For over 98 years, the County Judges and Commissioners Association of Texas has provided important services to the members of our Commissioners Courts including educational, legal, administrative, and legislative services. During each legislative session, the CJCAT analyzes the 7,000 introduced bills, identifies the several hundred that directly affect counties, provides … [Read more...] about State Association Legislative Activity Threatened
From the General Counsel
Legislative Session Begins
For the first time in over 100 years, the Texas Legislature will convene during a worldwide pandemic. While health concerns will affect the proceedings, the legislature will consider many bills that affect county government. With limited access to the Texas Capitol, county officials must use all available means to communicate with legislators. We will continue to post … [Read more...] about Legislative Session Begins
Legislative Pre-Filings Begin
As this column is being written, the pre-filing period for the legislative session begins. Legislators can file bills during a period from 60 days before the session through the first 60 days of the session. Over 500 bills were pre-filed on the first day. With no restrictions on the number of bills, over 7,000 bills have been filed in recent sessions with approximately 1,500 … [Read more...] about Legislative Pre-Filings Begin
Recognizing the Importance of Education
During its 98 years of existence, the County Judges and Commissioners Association of Texas has implemented several services to meet the needs of members of Commissioners Courts including communication through our excellent magazine, County Progress, legal advice through the CJCAT general counsel, and legislative representation through the state officers and legislative … [Read more...] about Recognizing the Importance of Education
Preparing for an Unusual Legislative Session
At this time in even-numbered years, legislative committees are usually conducting interim hearings to receive testimony, analyze issues, and prepare reports and draft legislation for the upcoming legislative session. These interim activities provide a valuable opportunity for county officials to educate legislators and staff on the effects of potential legislation on their … [Read more...] about Preparing for an Unusual Legislative Session