Speaker Tom Craddick has assigned interim study charges to the committees of the House of Representatives. As these issues are set for public hearing, notice will be posted on the TAC list serves. County-related issues include the following: HOUSE COMMITTEE ON CIVIL PRACTICES Review the scope and extent of governmental immunity in contract disputes under the Texas Tort … [Read more...] about House Interim Study Charges
From the General Counsel
LEGISLATIVE REPORT
The following bills passed by the 79th Legislature will have a significant impact on Texas counties. The effective date for these bills or veto action by the governor is included. HB57 Denny, Jackson, Mike - Relating to the dates on which elections may be held. This bill eliminates all election dates except May and November. (10.01.05) HB129 Berman, Eltife - Relating to … [Read more...] about LEGISLATIVE REPORT
Legislation Addresses Regional Mobility Authorities
The 79th Legislature’s House Bill 2702 made several changes that will affect Texas’ Regional Mobility Authorities (RMAs). An RMA is a political subdivision formed by one or more counties to finance, acquire, design, construct, operate, maintain, expand or extend transportation projects. The project may be tolled or non-tolled. RMAs generate revenue for additional … [Read more...] about Legislation Addresses Regional Mobility Authorities
Anatomy of an Unfunded Mandate
An unfunded mandate is a requirement imposed upon counties without an appropriation by the state. The primary legislative objective of the State Association is the prevention of unfunded mandates. Legislators have an unending supply of “good ideas” without funding. Every session, we successfully defeat numerous bills with proposed unfunded mandates. Despite our … [Read more...] about Anatomy of an Unfunded Mandate
Senate Bill 18 Changes Property Tax Notice And Hearing Requirements
Secretary of State Williams has declared that SB18 by Sen. Williams/Rep. Ritter has immediate effect. Therefore, these new requirements will apply to the tax notice and hearings for this year if the proposed tax rate will exceed the effective tax rate. Notice. The content of the newspaper notice of the tax rate hearings has changed. If the county has a Web site, the … [Read more...] about Senate Bill 18 Changes Property Tax Notice And Hearing Requirements