Election season is here again with signs of the upcoming runoff elections popping up everywhere from roadsides to Facebook to our mailboxes. I urge you to engage because your participation is critical, as this year’s races will directly impact our shared county priorities and the next Texas legislative session. Like most Texas County Judges, I wear many different hats on any … [Read more...] about A Note From Your Legislative Chairman
Legislature
Texas Legislature – 2026 Interim Study Charges
The Texas Legislature meets in Regular Session for 140 days in odd-numbered years. During the even-numbered years, the committees of the Senate and House of Representatives conduct hearings, prepare reports, and draft legislation on issues assigned by the lieutenant governor and speaker of the house. Although many other subjects will be addressed in the 8,000 bills introduced … [Read more...] about Texas Legislature – 2026 Interim Study Charges
The 89th Texas Legislature and the Office of the County Clerk
Editor’s Note: In the interest of space, information detailing several of the bills below has been condensed and summarized. For a thorough explanation of each bill, please go to https://bit.ly/co-clerk-89th-leg. Our thanks to Rockwall County Clerk Jennifer Fogg for providing this information, which includes non-election legislative updates. Election-related legislation is … [Read more...] about The 89th Texas Legislature and the Office of the County Clerk
89th Texas Legislature
CJCAT County Impact Analysis
The Regular Session of the 89th Texas Legislature began with a $24 billion surplus and high hopes for action on several important issues. County priorities included additional funding for mental health and indigent defense, and new funding for rural ambulance services. While significant funding was included for rural ambulance services, the county taxpayers remain financially … [Read more...] about 89th Texas Legislature
Significant Legislation – 89th Texas Legislature
With over 5,000 bills currently filed, the legislative session will definitely include numerous bills with significant effect on counties. Bills often undergo major changes as they progress through the committee and floor process. To receive timely updates on significant bills, please monitor the Texas Association of Counties listserv. Under Section 5, Article III, Texas … [Read more...] about Significant Legislation – 89th Texas Legislature