Election season is here again with signs of the upcoming runoff elections popping up everywhere from roadsides to Facebook to our mailboxes. I urge you to engage because your participation is critical, as this year’s races will directly impact our shared county priorities and the next Texas legislative session. Like most Texas County Judges, I wear many different hats on any … [Read more...] about A Note From Your Legislative Chairman
Texas Legislature
Texas Legislature – 2026 Interim Study Charges
The Texas Legislature meets in Regular Session for 140 days in odd-numbered years. During the even-numbered years, the committees of the Senate and House of Representatives conduct hearings, prepare reports, and draft legislation on issues assigned by the lieutenant governor and speaker of the house. Although many other subjects will be addressed in the 8,000 bills introduced … [Read more...] about Texas Legislature – 2026 Interim Study Charges
Resolution Spotlight
Opposition to Efforts to Prohibit County Legislative Communications
Throughout the last several legislative sessions, certain legislators have continued their efforts to obtain legislation to prohibit local officials and their nonprofit associations from communicating with the Texas Legislature, said CJCAT Senior General Counsel Jim Allison. “Using the term ‘taxpayer-funded lobbying,’ this legislation would bar local officials from expending … [Read more...] about Resolution Spotlight
Solving Our Legislative Relationship Problem: A New Year’s Resolution
In the October issue of County Progress, we discussed the deteriorating relationship between counties and the state leadership. Given the constitutional control exercised by the legislature over counties, this is a serious problem needing our attention. As we consider resolutions for the New Year, let’s discuss some suggestions to improve relationships with our … [Read more...] about Solving Our Legislative Relationship Problem: A New Year’s Resolution
89th Texas Legislature
Upon taking their oaths of office, a slate of newly elected officials will join their veteran colleagues in a state-county partnership designed by the Texas Constitution. The March issue of County Progress Magazine will be dedicated to the newest members of Commissioners Court and will feature our special County Government 101 Section. Since Texas Legislature will already be in … [Read more...] about 89th Texas Legislature