be discarded. Some significant areas and bills include the following: Good Bills – Need … [Read more...] about General Counsel’s Report – May 2013
From the General Counsel – April 2013
With almost 6,000 bills and constitutional amendments filed, the Legislature begins evaluation and revision of these bills in committee and final consideration on the floor of the House and Senate. Bills will change during this process. However, some issues and subjects are beginning to develop. Some significant areas and bills include the following: Good Bills … [Read more...] about From the General Counsel – April 2013
General Counsel’s Report – Legislative Session Underway
With the appointment of committees, legislative hearings will begin. Rep. Garnet Coleman has been re-appointed as chairman of the House County Affairs Committee. Sen. Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa has been designated to assume the chairmanship of the Senate Intergovernmental Relations Committee. Some important county bills are listed below with a very brief analysis. We are … [Read more...] about General Counsel’s Report – Legislative Session Underway