The 87th Legislature was as we expected it to be. Participation from not only Judges and Commissioners, but sheriffs, treasurers, other elected officials, and association representatives helped us to stay engaged in order to have our voices heard. All of us together challenged those who wished to silence us. Even the legislators themselves, though some […]
Public Service Versus Political Service
Our democratic republic is sustained by a political process. Political parties select candidates for the general election through their primaries. Political party platforms outline the issues to be addressed by the government. However, upon election, public officials are expected to represent the greater good and govern in the interest of all citizens. Unfortunately, this principle is being diminished […]
Communicating With the Texas Legislature
The 87th Regular Session of the Texas Legislature has begun its activities under COVID restrictions. Revisions to the Rules of the Senate and House of Representatives have imposed restrictions on the ability to visit the Capitol and present information directly to legislators, staff, and committees. If you are planning a personal visit to the Capitol, […]
State Association Legislative Activity Threatened
For over 98 years, the County Judges and Commissioners Association of Texas has provided important services to the members of our Commissioners Courts including educational, legal, administrative, and legislative services. During each legislative session, the CJCAT analyzes the 7,000 introduced bills, identifies the several hundred that directly affect counties, provides updates and alerts to our […]
Unfunded Mandate Legislation
Past Efforts Lay Groundwork for Future Progress
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 County Judge Don R. Allred was there in person to offer his applause. “This was an important piece of legislation for counties,” recalled Allred, a past president […]
