During the period following the general election and the beginning of the legislative session, legislators may pre-file bills. These bills are assigned a number, but no further action can be scheduled before the session. Some county-related bills have been pre-filed, including the following: HB = House Bill, SB = Senate Bill HB113 by Harless/SB124 by … [Read more...] about County Bills Pre-Filed
From the General Counsel
An Extraordinary Time of Transition
In January of odd-numbered years, newly elected county and state officers assume their duties and continue the cycle of transfer of power that defines our democratic system. With each renewal of this process, we should pause and thank those who have completed their public service. Your experience and leadership will be missed. Please accept our appreciation for … [Read more...] about An Extraordinary Time of Transition
Compensation of Judges on Juvenile Board
The compensation of judges is a complex issue involving the division of powers under the Texas Constitution. As members of an independent branch of government, the Texas Supreme Court held in Vondy v. Uvalde County that these officers must be paid a reasonable salary. However, it is the responsibility … [Read more...] about Compensation of Judges on Juvenile Board
Redistricting
How Should We Count the Inmates? The Maryland, Delaware, and New York legislatures recently approved laws that, for redistricting purposes, will count inmates at their most recent permanent home addresses before they were incarcerated, rather than at the institution where they are housed. Maryland’s law, the first to be enacted,will … [Read more...] about Redistricting
Emergency Services Districts Under Review
As demand for fire and ambulance services increase, many communities are creating Emergency Services Districts (ESDs). There are currently 288 ESDs in Texas. The Senate Committee on Intergovernmental Relations has been … [Read more...] about Emergency Services Districts Under Review