By Julie Anderson, Editor An unfunded mandate is a state law or regulation that requires a local government to perform certain actions, with no money provided for fulfilling the requirements. During the Regular Session of the 82nd Texas Legislature, Rep. Burt R. Solomons filed House Joint Resolution 56 (HJR 56) calling for the prohibition of unfunded mandates. Oldham … [Read more...] about Unfunded Mandate Legislation: Past Efforts Lay Groundwork for Future Progress
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Opioid Epidemic Takes Toll on Local Government Multiple Counties Take Legal Action
By Julie Anderson Editor The statistics are staggering and startling. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), overdose deaths involving prescription opioids were five times higher in 2016 than 1999, and sales of these prescription drugs have quadrupled. “Opioid prescribing continues to fuel the epidemic,” the CDC states. “Today, 40 percent of all … [Read more...] about Opioid Epidemic Takes Toll on Local Government Multiple Counties Take Legal Action
A Glimpse in the Life of Brooks County Judge Imelda Barrera
Every so often, County Progress asks our distinguished Judges and Commissioners to allow us a glimpse into their public lives, giving us a fresh appreciation for the myriad of roles and responsibilities they shoulder every day. Our thanks to Brooks County Judge Imelda Barrera for taking the time to visit with us. History: I ran for County Judge in 2014. After the … [Read more...] about A Glimpse in the Life of Brooks County Judge Imelda Barrera
Milam County: Standing Room Only
Standing Room Only In October 2017, Milam County Judge Dave Barkemeyer shared exciting news with a packed crowd gathered in a county courtroom. Some 80 people filled available seats while others leaned against the walls and lined up behind the Judge in the hallway so they could hear him. “The interest in the community was overwhelming, and the response from the media was … [Read more...] about Milam County: Standing Room Only
Communicating the Cost of County Government
Communicating the Cost of County Government Unfunded Mandates Survey Editor’s Note: This survey report was released last year as a communication tool to help explain the cost of unfunded and underfunded mandates on property taxpayers. In the coming months, counties will be contacted and survey data will be updated in preparation for the 86th Session of the Texas Legislature, … [Read more...] about Communicating the Cost of County Government