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 constituents and taxpayers. With […]
Who Do You Trust During a Crisis?
When confronted with a crisis, our citizens turn to their elected officials for leadership and solutions. The present Coronavirus epidemic has created a tremendous crisis of public health, the economy, and leadership. As the COVID-19 cases have spread in Texas, our citizens have looked to our national, state, and local leaders for responsive plans and […]
The Finest Hour
As this column is being written, Texas is entering its darkest days of the Coronavirus epidemic. Although mitigation measures will hopefully reduce the burden on our medical infrastructure, it is clear that more physical suffering and deaths are approaching. After the storm of disease has abated, the economic damage will continue. While we cannot cure […]
Expanding the Dialogue on Legislative Communications
During the past legislative session, certain special interest groups launched an effort to silence local government officials. Determined to dominate the discussion concerning equitable taxation and appraisals, these groups proposed legislation to 1) prevent local governments from retaining professional lobbyists to present information on their behalf; 2) prohibit local governments from supporting associations that present […]
Mental Health Jail Backlog Increase
When accused persons are unable to assist in their defense because of mental incompetency, the trial court orders them committed to a state mental institution for treatment and restoration of their competency. These defendants have not been convicted of a crime, but they cannot be tried or released until they are mentally competent. For several […]
- 1
- 2
- 3
- …
- 21
- Next Page »
