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
From the General Counsel
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
Legislative Update
The 88th Regular Legislative Session is gaining momentum with the end of the bill filing and emergency bill consideration period. Committees are organized and posting bills for hearing. The legislature is on a record pace for bill filing. Senate Finance and House Appropriations are completing their proposed budgets. Commissioners Court members should stay engaged throughout the … [Read more...] about Legislative Update
Early Session Legislative Update
The 140-day Regular Session of the 88th Legislature has begun, and more than 2,500 bills have already been filed in the House and Senate. Senate Committee membership has been announced by the lieutenant governor, and House Committee appointments will be made shortly by the speaker of the House. No final actions can be taken in the first 60 days except for emergency … [Read more...] about Early Session Legislative Update