That’s a wrap!
TAC's Legislative Services team completed the long-standing fall Legislative Exchange program in a transformed virtual format.
County officials representing 126 counties participated in nine events that began in mid-September. They shared concerns for the next legislative session on issues such as the COVID-19 pandemic, county revenues, behavioral health, emergency management authority and local control.
The events were conducted on WebEx, allowing county representatives and TAC staff to visit and speak openly about issues arising from past legislation. An added benefit to the online format has been that county officials were able to participate while avoiding the time and travel commitments of past events. For the same reason, more members of TAC's Legislative Services team were able to contribute to these discussions.
Virtual exchanges were scheduled for counties in the regions of Bell, Denton, Glasscock, Erath, El Paso, Jefferson, Potter, Hidalgo and Nacogdoches counties. Local county officials served as online “hosts” and helped to encourage local participation.
Luncheons with Legislators were also conducted virtually to give county officials the opportunity to connect with lawmakers. In the past few months, online events have been held with Rep. Drew Darby (R-San Angelo), as well as Senators Robert Nichols (R-Jacksonville) and Bryan Hughes (R-Mineola). Luncheons will continue through the first month of the legislative session.
If you have questions about scheduling an event in your area, please email TAC Core Legislative Group Coordinator Rhita Koches.