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
From the General Counsel
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
The High Cost of Neglected Mental Health Services
In a recent report, Texas ranked 51st among the states and the District of Columbia in access to mental health care services. This is not a new situation. Texas has consistently funded its services near the bottom of all states. The unfortunate results are easy to document. Early intervention and treatment are unavailable. Law enforcement, the courts, jails, detention centers, … [Read more...] about The High Cost of Neglected Mental Health Services
Legislative Priorities
With the pre-filing of bills, state leaders and legislators are outlining their priorities for this legislative session. A lively discussion has already begun concerning the proper utilization of the state revenue surplus, estimated to exceed $30 billion. Gov. Abbott has proposed that 50 percent be dedicated to property tax relief. Lt. Gov. Patrick has indicated support for a … [Read more...] about Legislative Priorities
The Test of Democracy
The Texas Constitution, adopted in 1876, was designed to prevent an excessive concentration of power. It divides the functions of county government into many separate offices, occupied by independent elected officers. Texas elects more local officials than any other state. Unlike the prior state constitution, the governor does not appoint county officials or set the budget and … [Read more...] about The Test of Democracy