Tax assessor-collectors have worked diligently throughout the years to be a trusted resource for lawmakers as they consider new legislation. As the role of tax assessor-collectors is unique, they are qualified to offer their expertise on a multitude of issues, always with the goal of highlighting the impact certain legislation will have on their constituents, Texas … [Read more...] about The 87th Legislature and the Office of the Tax Assessor-Collector
87th Legislative Session
Changes in County Government Legal Requirements
Counties are governed by the Texas Constitution, legislative statutes, court decisions, and orders and regulations from the governor and state agencies. This column will discuss some recent changes affecting Commissioners Courts. VIRTUAL MEETINGS OF COMMISSIONERS COURTS In March 2020, Gov. Greg Abbott suspended certain provisions of the Texas Open Meetings Act to allow … [Read more...] about Changes in County Government Legal Requirements
Comptroller Creates Broadband Development Office
On Aug. 2, Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar announced the creation of the Broadband Development Office (BDO). Mandated by the 87th Texas Legislature’s House Bill 5, the BDO will award grants, low-interest loans, and other financial incentives to internet service providers who expand access to broadband service in underserved areas. “Easy, secure internet access is increasingly … [Read more...] about Comptroller Creates Broadband Development Office
Regular Session Report
Despite delays and disruptions from COVID-19 and the winter storm, there were 7,148 bills and constitutional amendments introduced during the 87th Regular Legislative Session. When the session concluded, 1,081 bills were sent to the governor, and he vetoed 21 of them, including the entire appropriation for the legislature. As expected, thousands of these bills affected county … [Read more...] about Regular Session Report
Anatomy of an Unfunded Mandate, Part II
A statutory duty imposed upon counties by the legislature without funding is an unfunded mandate. Every unfunded mandate requires a property tax increase. The majority of the CJCAT legislative efforts are directed toward the prevention of additional unfunded mandates. This session was no exception. In 2005, this column described the “Anatomy of an Unfunded Mandate.” That … [Read more...] about Anatomy of an Unfunded Mandate, Part II
