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 … [Read more...] about Strengthening Legislative Relationships
From the General Counsel
Elections in a Democratic Republic
Free and fair elections are a cornerstone of our system of government. Every two years, the voters have an opportunity to express their will and select their leaders. Required biennial elections are not common in other countries, even in democracies. The framers of our constitution ensured that our leaders would be required to undergo frequent review by the voters. The two-year … [Read more...] about Elections in a Democratic Republic
The Price of Public Service
Our democratic republic depends upon citizens willing to serve in public office, usually at a sacrifice to their own economic and personal welfare. This is certainly true at the county level, where dedicated officials perform their duties for minimal salaries. While Commissioners Courts may adjust county salaries, the 3.5 percent cap on annual property tax revenue prevents any … [Read more...] about The Price of Public Service
Fourth Special Session Underway
Immediately upon expiration of the Third Special Session, Gov. Abbott convened the Fourth Special Session, continuing to require the legislature to remain in session to consider private school vouchers and border issues. This is the first time in Texas history that the legislature has been compelled to meet for four special sessions in the same year as the regular legislative … [Read more...] about Fourth Special Session Underway
Legislative Update
On April 6, the Senate passed S.B. 175, silencing county officials, and the House passed S.B. 30, the state supplemental budget bill, and H.B. 1, the state budget for 2023-25. House and Senate committees continue to conduct hearings, and bill postings change daily. During the writing of this article, the second week of April, there were 41 bills on the Senate Intent … [Read more...] about Legislative Update