*** Click here for the audio version.*** The December 2025 column warned of the coming reduction in funding for federal health care programs. It outlined the likely impact on county indigent health care programs and rural health care availability. Unfortunately, that funding reduction has arrived. Under Chapter 61, Health and Safety Code, a county without a public hospital … [Read more...] about Federal Health Care Funding Cuts
From the General Counsel
Voting in Elections: A Fundamental Right and Duty
*** Click here for the audio version.*** Elections are the signature trademark of a democratic republic. The framers of the U.S. Constitution recognized the importance of guaranteeing the right to elect our representation. Consistent with the concerns over concentration of power, Article I of the U.S. Constitution assigns the responsibility for elections to the states, not the … [Read more...] about Voting in Elections: A Fundamental Right and Duty
The Corrupt Property Tax Appraisal System
*** Click here for the audio version.*** In 1979, the Texas Legislature approved the Property Tax Code to abolish unequal property tax appraisals by cities, counties, and school districts. The “Peveto Bill” created 254 appraisal districts, charged with the responsibility of ensuring uniformity based on “fair market value.” Since the adoption of this reform, the legislature … [Read more...] about The Corrupt Property Tax Appraisal System
Interim Legislative Hearings
*** Click here for the audio version.*** With the completion of the primary elections, the legislature begins its interim studies. Senate and House committees will conduct hearings on subjects assigned by the lieutenant governor and speaker. These committees will file reports in November and recommend draft legislation on their assigned topics. Many of the 8,000 bills … [Read more...] about Interim Legislative Hearings
Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness
As we celebrate the 190th anniversary of the Texas Declaration of Independence and approach the 250th anniversary of the United States Declaration of Independence, it is appropriate to reflect on the principles that were embodied in both of these documents and the efforts required to attain and sustain these principles. The significant role of county government in the … [Read more...] about Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness