October

Redistricting Complete; Primary and General Election Dates Set

October 28, 2021| Legislative News

In September’s County Issues newsletter, we summarized the second special session’s Senate Bill 13 by Sen. Joan Huffman (R-Houston). SB 13 was set to shift election dates if the Legislature did not complete redistricting by Nov. 15. Fortunately, no temporary alternative election dates will be needed.

Proposed State Constitutional Amendments of Interest to Counties

October 28, 2021| Legislative News

Texans will go to the polls Tuesday to vote on proposed amendments to the Texas Constitution. A list of the amendments that will appear on the ballot can be found here.

With 3rd Special Session Complete, Governor and Lieutenant Governor Disagree on Need for 4th

October 28, 2021| Legislative News

Using all 30 days allotted by the Texas Constitution, and still needing a late flurry of activity, the 87th Legislature passed most of Gov. Greg Abbott’s priorities and adjourned the third special session on Oct. 19.

Gov. Abbott Signs Legislature’s Redistricting Maps

October 28, 2021| Legislative News

To the surprise of many who thought the process would take more than one special session to sort out, the 87th Legislature successfully redrew congressional, legislative and State Board of Education district maps.

Grant Awards Available Through Local Hazard Mitigation Plans Program

October 28, 2021| Legislative News

The $25 million Local Hazard Mitigation Plans Program (LHMPP) provides grants to help eligible entities develop or update local hazard mitigation plans.

Legislature OKs $13.3 Billion Spending Plan for State's ARPA Funds

October 28, 2021| Legislative News

Appropriating the state’s $16.3 billion in COVID-19 fiscal relief funds and reapportioning legislative, congressional and State Board of Education districts were the top priorities.

Legislature Passes Measures to Increase Residential Homestead Exemption

October 28, 2021| Legislative News

The Texas House of Representatives and the Texas Senate reached a late-night agreement on property tax reform measures.

D.C. Watch

October 28, 2021| Legislative News

TAC’s federal outreach team held its first meetings with members of the Texas congressional delegation in Washington, D.C., on Sept. 27 and 28.

"Dog Tethering" Bill Passes Again; Governor Signs It This Time

October 28, 2021| Legislative News

Senate Bill 5, by Sen. Eddie Lucio Jr. (D-Brownsville), represents the latest effort to update state canine-restraint laws.

Broadband 2021 Report

October 28, 2021| Legislative News

Gov. Greg Abbott’s Broadband Development Council recently released its 2021 report to the Texas Legislature.

County Auditors Elect New Board of Directors

October 28, 2021| Legislative News

At its recently completed 76th Annual Fall Conference, the Texas Association of County Auditors (TACA) installed a new President and Board of Directors for the 2021-22 term.

AG Opinions and Requests

October 28, 2021| Legislative News

TAC has highlighted recent Attorney General Opinions and Requests for Opinions of interest to counties.

What We're Reading

October 28, 2021| Legislative News

Here's a look at some of the Texas stories media outlets covered this week:


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