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 being passed. It remains to be seen whether the COVID-19 epidemic will have an effect on the number of bills filed and passed. Since the legislature must adopt a state budget with a decline in anticipated revenue and approve redistricting of the Senate, House, and Congressional seats, these subjects are likely to absorb much of the time and energy.
The self-destruction of Speaker Bonnen will require the selection of a new Speaker of the House of Representatives. With the Republicans retaining a majority, it appears that Rep. Dade Phelan from Beaumont will assume this leadership role. Local officials hope for a return to a cordial relationship and open communication with this important office.
There will be little change in the Senate. The term of Lt. Gov. Patrick continues until 2023. One Republican senator will be replaced by Democratic Rep. Roland Gutierrez. A December runoff election will fill the seat being vacated by Sen. Fallon.
Most county legislative issues will be familiar versions from past sessions. “Good ideas” will appear as unfunded mandate bills, requiring further increases in county property taxes. Additional revenue caps will be proposed to restrict county revenues. Special interest groups are already soliciting legislative pledges to support legislation to silence local officials, like the failed S.B. 29 in the past session.
The significant unknown factor at present concerns the limitation and procedures on public access during the legislative session. The House and Senate will review their rules to determine whether citizens will be allowed to testify before committees, visit their representatives and senators, and observe the proceedings. Speaker-apparent Phelan has appointed a workgroup to prepare recommended procedures for the session. While safety is a legitimate concern during the epidemic, conducting the affairs of government behind closed doors is never a good policy. Unburdened by the Texas Open Meetings Act, the legislature will determine the amount of sunshine on the legislative process.
The State Officers and Legislative Committee of the County Judges and Commissioners Association of Texas will continue to present our legislative positions as contained in the resolutions adopted at our State Conference. Please contact your legislators on these matters and keep us informed on their positions.
For additional information, please call me at 1-800-733-0699.