83RD LEGISLATURE • REGULAR SESSION - county€¦ · Hidalgo County Constable Hon. Roger Harmon Johnson County Judge Hon. Patti C. Jones Lubbock County Commissioner Paul J. Sugg

1210 San Antonio, Austin, TX 78701 • P.O. Box 2131, Austin, TX 78768

(512) 478-8753 • (800) 456-5974 • www.county.org

2013 Legislative Analysis Report83RD LEGISLATURE • REGULAR SESSION

Summary Information on Activities of Interest to County Officials

PresidentHon. Connie Hickman Navarro County Justice of the Peace

President ElectHon. Don Allred Oldham County Judge Vice PresidentHon. Joyce G. Hudman Brazoria County County Clerk

Immediate Past PresidentHon. Vernon H. Cook Roberts County Judge

Hon. Luanne Caraway Hays County Tax Assessor-Collector Hon. Renee Couch Comal County Treasurer

Mr. Edward A. Dion, CIO El Paso County Auditor

Hon.Laurie K. English Sutton County District Attorney, 112th District Hon. Neil E. FritschCalhoun County Commissioner

Hon. Lazaro Gallardo Hidalgo County Constable

Hon. Roger Harmon Johnson County Judge Hon. Patti C. Jones Lubbock County Commissioner Hon. Teresa Kiel Guadalupe County County Clerk

Hon. Daniel C. Law Caldwell County Sheriff

Hon. Jackie Miller, Jr. Ellis County Justice of the Peace

Hon. Charles Shofner, Jr. Jasper County Commissioner Hon. Sherilyn Woodfin Tom Green County District Clerk Hon. Marc Hamlin, NACo Representative Brazos County District Clerk Hon. Ron Hickman, NACo Representative Harris County Constable

Paul J. SuggDirector, Legislative Department

Laura V. GarciaDeputy Legislative Director

Aurora FloresLegislative Liaison

Nanette ForbesLegislative Liaison

Laura Nicholes Senior Legislative Liaison

Ender ReedSenior Policy Advisor

Rick ThompsonSenior Legislative Liaison

Jamie ChandlerOperations Manager

COUNTY INFORMATION PROGRAM

Bruce BarrGIS Analyst

Tim BrownSenior Analyst

Paul K. EmersonState Financial Analyst

2013 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

LEGISLATIVE DEPARTMENT STAFF

PUBLISHERTexas Association of Counties

EXECUTIVE DIRECTORGene Terry

LEGISLATIVE DEPARTMENT DIRECTORPaul J. Sugg

DEPUTY LEGISLATIVE DIRECTORLaura V. Garcia

CONTRIBUTORS Bruce BarrTim Brown

Jamie ChandlerPaul K. Emerson

Aurora FloresNanette ForbesLaura V. GarciaLaura Nicholes

Ender ReedPaul J. Sugg

Rick Thompson

PRODUCTION David GarciaPaul Guerra

Raul MartinezDirk Ruedas

OUTSIDE SOURCESTexas District & County Attorneys Association

Texas Association of County AuditorsCounty & District Clerks Association of Texas

County Judges & Commissioners Association of TexasJustice of the Peace & Constables Association of Texas

Sheriffs Association of TexasTax Assessor-Collectors Association of Texas

County Treasurers Association of TexasTexas Legislature Online

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2013 Legislative Analysis Report TEX A S A SSOCI ATION of COUN TIES

2013LEGISLATIVE ANALYSIS REPORT

83rd Legislature | Regular & Called Sessions

HONORABLE CONNIE HICKMANNavarro County Justice of the Peace & President

GENE TERRYExecutive Director

REX HALLAssistant Executive Director

TEXAS ASSOCIATION OF COUNTIES1210 San Antonio Street Austin, TX 78701

Toll Free: (800) 456-5974Legislative Department Fax: (512) 478-3573

www.county.org

THIS PUBLICATION IS A RESEARCH TOOL AND NOT THE COUNSEL OF AN ATTORNEY. THIS PUBLICATION IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR THE ADVICE OF AN ATTORNEY. It is provided without

warranty of any kind and, as with any research tool, should be double checked against relevant statutes, case law, attorney general opinions and advice of legal counsel e.g., your county attorney. Each public officer is

responsible for determining duties of the office or position held. Any question regarding such duties should be directed to competent legal counsel for a written opinion.

© Copyright 2013 Texas Association of Counties

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TABLE OF CONTENTSAnalysis of Adopted County Bills by Subject (Regular Session) ..................................................... 7

Adult Probation ................................................................................................................... 8

Appraisal Process ................................................................................................................. 8

Bail Bonds ............................................................................................................................ 9

County Authority ................................................................................................................. 9

County Budget ....................................................................................................................11

County Liability ................................................................................................................. 12

Courts ................................................................................................................................. 12

Criminal Justice ..................................................................................................................14

Criminal Procedure ........................................................................................................... 16

Economic Development ......................................................................................................17

Elections ..............................................................................................................................17

Emergency Management ................................................................................................... 18

Environmental ................................................................................................................... 19

Ethics .................................................................................................................................. 20

Fees ..................................................................................................................................... 21

Fire Safety ........................................................................................................................... 22

Healthcare .......................................................................................................................... 22

Indigent Defense ................................................................................................................ 22

Investments & Financial Services ...................................................................................... 23

Juvenile Justice ................................................................................................................... 23

Law Enforcement ............................................................................................................... 25

Mental Health .................................................................................................................... 29

Motor Vehicles .................................................................................................................... 31

Offenses .............................................................................................................................. 33

Open Government ............................................................................................................. 34

Personnel ............................................................................................................................ 35

Probate & Guardianship ................................................................................................... 35

Property Tax ....................................................................................................................... 36

Property Tax Exemptions .................................................................................................. 38

Public Officials ................................................................................................................... 40

Purchasing .......................................................................................................................... 41

Records ............................................................................................................................... 41

Special Districts ................................................................................................................. 41

State Budget ....................................................................................................................... 42

Subdivision Regulation ..................................................................................................... 42

Technology ......................................................................................................................... 43

Transportation ................................................................................................................... 43

Vital Statistics ..................................................................................................................... 45

Water ................................................................................................................................... 45

General Appropriations Act – SB 1 ............................................................................................... 47

Analysis of Adopted County Bills by Subject (Called Sessions) ..................................................... 79

Index of Adopted Bills by Bill Number ........................................................................................ 81

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TABLE OF CONTENTSAnalysis of Adopted County Bills by Subject (Regular Session) ..................................................... 7

Adult Probation ................................................................................................................... 8

Appraisal Process ................................................................................................................. 8

Bail Bonds ............................................................................................................................ 9

County Authority ................................................................................................................. 9

County Budget ....................................................................................................................11

County Liability ................................................................................................................. 12

Courts ................................................................................................................................. 12

Criminal Justice ..................................................................................................................14

Criminal Procedure ........................................................................................................... 16

Economic Development ......................................................................................................17

Elections ..............................................................................................................................17

Emergency Management ................................................................................................... 18

Environmental ................................................................................................................... 19

Ethics .................................................................................................................................. 20

Fees ..................................................................................................................................... 21

Fire Safety ........................................................................................................................... 22

Healthcare .......................................................................................................................... 22

Indigent Defense ................................................................................................................ 22

Investments & Financial Services ...................................................................................... 23

Juvenile Justice ................................................................................................................... 23

Law Enforcement ............................................................................................................... 25

Mental Health .................................................................................................................... 29

Motor Vehicles .................................................................................................................... 31

Offenses .............................................................................................................................. 33

Open Government ............................................................................................................. 34

Personnel ............................................................................................................................ 35

Probate & Guardianship ................................................................................................... 35

Property Tax ....................................................................................................................... 36

Property Tax Exemptions .................................................................................................. 38

Public Officials ................................................................................................................... 40

Purchasing .......................................................................................................................... 41

Records ............................................................................................................................... 41

Special Districts ................................................................................................................. 41

State Budget ....................................................................................................................... 42

Subdivision Regulation ..................................................................................................... 42

Technology ......................................................................................................................... 43

Transportation ................................................................................................................... 43

Vital Statistics ..................................................................................................................... 45

Water ................................................................................................................................... 45

General Appropriations Act – SB 1 ............................................................................................... 47

Analysis of Adopted County Bills by Subject (Called Sessions) ..................................................... 79

Index of Adopted Bills by Bill Number ........................................................................................ 81

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ANALYSIS OF ADOPTED

COUNTY BILLS BY SUBJECT (REGULAR SESSION)

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ANALYSIS OF ADOPTED

COUNTY BILLS BY SUBJECT (REGULAR SESSION)

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ANALYSIS OF ADOPTED COUNTY BILLS BY SUBJECT

(REGULAR SESSION)

ADULT PROBATION

SB 358 by Hinojosa. Relating to the use of a polygraph statement as evidence that a defendant or releasee from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice has violated a condition of release. Prohibits the revocation of community supervision and the revocation of parole if the only evidence of a probation violation or condition of release is the uncorroborated results of a polygraph exam. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 727 by Taylor. Relating to the eligibility for judge-ordered community supervision or for release on parole of certain defendants convicted of burglary with the intent to commit a sex offense. Adds burglary with the intent to commit certain sexual offenses to the list of serious and violent crimes found in Article 42.12, Section 3g of the Code of Criminal Procedure and makes the list of offenses ineligible for judge-ordered community supervision. Additionally, offenders serving sentences for burglary with the intent to commit a sex offense are ineligible for release on parole until the actual calendar time served reaches half of the sentence imposed, or 30 years, whichever is less. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1096 by Hinojosa. Relating to the monthly fee a defendant must pay during a period of community supervision. Prohibits a judge from requiring a defendant to pay the community supervision fee for any month after the period of community supervision has been terminated by the judge. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1173 by West. Relating to procedures for the sentencing and placement on community supervision of defendants charged with the commission of a state jail felony. Requires a probation officer to provide a judge with a pre-sentence investigation report, to include recommendations for probation if probation is advisable, if a defendant is charged with a state jail felony. The bill also allows a judge to impose a partial state jail sentence with release into probation with rehabilitative programming and supervision as support for these defendants. The Texas Department

of Criminal Justice shall determine the cost savings of releasing state jail felons into probation and appropriate 30 percent of those savings to local probation departments. Effective 9/1/2013.

APPRAISAL PROCESS

HB 316 by Otto. Relating to the pilot program authorizing a property owner to appeal to the State Office of Administrative Hearings regarding certain appraisal review board determinations. Amends the Government Code to establish on a permanent basis the provisions of an existing pilot program authorizing a property owner to appeal to the State Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH) an appraisal review board order determining certain protests concerning property with an appraised or market value of more than $1 million, as an alternative to filing such an appeal in district court. Limits SOAH to hearing appeals filed in 14 designated municipalities and requires an administrative law judge to set the hearing’s location based on the location of the relevant property. The 14 applicable municipalities are Amarillo, Austin, Beaumont, Corpus Christi, El Paso, Fort Worth, Houston, Lubbock, Lufkin, McAllen, Midland, San Antonio, Tyler, and Wichita Falls. Effective 1/1/2014.

HB 585 by Villarreal. Relating to ad valorem taxation; creating an offense. Creates numerous changes to appraisal district processes. Requires the Comptroller of Public Accounts (CPA) to prepare model hearing procedures that appraisal review boards must follow when establishing hearing procedures, prescribe a survey form for the public to provide comments and suggestions regarding appraisal review boards, and compile those surveys into annual reports. The bill provides that an individual is ineligible to serve on an appraisal district board of directors if the individual has either appraised property or represented property owners for compensation in Property Tax Code proceedings in the appraisal district at any time during the preceding five years.

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ANALYSIS OF ADOPTED COUNTY BILLS BY SUBJECT

(REGULAR SESSION)

ADULT PROBATION

SB 358 by Hinojosa. Relating to the use of a polygraph statement as evidence that a defendant or releasee from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice has violated a condition of release. Prohibits the revocation of community supervision and the revocation of parole if the only evidence of a probation violation or condition of release is the uncorroborated results of a polygraph exam. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 727 by Taylor. Relating to the eligibility for judge-ordered community supervision or for release on parole of certain defendants convicted of burglary with the intent to commit a sex offense. Adds burglary with the intent to commit certain sexual offenses to the list of serious and violent crimes found in Article 42.12, Section 3g of the Code of Criminal Procedure and makes the list of offenses ineligible for judge-ordered community supervision. Additionally, offenders serving sentences for burglary with the intent to commit a sex offense are ineligible for release on parole until the actual calendar time served reaches half of the sentence imposed, or 30 years, whichever is less. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1096 by Hinojosa. Relating to the monthly fee a defendant must pay during a period of community supervision. Prohibits a judge from requiring a defendant to pay the community supervision fee for any month after the period of community supervision has been terminated by the judge. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1173 by West. Relating to procedures for the sentencing and placement on community supervision of defendants charged with the commission of a state jail felony. Requires a probation officer to provide a judge with a pre-sentence investigation report, to include recommendations for probation if probation is advisable, if a defendant is charged with a state jail felony. The bill also allows a judge to impose a partial state jail sentence with release into probation with rehabilitative programming and supervision as support for these defendants. The Texas Department

of Criminal Justice shall determine the cost savings of releasing state jail felons into probation and appropriate 30 percent of those savings to local probation departments. Effective 9/1/2013.

APPRAISAL PROCESS

HB 316 by Otto. Relating to the pilot program authorizing a property owner to appeal to the State Office of Administrative Hearings regarding certain appraisal review board determinations. Amends the Government Code to establish on a permanent basis the provisions of an existing pilot program authorizing a property owner to appeal to the State Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH) an appraisal review board order determining certain protests concerning property with an appraised or market value of more than $1 million, as an alternative to filing such an appeal in district court. Limits SOAH to hearing appeals filed in 14 designated municipalities and requires an administrative law judge to set the hearing’s location based on the location of the relevant property. The 14 applicable municipalities are Amarillo, Austin, Beaumont, Corpus Christi, El Paso, Fort Worth, Houston, Lubbock, Lufkin, McAllen, Midland, San Antonio, Tyler, and Wichita Falls. Effective 1/1/2014.

HB 585 by Villarreal. Relating to ad valorem taxation; creating an offense. Creates numerous changes to appraisal district processes. Requires the Comptroller of Public Accounts (CPA) to prepare model hearing procedures that appraisal review boards must follow when establishing hearing procedures, prescribe a survey form for the public to provide comments and suggestions regarding appraisal review boards, and compile those surveys into annual reports. The bill provides that an individual is ineligible to serve on an appraisal district board of directors if the individual has either appraised property or represented property owners for compensation in Property Tax Code proceedings in the appraisal district at any time during the preceding five years.

http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/BillLookup/Text.aspx?LegSess=83R&Bill=SB358




http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/BillLookup/Text.aspx?LegSess=83R&Bill=HB316


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It also specifies professional appraisal designation and certification requirements for chief appraisers and directs the CPA to appoint a new chief appraiser if a chief appraiser becomes ineligible to serve. If the CPA appoints a new chief appraiser under the bill, the CPA would determine the new chief appraiser’s compensation and would approve the new appraisal district budget.

HB 585 also requires an appraisal district board for a county with a population of 120,000 or more to appoint a taxpayer liaison officer who has certain specified duties and must accept taxpayer complaints. Additionally, the appraisal review board of counties with a population of 120,000 or more must be appointed by local administrative district judges; the previous population bracket was 3.3 million.

Furthermore, the bill authorizes a taxpayer to sue a taxing unit in district court to compel the payment of a tax refund; if the taxpayer prevails, the taxpayer may be awarded the costs of court and reasonable attorney’s fees in an amount not to exceed the greater of $1500 or 30 percent of the total amount of the refund determined by the court. The bill also raises the appraisal district’s property tax protest burden of proof to a clear and convincing evidence standard if the appraised value of the property was lowered in the preceding year and other requirements are satisfied. Additionally, the bill authorizes a protest petition to include multiple properties that are owned or leased by the same person and are of a similar type or are part of the same economic unit and would typically sell as a single property, among several other provisions. Effective 6/14/2013, except for certain sections.

HB 2500 by Bohac. Relating to the appraisal for ad valorem tax purposes of solar energy property. Requires a chief appraiser to use the cost method of appraisal to determine the market value of solar energy properties. Effective 1/1/2014.

BAIL BONDS

HB 1442 by Fletcher. Relating to the authority of a county to deposit fees collected by a county bail bond board in a separate county fund. Requires a county bail bond board to deposit collected fees in the general fund of the county or in a separate county fund established for this purpose. Bail bond fees,

previously commingled in the general fund, can now be deposited in a separate county fund for purposes of validating and distinguishing bail bond fees from other revenues at year-end. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 1562 by Harless. Relating to notice provided when a bail bond surety is in default. Requires the clerk of a court, where a surety is in default on a bail bond for an offense other than a Class C misdemeanor, to send notice of the default by certified mail to the last known address of the surety. Effective 9/1/2013.

COUNTY AUTHORITY

HB 477 by Harper-Brown. Relating to the authority of a county to advertise on leased vehicles. Expands the procedure which allows a commissioners court to lease advertising space to another entity to include a vehicle leased by the county, with the vehicle owner’s consent. Effective 5/16/2013.

HB 699 by Davis, John. Relating to the location of certain public sales of real property. Allows the commissioners court to designate an area other than at the county courthouse where public sales of real property taken in execution on judgements may take place. The area must be a public place within a reasonable proximity of the courthouse and in a location as accessible to the public as the courthouse door. The commissioners court is required to record that designation in the real property records of the county. Effective 10/1/2013.

HB 714 by Kuempel. Relating to an agreement between a county and the Department of Public Safety for the joint operation of certain fixed-site facilities. Authorizes a county and the Department of Public Safety to enter into an agreement for the joint operation of a fixed-site facility, such as a weigh station, located within the boundaries of the county. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 1044 by Eiland. Relating to the operation of all-terrain vehicles and recreational off-highway vehicles; creating an offense. Authorizes the state, a county, or municipality to register an all-terrain vehicle or a recreational off-highway vehicle that is owned by the state, county, or municipality for operation on a public beach or highway, and allows the operation of an all-terrain vehicle on a beach if the operator has a valid driver’s license and the beach is open to

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It also specifies professional appraisal designation and certification requirements for chief appraisers and directs the CPA to appoint a new chief appraiser if a chief appraiser becomes ineligible to serve. If the CPA appoints a new chief appraiser under the bill, the CPA would determine the new chief appraiser’s compensation and would approve the new appraisal district budget.

HB 585 also requires an appraisal district board for a county with a population of 120,000 or more to appoint a taxpayer liaison officer who has certain specified duties and must accept taxpayer complaints. Additionally, the appraisal review board of counties with a population of 120,000 or more must be appointed by local administrative district judges; the previous population bracket was 3.3 million.

Furthermore, the bill authorizes a taxpayer to sue a taxing unit in district court to compel the payment of a tax refund; if the taxpayer prevails, the taxpayer may be awarded the costs of court and reasonable attorney’s fees in an amount not to exceed the greater of $1500 or 30 percent of the total amount of the refund determined by the court. The bill also raises the appraisal district’s property tax protest burden of proof to a clear and convincing evidence standard if the appraised value of the property was lowered in the preceding year and other requirements are satisfied. Additionally, the bill authorizes a protest petition to include multiple properties that are owned or leased by the same person and are of a similar type or are part of the same economic unit and would typically sell as a single property, among several other provisions. Effective 6/14/2013, except for certain sections.

HB 2500 by Bohac. Relating to the appraisal for ad valorem tax purposes of solar energy property. Requires a chief appraiser to use the cost method of appraisal to determine the market value of solar energy properties. Effective 1/1/2014.

BAIL BONDS

HB 1442 by Fletcher. Relating to the authority of a county to deposit fees collected by a county bail bond board in a separate county fund. Requires a county bail bond board to deposit collected fees in the general fund of the county or in a separate county fund established for this purpose. Bail bond fees,

previously commingled in the general fund, can now be deposited in a separate county fund for purposes of validating and distinguishing bail bond fees from other revenues at year-end. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 1562 by Harless. Relating to notice provided when a bail bond surety is in default. Requires the clerk of a court, where a surety is in default on a bail bond for an offense other than a Class C misdemeanor, to send notice of the default by certified mail to the last known address of the surety. Effective 9/1/2013.

COUNTY AUTHORITY

HB 477 by Harper-Brown. Relating to the authority of a county to advertise on leased vehicles. Expands the procedure which allows a commissioners court to lease advertising space to another entity to include a vehicle leased by the county, with the vehicle owner’s consent. Effective 5/16/2013.

HB 699 by Davis, John. Relating to the location of certain public sales of real property. Allows the commissioners court to designate an area other than at the county courthouse where public sales of real property taken in execution on judgements may take place. The area must be a public place within a reasonable proximity of the courthouse and in a location as accessible to the public as the courthouse door. The commissioners court is required to record that designation in the real property records of the county. Effective 10/1/2013.

HB 714 by Kuempel. Relating to an agreement between a county and the Department of Public Safety for the joint operation of certain fixed-site facilities. Authorizes a county and the Department of Public Safety to enter into an agreement for the joint operation of a fixed-site facility, such as a weigh station, located within the boundaries of the county. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 1044 by Eiland. Relating to the operation of all-terrain vehicles and recreational off-highway vehicles; creating an offense. Authorizes the state, a county, or municipality to register an all-terrain vehicle or a recreational off-highway vehicle that is owned by the state, county, or municipality for operation on a public beach or highway, and allows the operation of an all-terrain vehicle on a beach if the operator has a valid driver’s license and the beach is open to








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motor-vehicle traffic. Additionally, the bill authorizes the Texas Department of Transportation or a county or municipality to prohibit the operation of an all-terrain vehicle on a beach if a determination is made that the prohibition is necessary in the interest of safety. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 1127 by Smith. Relating to the regulation of game rooms by certain counties; providing penalties; authorizing a fee. Allows Harris County to regulate the operation of game rooms containing certain amusement redemption machines, including restricting the location of game rooms to specified areas of the county. The county may also prohibit the location of a game room within a prescribed distance of a school, church or residential neighborhood, and inspect any business that contains six or more amusement redemption machines to determine whether the business is in compliance with applicable regulations. Additionally, the county may require an owner to obtain a license or permit to operate and impose a fee not to exceed $1,000. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 2021 by Rodriguez, Eddie. Relating to the authority of a municipality or county to contract for the collection of certain amounts; authorizing a fee. Allows a commissioners court to contract with a private attorney or public or private vendor for the collection of an amount owed to the county relating to a civil case, including the unpaid fine, fee or court cost if the amount is more than 60 days overdue. It also allows the county to authorize the addition of a collection fee of 30 percent of the amount referred to compensate the contracted collector. This does not apply to the collection of commercial bail bonds. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 2123 by Guillen. Relating to the regulation of game rooms in certain counties; providing penalties; authorizing a fee. Allows Willacy County to regulate the operation of game rooms containing certain amusement redemption machines, including restricting the location of game rooms to specified areas of the county. The county may also prohibit the location of a game room within a prescribed distance of a school, church or residential neighborhood, and inspect any business that contains six or more amusement redemption machines to determine whether the business is in compliance with applicable regulations. Additionally, the county may require an

owner to obtain a license or permit to operate and impose a fee not to exceed $1,000. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 2825 by King, Ken. Relating to the authority of a county to establish a centralized sex offender registration authority. Removes the population bracket to allow a commissioners court in any county to designate the office of the sheriff or police chief as the mandatory countywide sex offender registration agency. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 2902 by Thompson, Ed. Relating to lost, damaged, or overdue county library property; authorizing fines; authorizing a civil penalty. Allows a commissioners court to establish reasonable fines to be collected by a county library for lost, damaged, or overdue library property; the fines must be deposited in the county free library fund. Additionally, the bill allows a commissioners court to adopt reasonable regulations that prohibit a person from abusing library services by intentionally failing to pay a library fine or return library property; it authorizes a civil penalty of not more than $100 for each violation and authorizes a county to bring suit to recover a civil penalty. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 186 by Carona. Relating to the abatement of mosquitoes in stagnant water located on certain uninhabited residential property. Grants counties the authority to use a larvicide in the stagnant waters of abandoned homes or of homes that are uninhabited due to foreclosure if there is an immediate danger to the health, life, or safety of any person. Effective 5/10/2013.

SB 360 by Watson. Relating to methods used by an animal shelter to euthanize a dog or cat. Eliminates the use of commercially compressed carbon monoxide as a method of euthanasia in animal shelters. Effective 5/10/2013.

SB 634 by Davis. Relating to regulating faulty on-site sewage disposal systems in the unincorporated areas of a county as a public nuisance; providing a criminal penalty. Allows a county to regulate surface discharge from an on-site sewage disposal system as a “public nuisance” which allows for criminal penalties should the property owner fail to abate the nuisance after a court order. Effective 9/1/2013.

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motor-vehicle traffic. Additionally, the bill authorizes the Texas Department of Transportation or a county or municipality to prohibit the operation of an all-terrain vehicle on a beach if a determination is made that the prohibition is necessary in the interest of safety. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 1127 by Smith. Relating to the regulation of game rooms by certain counties; providing penalties; authorizing a fee. Allows Harris County to regulate the operation of game rooms containing certain amusement redemption machines, including restricting the location of game rooms to specified areas of the county. The county may also prohibit the location of a game room within a prescribed distance of a school, church or residential neighborhood, and inspect any business that contains six or more amusement redemption machines to determine whether the business is in compliance with applicable regulations. Additionally, the county may require an owner to obtain a license or permit to operate and impose a fee not to exceed $1,000. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 2021 by Rodriguez, Eddie. Relating to the authority of a municipality or county to contract for the collection of certain amounts; authorizing a fee. Allows a commissioners court to contract with a private attorney or public or private vendor for the collection of an amount owed to the county relating to a civil case, including the unpaid fine, fee or court cost if the amount is more than 60 days overdue. It also allows the county to authorize the addition of a collection fee of 30 percent of the amount referred to compensate the contracted collector. This does not apply to the collection of commercial bail bonds. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 2123 by Guillen. Relating to the regulation of game rooms in certain counties; providing penalties; authorizing a fee. Allows Willacy County to regulate the operation of game rooms containing certain amusement redemption machines, including restricting the location of game rooms to specified areas of the county. The county may also prohibit the location of a game room within a prescribed distance of a school, church or residential neighborhood, and inspect any business that contains six or more amusement redemption machines to determine whether the business is in compliance with applicable regulations. Additionally, the county may require an

owner to obtain a license or permit to operate and impose a fee not to exceed $1,000. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 2825 by King, Ken. Relating to the authority of a county to establish a centralized sex offender registration authority. Removes the population bracket to allow a commissioners court in any county to designate the office of the sheriff or police chief as the mandatory countywide sex offender registration agency. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 2902 by Thompson, Ed. Relating to lost, damaged, or overdue county library property; authorizing fines; authorizing a civil penalty. Allows a commissioners court to establish reasonable fines to be collected by a county library for lost, damaged, or overdue library property; the fines must be deposited in the county free library fund. Additionally, the bill allows a commissioners court to adopt reasonable regulations that prohibit a person from abusing library services by intentionally failing to pay a library fine or return library property; it authorizes a civil penalty of not more than $100 for each violation and authorizes a county to bring suit to recover a civil penalty. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 186 by Carona. Relating to the abatement of mosquitoes in stagnant water located on certain uninhabited residential property. Grants counties the authority to use a larvicide in the stagnant waters of abandoned homes or of homes that are uninhabited due to foreclosure if there is an immediate danger to the health, life, or safety of any person. Effective 5/10/2013.

SB 360 by Watson. Relating to methods used by an animal shelter to euthanize a dog or cat. Eliminates the use of commercially compressed carbon monoxide as a method of euthanasia in animal shelters. Effective 5/10/2013.

SB 634 by Davis. Relating to regulating faulty on-site sewage disposal systems in the unincorporated areas of a county as a public nuisance; providing a criminal penalty. Allows a county to regulate surface discharge from an on-site sewage disposal system as a “public nuisance” which allows for criminal penalties should the property owner fail to abate the nuisance after a court order. Effective 9/1/2013.









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SB 987 by Hegar. Relating to allowing the attorney general to obtain an injunction against a municipality or county that adopts prohibited regulations regarding firearms, ammunition, or firearm supplies. Authorizes the attorney general to seek a temporary or permanent injunction against a county adopting an unauthorized regulation relating to the transfer, keeping, licensing, or registration of firearms, ammunition, or firearm supplies, or the discharge of a firearm at a sport shooting range, other than a regulation relating to the discharge of a firearm at an outdoor sport shooting range as provided by Subchapter B, Chapter 235 of the Local Government Code. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 1035 by Carona. Relating to alcoholic beverage license applications and fees. Changes the alcoholic beverage license process. Requires a person to file an application for a license to manufacture, distribute, or sell beer with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) instead of the county judge, except in cases of protest; if TABC finds that reasonable grounds exist for the protest, TABC must reject the protested application and require the applicant to file the application with the county judge and submit to a hearing, which must be held not less than 5 nor more than 10 days after the county judge receives the protested application. The hearing fee, which is paid to the county clerk, is increased from $5 to $25. The bill also clarifies approved methods of payments for a license by a licensee payable to the comptroller, who then transmits five percent of the license fee to the tax assessor collector of the county. Additionally, it requires that the notice of an original application for a beer license be published in a newspaper by the applicant, instead of the county clerk, among other provisions. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1400 by Estes. Relating to the municipal and county regulation of air guns. Prevents counties from regulating the transfer, ownership, possession, or transportation of air guns, such as BB guns. Additionally, the bill specifically authorizes a commissioners court to prohibit or otherwise regulate the discharge of air guns on lots that are 10 acres or smaller and are located in the unincorporated area of the county in a subdivision for which a plat is required to be filed under Chapter 232 of the Local Government Code. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 1729 by Nichols. Relating to an agreement between the Department of Public Safety and a county for the provision of renewal and duplicate driver’s license and other identification certificate services; authorizing a fee. Allows the Department of Public Safety (DPS) to establish a pilot program for driver’s license renewal services, election identification certificates, and personal identification certificates in certain counties. Specifically, the legislation allows DPS to establish a pilot program in: not more than three counties with a population of 50,000 or less; not more than three counties with a population of more than 50,000 but less than 1,000,001; not more than two counties with a population of more than one million; and any county in which the department operates a driver’s license office as a scheduled or mobile office. Authorizes DPS to enter into an agreement with a county commissioners court to permit county employees to provide certain administrative and ministerial services at a county office relating to the issuance of those documents. A county office has the authority to decline or consent to provide the license and certificate services. The bill requires DPS to provide all equipment and supplies necessary to perform the services, requires DPS to adopt rules to administer the pilot program, and authorizes a county that provides the services to collect an additional fee of up to $5 for each transaction provided that relates to driver’s license and personal identification certificate services only. Effective 6/14/2013.

COUNTY BUDGET

SB 656 by Paxton. Relating to providing transparency in the budget adoption process of municipalities and counties. Amends the Local Government Code to require a record vote on the adoption of a proposed budget by the governing body of a municipality or by a county commissioners court and to require the adopted budget’s cover page to specify whether the budget will raise more, less or the same amount of property tax revenue compared to the previous budget, as well as the amount of the difference and percent change in tax revenue, if any. Also requires the cover page to detail the record vote and to list the specified property tax rate information and the total amount of the taxing unit’s debt obligations. A copy of the record

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SB 987 by Hegar. Relating to allowing the attorney general to obtain an injunction against a municipality or county that adopts prohibited regulations regarding firearms, ammunition, or firearm supplies. Authorizes the attorney general to seek a temporary or permanent injunction against a county adopting an unauthorized regulation relating to the transfer, keeping, licensing, or registration of firearms, ammunition, or firearm supplies, or the discharge of a firearm at a sport shooting range, other than a regulation relating to the discharge of a firearm at an outdoor sport shooting range as provided by Subchapter B, Chapter 235 of the Local Government Code. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 1035 by Carona. Relating to alcoholic beverage license applications and fees. Changes the alcoholic beverage license process. Requires a person to file an application for a license to manufacture, distribute, or sell beer with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) instead of the county judge, except in cases of protest; if TABC finds that reasonable grounds exist for the protest, TABC must reject the protested application and require the applicant to file the application with the county judge and submit to a hearing, which must be held not less than 5 nor more than 10 days after the county judge receives the protested application. The hearing fee, which is paid to the county clerk, is increased from $5 to $25. The bill also clarifies approved methods of payments for a license by a licensee payable to the comptroller, who then transmits five percent of the license fee to the tax assessor collector of the county. Additionally, it requires that the notice of an original application for a beer license be published in a newspaper by the applicant, instead of the county clerk, among other provisions. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1400 by Estes. Relating to the municipal and county regulation of air guns. Prevents counties from regulating the transfer, ownership, possession, or transportation of air guns, such as BB guns. Additionally, the bill specifically authorizes a commissioners court to prohibit or otherwise regulate the discharge of air guns on lots that are 10 acres or smaller and are located in the unincorporated area of the county in a subdivision for which a plat is required to be filed under Chapter 232 of the Local Government Code. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 1729 by Nichols. Relating to an agreement between the Department of Public Safety and a county for the provision of renewal and duplicate driver’s license and other identification certificate services; authorizing a fee. Allows the Department of Public Safety (DPS) to establish a pilot program for driver’s license renewal services, election identification certificates, and personal identification certificates in certain counties. Specifically, the legislation allows DPS to establish a pilot program in: not more than three counties with a population of 50,000 or less; not more than three counties with a population of more than 50,000 but less than 1,000,001; not more than two counties with a population of more than one million; and any county in which the department operates a driver’s license office as a scheduled or mobile office. Authorizes DPS to enter into an agreement with a county commissioners court to permit county employees to provide certain administrative and ministerial services at a county office relating to the issuance of those documents. A county office has the authority to decline or consent to provide the license and certificate services. The bill requires DPS to provide all equipment and supplies necessary to perform the services, requires DPS to adopt rules to administer the pilot program, and authorizes a county that provides the services to collect an additional fee of up to $5 for each transaction provided that relates to driver’s license and personal identification certificate services only. Effective 6/14/2013.

COUNTY BUDGET

SB 656 by Paxton. Relating to providing transparency in the budget adoption process of municipalities and counties. Amends the Local Government Code to require a record vote on the adoption of a proposed budget by the governing body of a municipality or by a county commissioners court and to require the adopted budget’s cover page to specify whether the budget will raise more, less or the same amount of property tax revenue compared to the previous budget, as well as the amount of the difference and percent change in tax revenue, if any. Also requires the cover page to detail the record vote and to list the specified property tax rate information and the total amount of the taxing unit’s debt obligations. A copy of the record






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vote must be posted on the county’s Internet website, if the county maintains a website, for at least one year from the date of the budget’s adoption.

It directs the governing body to ensure that the budget’s cover page is amended to include the property tax rates for the current fiscal year if the rates are not included on the cover page when the budget is filed with the municipal or county clerk; to file an amended cover page with that clerk; and to ensure that the amended cover page is posted on the municipality’s or county’s website. Effective 9/1/2013.

COUNTY LIABILITY

HB 581 by Howard. Relating to the waiver of sovereign immunity in certain employment lawsuits by nurses. Waives sovereign immunity and authorizes a state or local governmental entity to be sued by a nurse employed by a hospital operated by or on behalf of a state or local governmental entity if certain unlawful retaliation is alleged. The bill sets forth the specific reporting standards that must be met in order for relief to be granted for an alleged violation and applies certain provisions of Chapter 554 of the Government Code to the lawsuits, including requiring a nurse employed by a state agency or local government to seek relief within 90 days on an action, as well as use the grievance or appeal procedures of the governmental entity before filing a lawsuit. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 531 by Duncan. Relating to self-insurance funds established by governmental units. Clarifies the authority of local government self-insurance funds to purchase reinsurance; provides for the satisfaction of proof of insurance coverage requirements for a governmental unit through a certificate of coverage issued by the governmental unit’s self-insurance fund. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 764 by Watson. Relating to a limitation on liability for prescribed burning conducted on agricultural or conservation land. Provides that a governmental unit that is an owner, lessee, or occupant of agricultural or conservation land and has a self-insurance program that provides a certain amount of specified coverage is not liable for property damage or for injury or death to persons caused by or resulting from prescribed burning conducted on the land

if the prescribed burning is conducted under the supervision of a certified and insured prescribed burn manager. Effective 5/25/2013.

COURTS

HB 232 by Guillen. Relating to allowing certain minors convicted of certain alcohol offenses to perform community service instead of attending an alcohol awareness program. Authorizes a court to allow a defendant to take a state-approved online alcohol awareness program or require the defendant to perform not fewer than eight hours of certain community service instead of attending the alcohol awareness program if the defendant resides in a county with a population of 75,000 or less and access to a program is not readily available in the county. The bill also sets forth criteria for determining a defendant’s residence. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 338 by Guillen. Relating to the court in which a hearing regarding the towing of a motor vehicle may be held. Authorizes a hearing regarding a towed motor vehicle or booted vehicle to be held in any justice court having jurisdiction in the county, instead of only in the precinct from which the vehicle was towed or in which the parking facility is located, among other provisions. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 438 by Dutton. Relating to the courts authorized to issue an occupational driver’s license. Allows justice courts to adjudicate occupational driver’s license cases. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 570 by Alonzo. Relating to issuance of a magistrate’s order for emergency protection. Provides that a victim of an offense does not have to be present when an order for emergency protection is issued; allows a magistrate or designee to serve the defendant a copy of the order either in person or electronically; and, requires the magistrate to make a separate record of the service in written or electronic format. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 833 by Giddings. Relating to certain procedures regarding an application for a writ of habeas corpus filed in a noncapital felony case. Requires a court reporter to immediately transmit a transcript of a hearing held in relation to an application for a writ of habeas in certain cases to the clerk of the convicting court. Effective 9/1/2013.

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vote must be posted on the county’s Internet website, if the county maintains a website, for at least one year from the date of the budget’s adoption.

It directs the governing body to ensure that the budget’s cover page is amended to include the property tax rates for the current fiscal year if the rates are not included on the cover page when the budget is filed with the municipal or county clerk; to file an amended cover page with that clerk; and to ensure that the amended cover page is posted on the municipality’s or county’s website. Effective 9/1/2013.

COUNTY LIABILITY

HB 581 by Howard. Relating to the waiver of sovereign immunity in certain employment lawsuits by nurses. Waives sovereign immunity and authorizes a state or local governmental entity to be sued by a nurse employed by a hospital operated by or on behalf of a state or local governmental entity if certain unlawful retaliation is alleged. The bill sets forth the specific reporting standards that must be met in order for relief to be granted for an alleged violation and applies certain provisions of Chapter 554 of the Government Code to the lawsuits, including requiring a nurse employed by a state agency or local government to seek relief within 90 days on an action, as well as use the grievance or appeal procedures of the governmental entity before filing a lawsuit. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 531 by Duncan. Relating to self-insurance funds established by governmental units. Clarifies the authority of local government self-insurance funds to purchase reinsurance; provides for the satisfaction of proof of insurance coverage requirements for a governmental unit through a certificate of coverage issued by the governmental unit’s self-insurance fund. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 764 by Watson. Relating to a limitation on liability for prescribed burning conducted on agricultural or conservation land. Provides that a governmental unit that is an owner, lessee, or occupant of agricultural or conservation land and has a self-insurance program that provides a certain amount of specified coverage is not liable for property damage or for injury or death to persons caused by or resulting from prescribed burning conducted on the land

if the prescribed burning is conducted under the supervision of a certified and insured prescribed burn manager. Effective 5/25/2013.

COURTS

HB 232 by Guillen. Relating to allowing certain minors convicted of certain alcohol offenses to perform community service instead of attending an alcohol awareness program. Authorizes a court to allow a defendant to take a state-approved online alcohol awareness program or require the defendant to perform not fewer than eight hours of certain community service instead of attending the alcohol awareness program if the defendant resides in a county with a population of 75,000 or less and access to a program is not readily available in the county. The bill also sets forth criteria for determining a defendant’s residence. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 338 by Guillen. Relating to the court in which a hearing regarding the towing of a motor vehicle may be held. Authorizes a hearing regarding a towed motor vehicle or booted vehicle to be held in any justice court having jurisdiction in the county, instead of only in the precinct from which the vehicle was towed or in which the parking facility is located, among other provisions. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 438 by Dutton. Relating to the courts authorized to issue an occupational driver’s license. Allows justice courts to adjudicate occupational driver’s license cases. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 570 by Alonzo. Relating to issuance of a magistrate’s order for emergency protection. Provides that a victim of an offense does not have to be present when an order for emergency protection is issued; allows a magistrate or designee to serve the defendant a copy of the order either in person or electronically; and, requires the magistrate to make a separate record of the service in written or electronic format. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 833 by Giddings. Relating to certain procedures regarding an application for a writ of habeas corpus filed in a noncapital felony case. Requires a court reporter to immediately transmit a transcript of a hearing held in relation to an application for a writ of habeas in certain cases to the clerk of the convicting court. Effective 9/1/2013.









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HB 1222 by Turner, Chris. Relating to venue for certain alleged violations or offenses under the Water Safety Act. Authorizes municipal courts to have jurisdiction for certain offenses committed under the Water Safety Act, expanding the venues with jurisdiction over these offenses beyond justice and county courts. Effective 5/25/2013.

HB 1245 by Turner, Sylvester. Relating to the allocation of money in the judicial and court personnel training fund. Allows the personnel of criminal defense attorneys who regularly represent indigent defendants in criminal matters to access funding from the judicial and court personnel training fund. Specifies that an allocation of funds to provide for continuing legal education, technical assistance, and other support programs for such personnel must come from the grant of legal funds made to the court of criminal appeals under Section 56.003(f) of the Government Code, which grants funds to statewide professional associations of prosecuting attorneys, certain criminal defense attorneys, justices of the peace, and other entities. Effective 9/1/2014.

HB 1263 by Lewis. Relating to the delay in the implementation of the abolishment of small claims courts. Delays the effective date of the abolishment of small claims courts to August 31, 2013. Effective 4/10/2013.

HB 1435 by Darby. Relating to certain notices, reports, and descriptions provided by or filed with court and county clerks. The County and District Clerks’ Association omnibus bill does the following, among other provisions: (1) when a person who received a “Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity” adjudication is released from a state hospital, the clerk of the court, with the assistance of the victim assistance coordinator, will notify the victim of the release; (2) removes the Class C misdemeanor offense for a clerk in a juvenile court who fails to report a Juvenile Justice Information System disposition; and, (3) modifies the requirement that the clerk must provide notice of a protective order against a person in the military to certain military officials by specifying that such requirement only exists if the applicant for the protective order has provided the address to which the notice should be provided. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 3259 by Wu. Relating to certain investigation records in child abuse and neglect cases and to

information regarding a child available to prospective adoptive parents. Requires the Department of Family and Protective Services to notify prospective adoptive parents that they have the right to review the records containing information and investigations for the child being placed for adoption. Amends current law relating to the ownership of and access to certain investigation records in child abuse and neglect cases. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 270 by Seliger. Relating to a limited exception to the prohibition on releasing personal information about a juror collected during the jury selection process in certain cases. Allows a defense attorney to share juror information with a successor defense attorney in a habeas corpus proceeding in a death penalty case, thereby eliminating the need for a court order to do so. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 354 by West. Relating to permitting electronic delivery of certain documents in a criminal case. Allows secure electronic mail as an authorized means of transmission of certain documents in certain criminal cases, including specified applications for writs of habeas corpus and certificates of analysis. Effective 5/18/2013.

SB 462 by Huffman. Relating to specialty court programs in this state. Prohibits a specialty court program from operating until the judge, magistrate, or coordinator provides the following information to the governor’s criminal justice division: written notice of the program; any resolution or other declaration under which the program was established; as well as, a copy of the applicable community justice plan that incorporates duties related to supervision that will be required under the program. Additionally, the program must receive written verification of its compliance with these requirements from the division before it can operate. The bill also requires a specialty court program to comply with all programmatic best practices recommended by the Specialty Courts Advisory Council and report any information required by the governor’s criminal justice division regarding the performance of the program. Under the provisions of the bill, a specialty court program that fails to comply with any of these specified requirements is not eligible to receive any state or federal grant funds administered by any state agency. Effective 9/1/2013.

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HB 1222 by Turner, Chris. Relating to venue for certain alleged violations or offenses under the Water Safety Act. Authorizes municipal courts to have jurisdiction for certain offenses committed under the Water Safety Act, expanding the venues with jurisdiction over these offenses beyond justice and county courts. Effective 5/25/2013.

HB 1245 by Turner, Sylvester. Relating to the allocation of money in the judicial and court personnel training fund. Allows the personnel of criminal defense attorneys who regularly represent indigent defendants in criminal matters to access funding from the judicial and court personnel training fund. Specifies that an allocation of funds to provide for continuing legal education, technical assistance, and other support programs for such personnel must come from the grant of legal funds made to the court of criminal appeals under Section 56.003(f) of the Government Code, which grants funds to statewide professional associations of prosecuting attorneys, certain criminal defense attorneys, justices of the peace, and other entities. Effective 9/1/2014.

HB 1263 by Lewis. Relating to the delay in the implementation of the abolishment of small claims courts. Delays the effective date of the abolishment of small claims courts to August 31, 2013. Effective 4/10/2013.

HB 1435 by Darby. Relating to certain notices, reports, and descriptions provided by or filed with court and county clerks. The County and District Clerks’ Association omnibus bill does the following, among other provisions: (1) when a person who received a “Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity” adjudication is released from a state hospital, the clerk of the court, with the assistance of the victim assistance coordinator, will notify the victim of the release; (2) removes the Class C misdemeanor offense for a clerk in a juvenile court who fails to report a Juvenile Justice Information System disposition; and, (3) modifies the requirement that the clerk must provide notice of a protective order against a person in the military to certain military officials by specifying that such requirement only exists if the applicant for the protective order has provided the address to which the notice should be provided. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 3259 by Wu. Relating to certain investigation records in child abuse and neglect cases and to

information regarding a child available to prospective adoptive parents. Requires the Department of Family and Protective Services to notify prospective adoptive parents that they have the right to review the records containing information and investigations for the child being placed for adoption. Amends current law relating to the ownership of and access to certain investigation records in child abuse and neglect cases. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 270 by Seliger. Relating to a limited exception to the prohibition on releasing personal information about a juror collected during the jury selection process in certain cases. Allows a defense attorney to share juror information with a successor defense attorney in a habeas corpus proceeding in a death penalty case, thereby eliminating the need for a court order to do so. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 354 by West. Relating to permitting electronic delivery of certain documents in a criminal case. Allows secure electronic mail as an authorized means of transmission of certain documents in certain criminal cases, including specified applications for writs of habeas corpus and certificates of analysis. Effective 5/18/2013.

SB 462 by Huffman. Relating to specialty court programs in this state. Prohibits a specialty court program from operating until the judge, magistrate, or coordinator provides the following information to the governor’s criminal justice division: written notice of the program; any resolution or other declaration under which the program was established; as well as, a copy of the applicable community justice plan that incorporates duties related to supervision that will be required under the program. Additionally, the program must receive written verification of its compliance with these requirements from the division before it can operate. The bill also requires a specialty court program to comply with all programmatic best practices recommended by the Specialty Courts Advisory Council and report any information required by the governor’s criminal justice division regarding the performance of the program. Under the provisions of the bill, a specialty court program that fails to comply with any of these specified requirements is not eligible to receive any state or federal grant funds administered by any state agency. Effective 9/1/2013.









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SB 484 by Whitmire. Relating to the creation of a prostitution prevention program; authorizing a fee. Requires a commissioners court in a county with a population of more than 200,000 to establish a prostitution prevention program for defendants charged with a prostitution offense if a municipality in the county has not established such a program and sufficient federal or state funding is received for that purpose; counties that are mandated to establish a program must apply for federal and state funds and counties that do not establish and maintain a program as required are ineligible to receive state funds for a community supervision and corrections department. It authorizes certain fees that may be collected from participants in the program, sets forth certain program powers and duties, and makes the authority to establish the program permissive in counties with populations of 200,000 or less. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 560 by Ellis. Relating to authorization for biweekly installment payments for the compensation of certain justices, judges, and district attorneys. Allows a commissioners court to authorize the salaries of certain statutory county court judges, appellate court justices and district judges to be paid in biweekly installments instead of monthly installments. Requires the Harris County Commissioners Court to pay the district attorney and county judge in equal biweekly installments instead of monthly installments. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 679 by Duncan. Relating to certain records and supporting affidavits filed as evidence in certain actions. Stipulates that the records attached to a business record affidavit concerning costs and necessity of services are not required to be filed with the clerk of the court before trial commences except as provided by the Texas Rules of Evidence, among other provisions. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 966 by West. Relating to creation of the Judicial Branch Certification Commission and the consolidation of judicial profession regulation; imposing penalties; authorizing fees. Establishes the Judicial Branch Certification Commission, which will be responsible for regulating court reporters, guardians, process servers, and court interpreters, and is administratively attached to the Office of Court Administration. The bill provides that the

Commission consists of 9 members appointed by the state supreme court, and authorizes the supreme court to adopt rules governing the certification, registration, and licensing of persons regulated by the Commission. Effective 9/1/2014, except Sections 3.02(a) and (b) take effect 9/1/2013.

SB 1237 by Schwertner. Relating to referral of disputes for alternative dispute resolution, including victim-directed referrals; authorizing a fee. Allows a commissioners court to make reasonable rules specifying whether criminal cases may be referred to an alternative dispute resolution system established by the commissioners court. Authorizes a judge in a county in which an alternative dispute resolution system has been established to refer certain criminal cases to the system if the system accepts such cases, the attorney representing the state has requested it, and both the victim and the defendant consent to the referral. Allows an entity that provides services for the resolution of disputes to collect a reasonable fee set by the commissioners court. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1317 by Whitmire. Relating to persons authorized to perform a marriage ceremony. Allows a retired municipal judge and a retired judge or magistrate of a federal court of this state who is fully vested in the Federal Employees Retirement System to perform a marriage ceremony. Additionally, the bill extends the expiration date of marriage licenses, stipulating that the license expires if a marriage ceremony has not been conducted before the 90th day (instead of the 31st day) after the date the license is issued. Effective 9/1/2013.

CRIMINAL JUSTICE

HB 899 by Perry. Relating to certain rights of victims, guardians of victims, and close relatives of deceased victims in the criminal justice system. Entitles a victim, guardian of a victim or close relative of a deceased victim in a capital felony case to certain rights, including: the right to receive from the court a written explanation of defense-initiated victim outreach if the court has authorized expenditures for a defense-initiated victim-outreach specialist; the right to not be contacted by the victim outreach specialist unless written consent to the contact has been provided to the court; and, the right to

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SB 484 by Whitmire. Relating to the creation of a prostitution prevention program; authorizing a fee. Requires a commissioners court in a county with a population of more than 200,000 to establish a prostitution prevention program for defendants charged with a prostitution offense if a municipality in the county has not established such a program and sufficient federal or state funding is received for that purpose; counties that are mandated to establish a program must apply for federal and state funds and counties that do not establish and maintain a program as required are ineligible to receive state funds for a community supervision and corrections department. It authorizes certain fees that may be collected from participants in the program, sets forth certain program powers and duties, and makes the authority to establish the program permissive in counties with populations of 200,000 or less. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 560 by Ellis. Relating to authorization for biweekly installment payments for the compensation of certain justices, judges, and district attorneys. Allows a commissioners court to authorize the salaries of certain statutory county court judges, appellate court justices and district judges to be paid in biweekly installments instead of monthly installments. Requires the Harris County Commissioners Court to pay the district attorney and county judge in equal biweekly installments instead of monthly installments. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 679 by Duncan. Relating to certain records and supporting affidavits filed as evidence in certain actions. Stipulates that the records attached to a business record affidavit concerning costs and necessity of services are not required to be filed with the clerk of the court before trial commences except as provided by the Texas Rules of Evidence, among other provisions. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 966 by West. Relating to creation of the Judicial Branch Certification Commission and the consolidation of judicial profession regulation; imposing penalties; authorizing fees. Establishes the Judicial Branch Certification Commission, which will be responsible for regulating court reporters, guardians, process servers, and court interpreters, and is administratively attached to the Office of Court Administration. The bill provides that the

Commission consists of 9 members appointed by the state supreme court, and authorizes the supreme court to adopt rules governing the certification, registration, and licensing of persons regulated by the Commission. Effective 9/1/2014, except Sections 3.02(a) and (b) take effect 9/1/2013.

SB 1237 by Schwertner. Relating to referral of disputes for alternative dispute resolution, including victim-directed referrals; authorizing a fee. Allows a commissioners court to make reasonable rules specifying whether criminal cases may be referred to an alternative dispute resolution system established by the commissioners court. Authorizes a judge in a county in which an alternative dispute resolution system has been established to refer certain criminal cases to the system if the system accepts such cases, the attorney representing the state has requested it, and both the victim and the defendant consent to the referral. Allows an entity that provides services for the resolution of disputes to collect a reasonable fee set by the commissioners court. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1317 by Whitmire. Relating to persons authorized to perform a marriage ceremony. Allows a retired municipal judge and a retired judge or magistrate of a federal court of this state who is fully vested in the Federal Employees Retirement System to perform a marriage ceremony. Additionally, the bill extends the expiration date of marriage licenses, stipulating that the license expires if a marriage ceremony has not been conducted before the 90th day (instead of the 31st day) after the date the license is issued. Effective 9/1/2013.

CRIMINAL JUSTICE

HB 899 by Perry. Relating to certain rights of victims, guardians of victims, and close relatives of deceased victims in the criminal justice system. Entitles a victim, guardian of a victim or close relative of a deceased victim in a capital felony case to certain rights, including: the right to receive from the court a written explanation of defense-initiated victim outreach if the court has authorized expenditures for a defense-initiated victim-outreach specialist; the right to not be contacted by the victim outreach specialist unless written consent to the contact has been provided to the court; and, the right to








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designate a victim service provider to receive all communications from a victim outreach specialist on behalf of any person. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 1120 by Riddle. Relating to the duties of the Texas Crime Stoppers Council to encourage individuals to report criminal activity related to trafficking of persons. Requires the Texas Crime Stoppers Council to create a specialized program encouraging individuals to report criminal activity relating to the trafficking of persons. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 1272 by Thompson, Senfronia. Relating to the continuation and duties of the Human Trafficking Prevention Task Force. Continues the Human Trafficking Prevention Task Force until September 1, 2015. Requires a state or local law enforcement agency, district attorney, or county attorney that assists in the prevention of human trafficking to cooperate and assist the task force in collecting any statistical data on the nature and extent of human trafficking, among other provisions. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 1847 by Carter. Relating to continuing legal education in ethics or professional responsibility for prosecutors. Requires each prosecuting attorney representing the state in the prosecution of felony and misdemeanor criminal offenses other than Class C misdemeanors to complete a course of study relating to the duty to disclose exculpatory or mitigating evidence in a criminal case. The bill requires the court of criminal appeals to adopt certain specified rules relating to the training. In part, the rules must require each attorney to receive one hour of instruction relating to the required duty within 180 days of assuming duties as an attorney representing the state. Additionally, it requires the court to consult with a statewide association of prosecuting attorneys in the development of the required training. Effective 1/1/2014.

SB 213 by Whitmire. Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Board of Criminal Justice, the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, and the Windham School District and to the functions of the Board of Pardons and Paroles and the Correctional Managed Health Care Committee. Requires the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) to develop a standardized risk and needs assessment form, based on factors that tend to produce crime,

to be used for each offender in the adult criminal justice system; the department shall make the assessment instrument available to each community supervision department by January 1, 2015. The bill also requires TDCJ to establish a re-entry task force with membership to include representatives of the Sheriffs’ Association of Texas, County Judges and Commissioners Association of Texas, Texas District and County Attorneys Association, the Juvenile Justice Department, the Commission on Jail Standards and community supervision departments, among others. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 369 by Whitmire. Relating to certain information available to the public on a central database containing information about sex offenders. Exempts an employer’s name, address and phone number from information available to the public on the sex offender database. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 825 by Whitmire. Relating to disciplinary standards and procedures applicable to grievances alleging certain prosecutorial misconduct. Revises the State Bar’s grievance procedures to prohibit private reprimands for grievances against prosecutors who fail to disclose exculpatory evidence and delays the start of the statute of limitations applying to such grievances until the date on which a wrongfully imprisoned person is released from a penal institution. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 878 by Patrick. Relating to the disposition of proceeds and property from criminal asset forfeiture. Specifies a list of expenditures that qualify as a law enforcement purpose or an official purpose of an attorney’s office with respect to criminal asset forfeiture funds. Qualified law enforcement purposes include expenditures made for equipment, supplies, and crime prevention and treatment programs, among other expenditures. Expenditures that qualify as an official purpose of an attorney’s office include equipment, supplies, prosecution and training-related travel expenses, as well as investigative costs, among other expenditures. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1289 by Williams. Relating to certain business entities engaged in the publication of mug shots and other information regarding the involvement of an individual in the criminal justice system; providing a civil penalty. Amends current law to provide a person who is the subject of criminal record information

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designate a victim service provider to receive all communications from a victim outreach specialist on behalf of any person. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 1120 by Riddle. Relating to the duties of the Texas Crime Stoppers Council to encourage individuals to report criminal activity related to trafficking of persons. Requires the Texas Crime Stoppers Council to create a specialized program encouraging individuals to report criminal activity relating to the trafficking of persons. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 1272 by Thompson, Senfronia. Relating to the continuation and duties of the Human Trafficking Prevention Task Force. Continues the Human Trafficking Prevention Task Force until September 1, 2015. Requires a state or local law enforcement agency, district attorney, or county attorney that assists in the prevention of human trafficking to cooperate and assist the task force in collecting any statistical data on the nature and extent of human trafficking, among other provisions. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 1847 by Carter. Relating to continuing legal education in ethics or professional responsibility for prosecutors. Requires each prosecuting attorney representing the state in the prosecution of felony and misdemeanor criminal offenses other than Class C misdemeanors to complete a course of study relating to the duty to disclose exculpatory or mitigating evidence in a criminal case. The bill requires the court of criminal appeals to adopt certain specified rules relating to the training. In part, the rules must require each attorney to receive one hour of instruction relating to the required duty within 180 days of assuming duties as an attorney representing the state. Additionally, it requires the court to consult with a statewide association of prosecuting attorneys in the development of the required training. Effective 1/1/2014.

SB 213 by Whitmire. Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Board of Criminal Justice, the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, and the Windham School District and to the functions of the Board of Pardons and Paroles and the Correctional Managed Health Care Committee. Requires the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) to develop a standardized risk and needs assessment form, based on factors that tend to produce crime,

to be used for each offender in the adult criminal justice system; the department shall make the assessment instrument available to each community supervision department by January 1, 2015. The bill also requires TDCJ to establish a re-entry task force with membership to include representatives of the Sheriffs’ Association of Texas, County Judges and Commissioners Association of Texas, Texas District and County Attorneys Association, the Juvenile Justice Department, the Commission on Jail Standards and community supervision departments, among others. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 369 by Whitmire. Relating to certain information available to the public on a central database containing information about sex offenders. Exempts an employer’s name, address and phone number from information available to the public on the sex offender database. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 825 by Whitmire. Relating to disciplinary standards and procedures applicable to grievances alleging certain prosecutorial misconduct. Revises the State Bar’s grievance procedures to prohibit private reprimands for grievances against prosecutors who fail to disclose exculpatory evidence and delays the start of the statute of limitations applying to such grievances until the date on which a wrongfully imprisoned person is released from a penal institution. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 878 by Patrick. Relating to the disposition of proceeds and property from criminal asset forfeiture. Specifies a list of expenditures that qualify as a law enforcement purpose or an official purpose of an attorney’s office with respect to criminal asset forfeiture funds. Qualified law enforcement purposes include expenditures made for equipment, supplies, and crime prevention and treatment programs, among other expenditures. Expenditures that qualify as an official purpose of an attorney’s office include equipment, supplies, prosecution and training-related travel expenses, as well as investigative costs, among other expenditures. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1289 by Williams. Relating to certain business entities engaged in the publication of mug shots and other information regarding the involvement of an individual in the criminal justice system; providing a civil penalty. Amends current law to provide a person who is the subject of criminal record information









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published by certain business entities an avenue to dispute the accuracy and completeness of the publicly posted information. Prohibits businesses from publishing any criminal record information with respect to which they have knowledge or have received notice that an order of expunction or an order of nondisclosure has been issued. Assesses a penalty of up to $500 for each separate violation and up to $500 each subsequent day the violation continues. Effective 9/1/2013.

CRIMINAL PROCEDURE

HB 1125 by Lavender. Relating to the rights of an accused person in and the written waiver of extradition proceedings. Authorizes a justice of the peace serving a precinct that is located in a county bordering another state to inform a defendant subject to extradition of certain rights and accept a voluntary waiver of extradition. Requires a justice of the peace who is not an attorney to take a training course that focuses on extradition law before performing this duty or function. Additionally, it requires the applicable proceeding to be transcribed or videotaped, with the record of the proceeding retained in the records of the court for at least 270 days. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 2268 by Frullo. Relating to search warrants issued in this state and other states for certain customer data, communications and other related information held in electronic storage in this state and other states by providers of electronic communications services and remote computing services. Authorizes and provides procedures for the issuance of a search warrant for electronic customer data held in electronic storage, including the contents of and records and other information related to a wire or electronic communication held in electronic storage. Authorizes a district judge to issue computer data search warrants for companies in and outside of the state. The bill also allows searches for data authorized in a warrant to be conducted by employees of the company rather than by a peace officer and provides a timeline for compliance, depending on the nature of the search, among other provisions. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 2679 by Guillen. Relating to permitting an alternative plea for a defendant detained in jail

pending trial for a Class C misdemeanor. Authorizes a justice of the peace to permit a defendant in jail before trial to enter a plea; and, authorizes the justice of the peace to accept the defendant’s plea, assess and accept payment of a fine and costs, give the defendant credit for time served, determine whether the defendant is indigent, or discharge the defendant. Requires a justice of the peace to grant a motion for a new trial made by a defendant who enters a plea in jail when the motion is made not later than 10 days after the rendition of the judgment and sentence. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 367 by Whitmire. Relating to the disposition of abandoned or unclaimed property seized at the time of certain arrests. Outlines procedures for property seized at the time of arrest for a Class C misdemeanor (other than money). The bill sets forth a timeframe for the owner to reclaim the property, requires certain specified notice be provided to the owner, and provides for the disposition of property that is unclaimed after 31 days. Effective 5/18/2013.

SB 1292 by Ellis. Relating to DNA testing of biological evidence in certain capital cases. Requires the state, before a defendant is tried for a capital offense in which the death penalty is sought, to require either the Department of Public Safety through one of its laboratories or another accredited crime laboratory to perform DNA testing on any biological evidence that was collected as part of an investigation of the offense and is in the possession of the state. Requires the laboratory that performs the DNA testing to pay for all testing performed, among other provisions. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1451 by Hinojosa. Relating to the prosecution of the offense of money laundering and to the forfeiture of certain contraband. Authorizes the seizure and forfeiture of certain substitute property under the authority of a search warrant in certain circumstances, including when the property that is contraband can no longer be located or has been transferred or sold. Prescribes certain procedures for the seizure and forfeiture of the substitute property, among other provisions. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1611 by Ellis. Relating to discovery in a criminal case. Requires the state’s prosecuting attorney to provide a defendant with certain information as part of standard discovery, including offense reports and

16


published by certain business entities an avenue to dispute the accuracy and completeness of the publicly posted information. Prohibits businesses from publishing any criminal record information with respect to which they have knowledge or have received notice that an order of expunction or an order of nondisclosure has been issued. Assesses a penalty of up to $500 for each separate violation and up to $500 each subsequent day the violation continues. Effective 9/1/2013.

CRIMINAL PROCEDURE

HB 1125 by Lavender. Relating to the rights of an accused person in and the written waiver of extradition proceedings. Authorizes a justice of the peace serving a precinct that is located in a county bordering another state to inform a defendant subject to extradition of certain rights and accept a voluntary waiver of extradition. Requires a justice of the peace who is not an attorney to take a training course that focuses on extradition law before performing this duty or function. Additionally, it requires the applicable proceeding to be transcribed or videotaped, with the record of the proceeding retained in the records of the court for at least 270 days. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 2268 by Frullo. Relating to search warrants issued in this state and other states for certain customer data, communications and other related information held in electronic storage in this state and other states by providers of electronic communications services and remote computing services. Authorizes and provides procedures for the issuance of a search warrant for electronic customer data held in electronic storage, including the contents of and records and other information related to a wire or electronic communication held in electronic storage. Authorizes a district judge to issue computer data search warrants for companies in and outside of the state. The bill also allows searches for data authorized in a warrant to be conducted by employees of the company rather than by a peace officer and provides a timeline for compliance, depending on the nature of the search, among other provisions. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 2679 by Guillen. Relating to permitting an alternative plea for a defendant detained in jail

pending trial for a Class C misdemeanor. Authorizes a justice of the peace to permit a defendant in jail before trial to enter a plea; and, authorizes the justice of the peace to accept the defendant’s plea, assess and accept payment of a fine and costs, give the defendant credit for time served, determine whether the defendant is indigent, or discharge the defendant. Requires a justice of the peace to grant a motion for a new trial made by a defendant who enters a plea in jail when the motion is made not later than 10 days after the rendition of the judgment and sentence. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 367 by Whitmire. Relating to the disposition of abandoned or unclaimed property seized at the time of certain arrests. Outlines procedures for property seized at the time of arrest for a Class C misdemeanor (other than money). The bill sets forth a timeframe for the owner to reclaim the property, requires certain specified notice be provided to the owner, and provides for the disposition of property that is unclaimed after 31 days. Effective 5/18/2013.

SB 1292 by Ellis. Relating to DNA testing of biological evidence in certain capital cases. Requires the state, before a defendant is tried for a capital offense in which the death penalty is sought, to require either the Department of Public Safety through one of its laboratories or another accredited crime laboratory to perform DNA testing on any biological evidence that was collected as part of an investigation of the offense and is in the possession of the state. Requires the laboratory that performs the DNA testing to pay for all testing performed, among other provisions. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1451 by Hinojosa. Relating to the prosecution of the offense of money laundering and to the forfeiture of certain contraband. Authorizes the seizure and forfeiture of certain substitute property under the authority of a search warrant in certain circumstances, including when the property that is contraband can no longer be located or has been transferred or sold. Prescribes certain procedures for the seizure and forfeiture of the substitute property, among other provisions. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1611 by Ellis. Relating to discovery in a criminal case. Requires the state’s prosecuting attorney to provide a defendant with certain information as part of standard discovery, including offense reports and








17


witness statements. Prohibits the defendant, defense counsel, and other individuals from disclosing any documents received from the state to a third party except in certain circumstances. Specifically authorizes a defense attorney to allow a defendant or witness to view the information provided by the state; however, the defense attorney or other person possessing the information must redact certain identifying information of witnesses before allowing the documents to be viewed. Additionally, the bill codifies existing duties to disclose exculpatory evidence and information; requires the state to electronically record or otherwise document any information provided to the defendant; and authorizes a court to order the defendant to pays costs related to discovery, provided that the costs do not exceed the charges authorized by the Public Information Act. Effective 1/1/2014.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

HB 2636 by Frullo. Relating to the transfer of money from the tax increment fund established for a tax increment financing reinvestment zone to the fund established for an adjacent zone. Allows the transfer of funds from a tax increment fund (TIF) for a reinvestment zone to another adjacent TIF, but only if all participating taxing units agree to the transfer and if the holders of any tax increment bonds or notes issued for the zone also agree. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 169 by Hegar. Relating to ballot language for an election to approve and finance a municipal or county venue project. Requires ballot language for a county venue project to clarify that the election is either imposing a new tax or is redirecting revenue from an existing tax. Effective 9/1/2013.

ELECTIONS

HB 259 by Simmons. Relating to electioneering conducted near a polling place. Permits electioneering on public property outside the 100 foot distance if a polling place is located in a public building. The entity that controls the public building may impose reasonable time and place regulations. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 396 by Thompson, Senfronia. Relating to providing a federal postcard applicant with a ballot for certain

elections in which the applicant is eligible to vote. Requires an early voting clerk who receives a Federal Postcard Application (FPCA) to forward the application to any other political subdivision holding an election on the same date in which the applicant is eligible to vote. Under current law, the voter is responsible for submitting a separate FPCA to each entity holding an election. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 666 by Miller, Rick. Relating to the elections to which certain applications for a ballot to be voted by mail are applicable. Applies only to disabled voters and voters over 65 years of age. It allows an applicant for a ballot by mail to submit one application to the county clerk or elections administrator to serve as an application for all elections during the calendar year for which the county clerk or elections administrator serves as early voting clerk. Under current law, the voter must submit a separate application for each election. Effective 1/1/2014.

HB 985 by Elkins. Relating to the deadlines by which provisional ballots must be processed and the state canvass must be conducted for certain elections. Amends the Election Code to expand the amount of time counties and other political subdivisions have to process provisional ballots in elections held on the November general election for state and county officers. The voter registrar has seven calendar days to review each provisional voter’s eligibility, while the ballot board is required to verify and count provisional ballots not later than the 13th day after the date of the election. Concurrent with these changes, the canvass deadline is shifted to the 14th day after the election day. Reflects the higher amount of provisional voting that occurs at the general election for state and county officers; and may also reflect an anticipation of even more provisional voting that may take place at the general election for state and county officers if voter ID provisions are implemented. The canvass deadline remains the 11th day after election day for all other elections. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 1129 by White. Relating to a program allowing certain military voters on active duty overseas to cast a ballot electronically. Requires the secretary of state to implement until September 1, 2015, a pilot program to allow military voters on active duty overseas who are eligible for hostile fire pay to return their ballots by e-mail. The secretary of state is required to select

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witness statements. Prohibits the defendant, defense counsel, and other individuals from disclosing any documents received from the state to a third party except in certain circumstances. Specifically authorizes a defense attorney to allow a defendant or witness to view the information provided by the state; however, the defense attorney or other person possessing the information must redact certain identifying information of witnesses before allowing the documents to be viewed. Additionally, the bill codifies existing duties to disclose exculpatory evidence and information; requires the state to electronically record or otherwise document any information provided to the defendant; and authorizes a court to order the defendant to pays costs related to discovery, provided that the costs do not exceed the charges authorized by the Public Information Act. Effective 1/1/2014.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

HB 2636 by Frullo. Relating to the transfer of money from the tax increment fund established for a tax increment financing reinvestment zone to the fund established for an adjacent zone. Allows the transfer of funds from a tax increment fund (TIF) for a reinvestment zone to another adjacent TIF, but only if all participating taxing units agree to the transfer and if the holders of any tax increment bonds or notes issued for the zone also agree. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 169 by Hegar. Relating to ballot language for an election to approve and finance a municipal or county venue project. Requires ballot language for a county venue project to clarify that the election is either imposing a new tax or is redirecting revenue from an existing tax. Effective 9/1/2013.

ELECTIONS

HB 259 by Simmons. Relating to electioneering conducted near a polling place. Permits electioneering on public property outside the 100 foot distance if a polling place is located in a public building. The entity that controls the public building may impose reasonable time and place regulations. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 396 by Thompson, Senfronia. Relating to providing a federal postcard applicant with a ballot for certain

elections in which the applicant is eligible to vote. Requires an early voting clerk who receives a Federal Postcard Application (FPCA) to forward the application to any other political subdivision holding an election on the same date in which the applicant is eligible to vote. Under current law, the voter is responsible for submitting a separate FPCA to each entity holding an election. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 666 by Miller, Rick. Relating to the elections to which certain applications for a ballot to be voted by mail are applicable. Applies only to disabled voters and voters over 65 years of age. It allows an applicant for a ballot by mail to submit one application to the county clerk or elections administrator to serve as an application for all elections during the calendar year for which the county clerk or elections administrator serves as early voting clerk. Under current law, the voter must submit a separate application for each election. Effective 1/1/2014.

HB 985 by Elkins. Relating to the deadlines by which provisional ballots must be processed and the state canvass must be conducted for certain elections. Amends the Election Code to expand the amount of time counties and other political subdivisions have to process provisional ballots in elections held on the November general election for state and county officers. The voter registrar has seven calendar days to review each provisional voter’s eligibility, while the ballot board is required to verify and count provisional ballots not later than the 13th day after the date of the election. Concurrent with these changes, the canvass deadline is shifted to the 14th day after the election day. Reflects the higher amount of provisional voting that occurs at the general election for state and county officers; and may also reflect an anticipation of even more provisional voting that may take place at the general election for state and county officers if voter ID provisions are implemented. The canvass deadline remains the 11th day after election day for all other elections. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 1129 by White. Relating to a program allowing certain military voters on active duty overseas to cast a ballot electronically. Requires the secretary of state to implement until September 1, 2015, a pilot program to allow military voters on active duty overseas who are eligible for hostile fire pay to return their ballots by e-mail. The secretary of state is required to select








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one county to participate in the program; the county must desire to participate in the program and must have the appropriate technological capabilities. The secretary of state must operate the program as a pilot program until September 1, 2015. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 1164 by Thompson, Ed. Relating to the territory that may be included in a single county election precinct. Allows county election precincts to be drawn without regard to city ward lines. The bill specifically removes a provision prohibiting a county election precinct from containing territory from more than one ward in a city with a population of 10,000 or more. Effective 5/24/2013.

HB 2006 by Klick. Relating to eligibility for appointment as a central counting station manager. Allows the central counting station manager to be an employee of the political subdivision that adopts or owns the voting system. Allows county employees to serve as counting station managers for multiple political subdivisions in contract or joint elections. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 2373 by Klick. Relating to the use of an electronic device to capture a voter’s signature for the signature roster. Authorizes the use of electronic devices to capture voter signatures on the signature roster. Previously, a physical signature roster was required because there were no statutory provisions for accepting an electronic signature. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 2512 by Miller, Rick. Relating to the disclosure of certain information to the secretary of state for use in voter registration or the administration of elections. Authorizes the secretary of state to use social security number information provided on a driver’s license application for voter registration and election administration purposes. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 578 by Duncan. Relating to use of countywide polling places for certain elections. Allows counties eligible to conduct elections with countywide election precincts to use them in each primary election and primary runoff election if both party chairs or party executive committees agree. The agreement can either be part of a joint primary election or the parties can conduct separate primaries but agree to share the same countywide polling places. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 637 by Paxton. Relating to notice and election order requirements for bond approval elections held

by political subdivisions. Sets requirements for the specific content that must be included in an election order calling for the issuance of debt obligations. Additionally, the bill requires that an election order be posted: at each polling place on election day and during early voting; in three public places not later than the 21st day before the election; and on the county’s website if the county maintains one. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 904 by Van de Putte. Relating to the adoption of certain voting procedures and the modification of certain election deadlines, including those necessary to implement the federal Military and Overseas Voter Empowerment Act. Clarifies legislation designed to shift election dates and deadlines as necessary to allow counties to comply with the mail ballot requirements of the federal MOVE Act. Ties primary dates to the filing deadline, so that in any future changes, either judicial or legislative, only the primary filing deadline will need to be amended. Authorizes use of a signature sheet for the returned ballot. Allows a MOVE voter to print out a signature sheet of paper that contains the same information as the carrier envelope and return it along with the ballot in a regular envelope. Effective 9/1/2013, except Section 8 takes effect 12/31/2016.

SB 910 by Duncan. Relating to certain election practices and procedures. Makes explicit the secretary of state’s authority to prescribe the form and content of ballots for electronic voting systems to conform to the system’s formatting requirements. Amends the Election Code to verify that entities conducting a recount may assess the actual cost of printing ballot images from direct recording electronic voting systems. Effective 9/1/2013.

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

HB 487 by Bell. Relating to liability of certain persons assisting in man-made or natural disasters. Authorizes a commissioners court, county judge, county fire marshal, certain volunteer fire departments, or an emergency management director or coordinator designated for the county to request or accept certain care, assistance, or advice, including the loan or operation of construction or heavy equipment if needed to address a man-made or natural disaster. A person who provides such care, assistance, or advice

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one county to participate in the program; the county must desire to participate in the program and must have the appropriate technological capabilities. The secretary of state must operate the program as a pilot program until September 1, 2015. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 1164 by Thompson, Ed. Relating to the territory that may be included in a single county election precinct. Allows county election precincts to be drawn without regard to city ward lines. The bill specifically removes a provision prohibiting a county election precinct from containing territory from more than one ward in a city with a population of 10,000 or more. Effective 5/24/2013.

HB 2006 by Klick. Relating to eligibility for appointment as a central counting station manager. Allows the central counting station manager to be an employee of the political subdivision that adopts or owns the voting system. Allows county employees to serve as counting station managers for multiple political subdivisions in contract or joint elections. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 2373 by Klick. Relating to the use of an electronic device to capture a voter’s signature for the signature roster. Authorizes the use of electronic devices to capture voter signatures on the signature roster. Previously, a physical signature roster was required because there were no statutory provisions for accepting an electronic signature. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 2512 by Miller, Rick. Relating to the disclosure of certain information to the secretary of state for use in voter registration or the administration of elections. Authorizes the secretary of state to use social security number information provided on a driver’s license application for voter registration and election administration purposes. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 578 by Duncan. Relating to use of countywide polling places for certain elections. Allows counties eligible to conduct elections with countywide election precincts to use them in each primary election and primary runoff election if both party chairs or party executive committees agree. The agreement can either be part of a joint primary election or the parties can conduct separate primaries but agree to share the same countywide polling places. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 637 by Paxton. Relating to notice and election order requirements for bond approval elections held

by political subdivisions. Sets requirements for the specific content that must be included in an election order calling for the issuance of debt obligations. Additionally, the bill requires that an election order be posted: at each polling place on election day and during early voting; in three public places not later than the 21st day before the election; and on the county’s website if the county maintains one. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 904 by Van de Putte. Relating to the adoption of certain voting procedures and the modification of certain election deadlines, including those necessary to implement the federal Military and Overseas Voter Empowerment Act. Clarifies legislation designed to shift election dates and deadlines as necessary to allow counties to comply with the mail ballot requirements of the federal MOVE Act. Ties primary dates to the filing deadline, so that in any future changes, either judicial or legislative, only the primary filing deadline will need to be amended. Authorizes use of a signature sheet for the returned ballot. Allows a MOVE voter to print out a signature sheet of paper that contains the same information as the carrier envelope and return it along with the ballot in a regular envelope. Effective 9/1/2013, except Section 8 takes effect 12/31/2016.

SB 910 by Duncan. Relating to certain election practices and procedures. Makes explicit the secretary of state’s authority to prescribe the form and content of ballots for electronic voting systems to conform to the system’s formatting requirements. Amends the Election Code to verify that entities conducting a recount may assess the actual cost of printing ballot images from direct recording electronic voting systems. Effective 9/1/2013.

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

HB 487 by Bell. Relating to liability of certain persons assisting in man-made or natural disasters. Authorizes a commissioners court, county judge, county fire marshal, certain volunteer fire departments, or an emergency management director or coordinator designated for the county to request or accept certain care, assistance, or advice, including the loan or operation of construction or heavy equipment if needed to address a man-made or natural disaster. A person who provides such care, assistance, or advice










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to a county is immune from civil liability, except in a case of reckless conduct or intentional misconduct that occurs while providing voluntary assistance to a county. Effective 5/24/2013.

HB 567 by Smith. Relating to the definition of an authorized emergency vehicle. Amends the definition of an “authorized emergency vehicle” under the Transportation Code to include an emergency medical services vehicle authorized under an emergency medical services provider license issued by the Department of State Health Services and operating under a contract with an emergency services district that requires the service provider to respond to emergency calls with the vehicle. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 746 by Ashby. Relating to the registration of volunteer health practitioners and the services of volunteer health practitioners during disasters. Authorizes the Department of State Health Services to administer a volunteer health practitioner registration system and allows certain out-of-state volunteer health practitioners who are registered with the system to practice in this state during certain emergency situations. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 762 by Guillen. Relating to restrictions on disaster remediation contracts following a locally declared disaster. Expands the definition of a “natural disaster” which triggers restrictions on disaster remediation contracts following a disaster to include a disaster that results in a local disaster declaration by a county judge. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 802 by Rose. Relating to the definition of an authorized emergency vehicle. Includes a county-owned, or county-leased, emergency management vehicle that has been designated or authorized by the commissioners court in the definition of “authorized emergency vehicle” under the Transportation Code. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 3178 by Phillips. Relating to the Texas Statewide Mutual Aid System. Removes the deadline for confirming in writing a verbal request for mutual aid assistance. The bill also requires a local government entity requesting mutual aid assistance from another local government entity under the Texas Statewide Mutual Aid System to reimburse the entity for the actual costs of providing the assistance if the required response exceeds 12 consecutive hours, and repeals

provisions establishing certain procedures for mutual aid. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 171 by West. Relating to the establishment of a workgroup to study the use by state agencies of a uniform application form following disasters. Requires the Texas Division of Emergency Management to create a workgroup of appropriate emergency management council members, local government officials and nonprofit organizations to determine if a uniform application form for assistance following a disaster can be developed. Requires the workgroup to report the findings to the legislature before September 1, 2014. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 1393 by Estes. Relating to homeland security strategy. Updates the objectives and requirements relating to the governor’s statewide homeland security strategy. Expands those objectives and streamlines the state’s application process for U.S. Department of Homeland Security grants by aligning the state’s strategic planning efforts with current federal guidance. Effective 6/14/2013.

ENVIRONMENTAL

HB 2290 by Lozano. Relating to the use for administrative costs of a portion of money received by certain entities to implement a supplemental environmental project. Allows the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), in agreeing to a supplemental environmental project (SEP), to allow a local government or a 501(c)(3) nonprofit implementing such a project to use up to 10 percent of the direct costs of the project for administrative costs, including overhead costs, personnel and fringe benefits, and travel and per diem expenses. Applies to money received to implement an SEP regardless of whether the money was received on, before, or after the effective date of this act. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 3459 by Eiland. Relating to access and protection of certain coastal areas. Allows the commissioner of the Texas General Land Office (GLO), at his discretion and by order, to temporarily suspend determinations of the line of vegetation along a public beach for a period of up to three years when a defined meteorological event obliterates the line. For the duration of the order, the public beach

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to a county is immune from civil liability, except in a case of reckless conduct or intentional misconduct that occurs while providing voluntary assistance to a county. Effective 5/24/2013.

HB 567 by Smith. Relating to the definition of an authorized emergency vehicle. Amends the definition of an “authorized emergency vehicle” under the Transportation Code to include an emergency medical services vehicle authorized under an emergency medical services provider license issued by the Department of State Health Services and operating under a contract with an emergency services district that requires the service provider to respond to emergency calls with the vehicle. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 746 by Ashby. Relating to the registration of volunteer health practitioners and the services of volunteer health practitioners during disasters. Authorizes the Department of State Health Services to administer a volunteer health practitioner registration system and allows certain out-of-state volunteer health practitioners who are registered with the system to practice in this state during certain emergency situations. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 762 by Guillen. Relating to restrictions on disaster remediation contracts following a locally declared disaster. Expands the definition of a “natural disaster” which triggers restrictions on disaster remediation contracts following a disaster to include a disaster that results in a local disaster declaration by a county judge. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 802 by Rose. Relating to the definition of an authorized emergency vehicle. Includes a county-owned, or county-leased, emergency management vehicle that has been designated or authorized by the commissioners court in the definition of “authorized emergency vehicle” under the Transportation Code. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 3178 by Phillips. Relating to the Texas Statewide Mutual Aid System. Removes the deadline for confirming in writing a verbal request for mutual aid assistance. The bill also requires a local government entity requesting mutual aid assistance from another local government entity under the Texas Statewide Mutual Aid System to reimburse the entity for the actual costs of providing the assistance if the required response exceeds 12 consecutive hours, and repeals

provisions establishing certain procedures for mutual aid. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 171 by West. Relating to the establishment of a workgroup to study the use by state agencies of a uniform application form following disasters. Requires the Texas Division of Emergency Management to create a workgroup of appropriate emergency management council members, local government officials and nonprofit organizations to determine if a uniform application form for assistance following a disaster can be developed. Requires the workgroup to report the findings to the legislature before September 1, 2014. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 1393 by Estes. Relating to homeland security strategy. Updates the objectives and requirements relating to the governor’s statewide homeland security strategy. Expands those objectives and streamlines the state’s application process for U.S. Department of Homeland Security grants by aligning the state’s strategic planning efforts with current federal guidance. Effective 6/14/2013.

ENVIRONMENTAL

HB 2290 by Lozano. Relating to the use for administrative costs of a portion of money received by certain entities to implement a supplemental environmental project. Allows the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), in agreeing to a supplemental environmental project (SEP), to allow a local government or a 501(c)(3) nonprofit implementing such a project to use up to 10 percent of the direct costs of the project for administrative costs, including overhead costs, personnel and fringe benefits, and travel and per diem expenses. Applies to money received to implement an SEP regardless of whether the money was received on, before, or after the effective date of this act. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 3459 by Eiland. Relating to access and protection of certain coastal areas. Allows the commissioner of the Texas General Land Office (GLO), at his discretion and by order, to temporarily suspend determinations of the line of vegetation along a public beach for a period of up to three years when a defined meteorological event obliterates the line. For the duration of the order, the public beach

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shall extend to a line 200 feet inland from the line of mean low tide as established by a licensed state land surveyor. Once the order expires, the land commissioner shall make a determination regarding the line of vegetation, taking into consideration the effect of the meteorological event on the location of the public beach easement. This vegetation line shall constitute the landward boundary of the public easement until the line moves landward due to another meteorological event, erosion or public use, or until a final court adjudication establishes the line in another place. Effective 9/1/2013.

ETHICS

HB 62 by Guillen. Relating to a justice or judge having an interest in a business entity that owns, manages, or operates a private correctional or rehabilitation facility. Prohibits certain justices and judges, including a constitutional county court judge, from having a significant interest in a business entity that owns, manages, or operates certain community residential facilities or correctional or rehabilitation facilities. Defines a significant interest in such a business entity to include the ownership of any voting stock or share or a direct investment in the business entity that represents the lesser of at least 10 percent or $15,000 of the fair market value of the business entity or the receipt of any money from the business entity. The bill makes a violation of the prohibition a violation of the Code of Judicial Conduct, and requires a justice or judge with a prohibited interest in a business entity to report the interest to the Commission on Judicial Conduct. Effective 1/1/2015.

HB 195 by Farias. Relating to the availability on the Internet of reports of political expenditures and contributions filed in connection with certain county and municipal offices. Requires the clerk of a county with a population of 800,000 or more to post reports filed by candidates, officeholders, and specific purpose committees filed in connection with a county office or the office of county commissioner to the county’s website not later than the fifth business day after the date the report was received. Effective 9/1/2013, except Section 3(b) takes effect 1/1/2014.

HB 1035 by Huberty. Relating to the filing of reports of political contributions and expenditures and of

personal financial statements by certain officeholders and candidates. Allows reports of political contributions and expenditures by candidates and officeholders to be filed by mail, personal delivery or electronically if the filing authority (county clerk or elections administrator) has adopted rules and procedures for electronic filing. If electronic filing is authorized, the filing authority must issue an electronic receipt to the filer. Additionally, the bill stipulates that a personal financial statement that is filed electronically in accordance with rules and procedures adopted by the county clerk or other policy authority is timely if filed no later than midnight on the filing deadline. These changes apply to statements and reports filed on or after January 1, 2014. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 2112 by Raymond. Relating to financial disclosure reports made by a member of a county planning commission. Allows a commissioners court to determine if each member of a county planning commission is required to file a financial disclosure report in the same manner as required for county officers. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 148 by Williams. Relating to certain legal advice or legal services rendered to certain public servants. Expands the gifts that are exempt from the offenses of soliciting or accepting a benefit from a person subject to a public servant’s jurisdiction and offering a gift to a public servant to include certain complimentary legal services relating to a will, power of attorney, advance directive, or other estate planning document rendered to a public servant who is a first responder. The legal services must be rendered through certain programs or clinics that are approved by the head of the agency employing the public servant. Defines a first responder to include a peace officer whose duties include responding rapidly to an emergency, certain fire protection personnel, and certain volunteer firefighters, among others. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 692 by Carona. Relating to the filing by electronic mail of financial disclosures by certain county officers, county employees, or candidates for county office. Permits a personal financial statement required by Chapter 159 of the Local Government Code to be filed electronically in a manner and format prescribed by the county clerk or other filing

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shall extend to a line 200 feet inland from the line of mean low tide as established by a licensed state land surveyor. Once the order expires, the land commissioner shall make a determination regarding the line of vegetation, taking into consideration the effect of the meteorological event on the location of the public beach easement. This vegetation line shall constitute the landward boundary of the public easement until the line moves landward due to another meteorological event, erosion or public use, or until a final court adjudication establishes the line in another place. Effective 9/1/2013.

ETHICS

HB 62 by Guillen. Relating to a justice or judge having an interest in a business entity that owns, manages, or operates a private correctional or rehabilitation facility. Prohibits certain justices and judges, including a constitutional county court judge, from having a significant interest in a business entity that owns, manages, or operates certain community residential facilities or correctional or rehabilitation facilities. Defines a significant interest in such a business entity to include the ownership of any voting stock or share or a direct investment in the business entity that represents the lesser of at least 10 percent or $15,000 of the fair market value of the business entity or the receipt of any money from the business entity. The bill makes a violation of the prohibition a violation of the Code of Judicial Conduct, and requires a justice or judge with a prohibited interest in a business entity to report the interest to the Commission on Judicial Conduct. Effective 1/1/2015.

HB 195 by Farias. Relating to the availability on the Internet of reports of political expenditures and contributions filed in connection with certain county and municipal offices. Requires the clerk of a county with a population of 800,000 or more to post reports filed by candidates, officeholders, and specific purpose committees filed in connection with a county office or the office of county commissioner to the county’s website not later than the fifth business day after the date the report was received. Effective 9/1/2013, except Section 3(b) takes effect 1/1/2014.

HB 1035 by Huberty. Relating to the filing of reports of political contributions and expenditures and of

personal financial statements by certain officeholders and candidates. Allows reports of political contributions and expenditures by candidates and officeholders to be filed by mail, personal delivery or electronically if the filing authority (county clerk or elections administrator) has adopted rules and procedures for electronic filing. If electronic filing is authorized, the filing authority must issue an electronic receipt to the filer. Additionally, the bill stipulates that a personal financial statement that is filed electronically in accordance with rules and procedures adopted by the county clerk or other policy authority is timely if filed no later than midnight on the filing deadline. These changes apply to statements and reports filed on or after January 1, 2014. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 2112 by Raymond. Relating to financial disclosure reports made by a member of a county planning commission. Allows a commissioners court to determine if each member of a county planning commission is required to file a financial disclosure report in the same manner as required for county officers. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 148 by Williams. Relating to certain legal advice or legal services rendered to certain public servants. Expands the gifts that are exempt from the offenses of soliciting or accepting a benefit from a person subject to a public servant’s jurisdiction and offering a gift to a public servant to include certain complimentary legal services relating to a will, power of attorney, advance directive, or other estate planning document rendered to a public servant who is a first responder. The legal services must be rendered through certain programs or clinics that are approved by the head of the agency employing the public servant. Defines a first responder to include a peace officer whose duties include responding rapidly to an emergency, certain fire protection personnel, and certain volunteer firefighters, among others. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 692 by Carona. Relating to the filing by electronic mail of financial disclosures by certain county officers, county employees, or candidates for county office. Permits a personal financial statement required by Chapter 159 of the Local Government Code to be filed electronically in a manner and format prescribed by the county clerk or other filing

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authority. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1773 by Huffman. Relating to the creation of a select interim committee to review and make recommendations for substantive changes to ethics laws. Creates a legislative interim committee to study and review the statutes and regulations related to ethics, including campaign finance laws, lobby laws, and personal financial disclosure laws. Requires the study to consider what changes, if any, should be made to more effectively accomplish the purposes of the laws. The committee’s findings and recommendations must be reported by December 20, 2014. Effective 9/1/2013.

FEES

HB 1513 by Lewis. Relating to temporary increases in the records archive fees and the records management and preservation fees charged by district and county clerks. Increases the records archive fee and the records management and preservation fee from $5 to not more than $10. Requires commissioners court approval and budget approval for district court records archive fee. Contains a provision reverting the records archive fee back to $5 effective September 1, 2019. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 2302 by Hunter. Relating to signing electronic or digital court documents, to the electronic filing system established by the Texas Supreme Court, to the statewide electronic filing system fund, to certain court fees and court costs, and to recovery of electronic filing fees by taxing units; imposing and authorizing certain fees. Establishes a statewide electronic filing system in order to comply with an order issued by the Supreme Court of Texas mandating electronic filing in certain courts, and requires a clerk to collect a $20 fee on the filing of civil cases in the supreme court, appellate courts, district courts, statutory county courts, constitutional county courts, and statutory probate courts. It requires the clerk of a justice court to collect a $10 filing fee on any civil action or proceeding requiring a filing fee. In addition, it requires a person to pay a $5 court cost on conviction of any criminal offense in a district court, county court, or statutory county court. All fees collected are to be remitted to the comptroller to be deposited into the

statewide electronic filing system fund created by this legislation. These new e-filing court cost fees are effective on September 1, 2013.

Money in the statewide electronic filing system fund may only be appropriated to the Office of Court Administration to be used to support a statewide electronic filing technology project for courts in this state, provide grants to counties to implement electronic filing, or support court technology projects that have a statewide impact. The bill also gives local governments or appellate courts the authority to collect a $2 fee, beginning on January 1, 2014, for each electronic filing transaction if the fee is necessary to recover actual electronic filing system operating costs; this $2 fee expires on September 1, 2019. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 389 by West. Relating to the imposition of court costs in certain criminal proceedings. Makes the amount of court costs imposed on a criminal defendant the amount established under the law in effect on the date of conviction. Applies only to convictions in district and county-level courts. The change does not apply to convictions in justice and municipal courts. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 390 by West. Relating to the effective date of a new court cost or fee or of an amendment to the amount of a court cost or fee. Makes all new and amended fees and court costs effective January 1 of the year following the effective date of the bill creating or amending the fee. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 391 by West. Relating to a defendant’s obligation to pay a fine or court cost after the expiration of a period of community supervision. Clarifies that the obligation to pay court costs, fees, and fines remains even after a probation period has expired. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 395 by West. Relating to fines and court costs imposed on a child in a criminal case. Provides that a child convicted of a Class C Misdemeanor can elect to discharge the fines and fees through community service or receiving tutoring. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 967 by West. Relating to the authority of a municipality or county to retain certain fees. Provides counties required to implement a collection improvement program with a grace period of 180 days as is currently granted to cities before penalties

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authority. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1773 by Huffman. Relating to the creation of a select interim committee to review and make recommendations for substantive changes to ethics laws. Creates a legislative interim committee to study and review the statutes and regulations related to ethics, including campaign finance laws, lobby laws, and personal financial disclosure laws. Requires the study to consider what changes, if any, should be made to more effectively accomplish the purposes of the laws. The committee’s findings and recommendations must be reported by December 20, 2014. Effective 9/1/2013.

FEES

HB 1513 by Lewis. Relating to temporary increases in the records archive fees and the records management and preservation fees charged by district and county clerks. Increases the records archive fee and the records management and preservation fee from $5 to not more than $10. Requires commissioners court approval and budget approval for district court records archive fee. Contains a provision reverting the records archive fee back to $5 effective September 1, 2019. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 2302 by Hunter. Relating to signing electronic or digital court documents, to the electronic filing system established by the Texas Supreme Court, to the statewide electronic filing system fund, to certain court fees and court costs, and to recovery of electronic filing fees by taxing units; imposing and authorizing certain fees. Establishes a statewide electronic filing system in order to comply with an order issued by the Supreme Court of Texas mandating electronic filing in certain courts, and requires a clerk to collect a $20 fee on the filing of civil cases in the supreme court, appellate courts, district courts, statutory county courts, constitutional county courts, and statutory probate courts. It requires the clerk of a justice court to collect a $10 filing fee on any civil action or proceeding requiring a filing fee. In addition, it requires a person to pay a $5 court cost on conviction of any criminal offense in a district court, county court, or statutory county court. All fees collected are to be remitted to the comptroller to be deposited into the

statewide electronic filing system fund created by this legislation. These new e-filing court cost fees are effective on September 1, 2013.

Money in the statewide electronic filing system fund may only be appropriated to the Office of Court Administration to be used to support a statewide electronic filing technology project for courts in this state, provide grants to counties to implement electronic filing, or support court technology projects that have a statewide impact. The bill also gives local governments or appellate courts the authority to collect a $2 fee, beginning on January 1, 2014, for each electronic filing transaction if the fee is necessary to recover actual electronic filing system operating costs; this $2 fee expires on September 1, 2019. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 389 by West. Relating to the imposition of court costs in certain criminal proceedings. Makes the amount of court costs imposed on a criminal defendant the amount established under the law in effect on the date of conviction. Applies only to convictions in district and county-level courts. The change does not apply to convictions in justice and municipal courts. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 390 by West. Relating to the effective date of a new court cost or fee or of an amendment to the amount of a court cost or fee. Makes all new and amended fees and court costs effective January 1 of the year following the effective date of the bill creating or amending the fee. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 391 by West. Relating to a defendant’s obligation to pay a fine or court cost after the expiration of a period of community supervision. Clarifies that the obligation to pay court costs, fees, and fines remains even after a probation period has expired. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 395 by West. Relating to fines and court costs imposed on a child in a criminal case. Provides that a child convicted of a Class C Misdemeanor can elect to discharge the fines and fees through community service or receiving tutoring. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 967 by West. Relating to the authority of a municipality or county to retain certain fees. Provides counties required to implement a collection improvement program with a grace period of 180 days as is currently granted to cities before penalties









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are applied for non-compliance with collection improvement program guidelines. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 1908 by West. Relating to a study conducted by the Office of Court Administration of the Texas Judicial System and the repeal of certain court fees and costs. Directs the Office of Court Administration (OCA) to conduct a study on court costs and fees that identifies each statutory provision that imposes a court fee or cost in a court in this state, determine whether each identified fee or cost is necessary to accomplish the stated statutory purpose, and compile a list of each identified fee or cost that the office determines is necessary. In conducting the study, OCA is required to consult with local government representatives. The bill also requires the Texas Legislative Council to prepare, for consideration by the 84th Legislature, a revision of statutes as necessary to reflect the costs and fees identified in the study as not necessary. Effective 9/1/2013.

FIRE SAFETY

HB 712 by Murphy. Relating to the responsibility for keeping fire-fighting equipment furnished to a volunteer fire department by a county in good working order. Requires the petitioner for a volunteer fire department to maintain and repair fire-fighting equipment, removing the mandate from the county that donated the equipment. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 702 by Hegar. Relating to certified and insured prescribed burn managers. Requires the Prescribed Burning Board to establish insurance requirements for certified and insured prescribed burn managers in amounts of at least $1 million for each single occurrence of bodily injury or death, or injury to or destruction of property, and with a policy period minimum aggregate limit of at least $2 million. Clarifies that the Local Government Code provisions authorizing the county regulation of outdoor burning do not apply to outdoor burning activities that are conducted by a certified and insured prescribed burn manager. Effective 9/1/2013.

HEALTHCARE

HB 2454 by Frank. Relating to reimbursement of health care services rendered by a health care provider

for an inmate of a county jail or another county correctional facility. Allows a county to credit a health care expenditure for an eligible resident toward eligibility for state assistance if the resident is an inmate of a county jail. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 872 by Deuell. Relating to county expenditures for certain health care services. Allows a county to credit an intergovernmental transfer up to 4 percent of the 8 percent spending threshold required by the Indigent Healthcare and Treatment Act if the transfer was made to provide health care services as part of the Texas Healthcare Transformation and Quality Improvement Program waiver. The commissioners court must determine that the expenditure fulfills the county’s obligations to provide indigent health care and the care’s availability is sufficient enough to meet the requirements of the Indigent Health Care Act. The county must also receive periodic reports from health care providers participating in the waiver that document the number of services provided to persons who are eligible to receive care under the Act. Effective 6/14/2013.

INDIGENT DEFENSE

HB 577 by Guillen. Relating to the representation of certain applicants for writs of habeas corpus in cases involving the death penalty. Clarifies that a public defender’s office may be appointed with respect to an application for a writ of habeas corpus filed in a death penalty case in certain circumstances. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 1318 by Turner, Sylvester. Relating to the appointment of counsel to represent certain youths and indigent defendants. Requires a court appointed attorney to submit information that describes the percentage of the attorney’s practice time that was dedicated to court appointments for indigent defendants to the county each year on a form prescribed by the Texas Indigent Defense Commission (Commission). Requires a county to prepare and provide to the Commission information that describes for the preceding fiscal year the number of court appointments for indigent defendants made to each attorney accepting appointments in the county; and, requires a county to provide to the Commission any plans or proposals submitted to the commissioners court with respect to public defender offices and managed assigned counsel programs, certain contracts relating to a

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are applied for non-compliance with collection improvement program guidelines. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 1908 by West. Relating to a study conducted by the Office of Court Administration of the Texas Judicial System and the repeal of certain court fees and costs. Directs the Office of Court Administration (OCA) to conduct a study on court costs and fees that identifies each statutory provision that imposes a court fee or cost in a court in this state, determine whether each identified fee or cost is necessary to accomplish the stated statutory purpose, and compile a list of each identified fee or cost that the office determines is necessary. In conducting the study, OCA is required to consult with local government representatives. The bill also requires the Texas Legislative Council to prepare, for consideration by the 84th Legislature, a revision of statutes as necessary to reflect the costs and fees identified in the study as not necessary. Effective 9/1/2013.

FIRE SAFETY

HB 712 by Murphy. Relating to the responsibility for keeping fire-fighting equipment furnished to a volunteer fire department by a county in good working order. Requires the petitioner for a volunteer fire department to maintain and repair fire-fighting equipment, removing the mandate from the county that donated the equipment. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 702 by Hegar. Relating to certified and insured prescribed burn managers. Requires the Prescribed Burning Board to establish insurance requirements for certified and insured prescribed burn managers in amounts of at least $1 million for each single occurrence of bodily injury or death, or injury to or destruction of property, and with a policy period minimum aggregate limit of at least $2 million. Clarifies that the Local Government Code provisions authorizing the county regulation of outdoor burning do not apply to outdoor burning activities that are conducted by a certified and insured prescribed burn manager. Effective 9/1/2013.

HEALTHCARE

HB 2454 by Frank. Relating to reimbursement of health care services rendered by a health care provider

for an inmate of a county jail or another county correctional facility. Allows a county to credit a health care expenditure for an eligible resident toward eligibility for state assistance if the resident is an inmate of a county jail. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 872 by Deuell. Relating to county expenditures for certain health care services. Allows a county to credit an intergovernmental transfer up to 4 percent of the 8 percent spending threshold required by the Indigent Healthcare and Treatment Act if the transfer was made to provide health care services as part of the Texas Healthcare Transformation and Quality Improvement Program waiver. The commissioners court must determine that the expenditure fulfills the county’s obligations to provide indigent health care and the care’s availability is sufficient enough to meet the requirements of the Indigent Health Care Act. The county must also receive periodic reports from health care providers participating in the waiver that document the number of services provided to persons who are eligible to receive care under the Act. Effective 6/14/2013.

INDIGENT DEFENSE

HB 577 by Guillen. Relating to the representation of certain applicants for writs of habeas corpus in cases involving the death penalty. Clarifies that a public defender’s office may be appointed with respect to an application for a writ of habeas corpus filed in a death penalty case in certain circumstances. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 1318 by Turner, Sylvester. Relating to the appointment of counsel to represent certain youths and indigent defendants. Requires a court appointed attorney to submit information that describes the percentage of the attorney’s practice time that was dedicated to court appointments for indigent defendants to the county each year on a form prescribed by the Texas Indigent Defense Commission (Commission). Requires a county to prepare and provide to the Commission information that describes for the preceding fiscal year the number of court appointments for indigent defendants made to each attorney accepting appointments in the county; and, requires a county to provide to the Commission any plans or proposals submitted to the commissioners court with respect to public defender offices and managed assigned counsel programs, certain contracts relating to a








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contract defender program, and any revisions to plans, proposals, or contracts previously submitted to the Commission. The bill also requires the Commission to conduct a study for the purpose of determining guidelines for establishing a maximum allowable caseload for a criminal defense attorney representing indigent defendants.

Additionally, it prohibits a public defender’s office from accepting an appointment to represent an indigent defendant if the acceptance of the appointment would violate the maximum allowable caseloads established at the office, and requires a court to determine whether the chief public defender has demonstrated adequate good cause for refusing the appointment. It also requires a court, in certain juvenile cases, to appoint counsel within a reasonable time before the first detention hearing to represent the child at that hearing, unless the court finds that the appointment is not feasible due to exigent circumstances. Effective 9/1/2013, except Sections 1 and 6 take effect 9/1/2014.

SB 1044 by Rodriguez. Relating to access to criminal history record information by certain entities, including certain local government corporations, public defender’s offices, and the office of capital writs, and to an exemption for those offices from fees imposed for processing inquiries for that information. Authorizes a public defender’s office and the office of capital writs, as well as certain local government corporations, to access certain criminal history record information from the Department of Public Safety without paying any fees. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1759 by Uresti. Relating to the procedures for the appointment of and the duties of attorneys ad litem in certain suits affecting the parent-child relationship. Clarifies that the court must appoint an attorney ad litem to represent the interests of an indigent parent of a child who is the subject of certain suits filed by a governmental entity in which termination of the parent-child relationship or the appointment of a conservator for a child is requested. Requires an attorney who is on the ad litem appointment list for child protection cases to complete certain continuing education within a certain timeframe, and sets forth specific powers and duties of an attorney ad litem appointed to represent the interests of a parent whose identity or location is unknown or who has

been served by citation by publication. The bill also requires a temporary restraining order or attachment of a child in certain suits brought by a governmental entity to contain a specific statement regarding the right of an indigent parent to a court appointed attorney, and requires a court to comply with certain specified procedures if a parent claims indigence and requests the appointment of an attorney before certain hearings, among other provisions. Effective 9/1/2013.

INVESTMENTS & FINANCIAL SERVICES

SB 581 by Carona. Relating to procedures for securing the deposit of public funds. Removes the statutory requirement of the Public Funds Collateral Act that the collateral trust receipt be delivered by the custodian to the county treasurer. For a deposit of public funds, this bill revises statute to require the custodian, at the written direction of the appropriate public entity officer, to either issue and deliver a trust receipt for the pledged security to the appropriate public entity officer or to issue and deliver the trust receipt to the public entity’s depository with instructions to immediately deliver the trust receipt to the public entity officer. The bill requires the custodian to issue and deliver the trust receipt as soon as practicable on the same business day on which the investment security is received. Effective 6/14/2013.

JUVENILE JUSTICE

HB 144 by Raymond. Relating to a mental examination of a child subject to the juvenile justice system. Allows a juvenile court, at its discretion or at the request of a child’s parent or guardian, to order or request an evaluation for chemical dependency, including when a child is initially detained in a pre or post adjudication facility. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 528 by Turner, Sylvester. Relating to the restriction of access to the records and files of a child charged with or convicted of certain fine-only misdemeanor offenses. Provides that a child’s Class C Misdemeanor (other than traffic offense) records are confidential if the child is charged with, convicted of, has a charge dismissed, is found not guilty, or receives deferred disposition for the offense. Effective 1/1/2014.

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contract defender program, and any revisions to plans, proposals, or contracts previously submitted to the Commission. The bill also requires the Commission to conduct a study for the purpose of determining guidelines for establishing a maximum allowable caseload for a criminal defense attorney representing indigent defendants.

Additionally, it prohibits a public defender’s office from accepting an appointment to represent an indigent defendant if the acceptance of the appointment would violate the maximum allowable caseloads established at the office, and requires a court to determine whether the chief public defender has demonstrated adequate good cause for refusing the appointment. It also requires a court, in certain juvenile cases, to appoint counsel within a reasonable time before the first detention hearing to represent the child at that hearing, unless the court finds that the appointment is not feasible due to exigent circumstances. Effective 9/1/2013, except Sections 1 and 6 take effect 9/1/2014.

SB 1044 by Rodriguez. Relating to access to criminal history record information by certain entities, including certain local government corporations, public defender’s offices, and the office of capital writs, and to an exemption for those offices from fees imposed for processing inquiries for that information. Authorizes a public defender’s office and the office of capital writs, as well as certain local government corporations, to access certain criminal history record information from the Department of Public Safety without paying any fees. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1759 by Uresti. Relating to the procedures for the appointment of and the duties of attorneys ad litem in certain suits affecting the parent-child relationship. Clarifies that the court must appoint an attorney ad litem to represent the interests of an indigent parent of a child who is the subject of certain suits filed by a governmental entity in which termination of the parent-child relationship or the appointment of a conservator for a child is requested. Requires an attorney who is on the ad litem appointment list for child protection cases to complete certain continuing education within a certain timeframe, and sets forth specific powers and duties of an attorney ad litem appointed to represent the interests of a parent whose identity or location is unknown or who has

been served by citation by publication. The bill also requires a temporary restraining order or attachment of a child in certain suits brought by a governmental entity to contain a specific statement regarding the right of an indigent parent to a court appointed attorney, and requires a court to comply with certain specified procedures if a parent claims indigence and requests the appointment of an attorney before certain hearings, among other provisions. Effective 9/1/2013.

INVESTMENTS & FINANCIAL SERVICES

SB 581 by Carona. Relating to procedures for securing the deposit of public funds. Removes the statutory requirement of the Public Funds Collateral Act that the collateral trust receipt be delivered by the custodian to the county treasurer. For a deposit of public funds, this bill revises statute to require the custodian, at the written direction of the appropriate public entity officer, to either issue and deliver a trust receipt for the pledged security to the appropriate public entity officer or to issue and deliver the trust receipt to the public entity’s depository with instructions to immediately deliver the trust receipt to the public entity officer. The bill requires the custodian to issue and deliver the trust receipt as soon as practicable on the same business day on which the investment security is received. Effective 6/14/2013.

JUVENILE JUSTICE

HB 144 by Raymond. Relating to a mental examination of a child subject to the juvenile justice system. Allows a juvenile court, at its discretion or at the request of a child’s parent or guardian, to order or request an evaluation for chemical dependency, including when a child is initially detained in a pre or post adjudication facility. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 528 by Turner, Sylvester. Relating to the restriction of access to the records and files of a child charged with or convicted of certain fine-only misdemeanor offenses. Provides that a child’s Class C Misdemeanor (other than traffic offense) records are confidential if the child is charged with, convicted of, has a charge dismissed, is found not guilty, or receives deferred disposition for the offense. Effective 1/1/2014.

http://www.legis.state.tx.us/BillLookup/Text.aspx?LegSess=83R&Bill=SB1044



http://www.legis.state.tx.us/BillLookup/Text.aspx?LegSess=83R&Bill=HB144


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HB 2733 by White. Relating to the administration and operation of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department. Addresses various statutes relating to the Texas Juvenile Justice Department (TJJD). Allows TJJD to obtain criminal history background information for applicants and certificate holders, offenders committed to the custody of the agency, a person requesting visitation access to a TJJD facility, a contractor who has direct access to juveniles in department facilities, and any person conducting an evaluation of a home. Directs the TJJD to destroy criminal history information after certification, but does not prohibit the agency from disclosing the information in a criminal proceeding or in a hearing conducted by the TJJD. The bill also adds juvenile probation and detention officers, employees of juvenile programs or facilities and employees of the TJJD to the list of persons for whom certain information is exempt from public records. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 2862 by McClendon. Relating to procedures related to juvenile cases. Amends Article 4.19 of the Code of Criminal Procedure; includes language requiring jails holding adults to meet the detention requirements in Section 51.12 of the Family Code when housing a juvenile under age 17 that has been certified as an adult and transferred to the county jail pending trial. The requirements include separation of sight and sound, and staffing as consistent with amendments made in Article 51.12 of the Family Code during the 82nd Legislature. The bill also requires the judge of a criminal court having jurisdiction of a person younger than 17 and certified to stand trial as an adult to transfer the person to an adult facility on the person’s 17th birthday if that person is being detained in a certified juvenile detention facility; provides guidelines for detaining witnesses younger than 17 in certified juvenile facilities for 30 days or longer; outlines procedures for transferring supervision of cases to other entities; requires the Texas Juvenile Justice Department (TJJD) to collect data regarding use of disciplinary seclusion; incorporates the inclusion of additional information that a committing court must provide to the TJJD upon commitment; and outlines specific records for juvenile cases that the district clerk must keep. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 92 by Van de Putte. Relating to the designation of a juvenile court and a program for certain juveniles

who may be the victims of human trafficking. Permits a juvenile board to create a specialized court or diversion program for juveniles believed to be victims of conduct that constitutes an offense of human trafficking, or prostitution. Upon successful completion of the program, the case may be dismissed or records sealed. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 511 by Whitmire. Relating to the commitment of certain juveniles to local post-adjudication secure correctional facilities in certain counties and to the release under supervision of those juveniles. Contains temporary provisions for housing certain juveniles with, or without, determinate sentences in local facilities; the temporary provisions in this bill expire December 31, 2018. Counties with a population between 1 million and 1.5 million and which operate a secure post adjudication detention facility will have the authority to sentence juvenile felony offenders to the secure local facility instead of to a state facility operated by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department. Effective 12/1/2013.

SB 670 by Whitmire. Relating to the copying of certain records and files relating to a child who is a party to a juvenile proceeding. Provides that all entities currently entitled to inspect the records of a juvenile court, prosecutor, probation department, or clerk of the court may now copy the records. Effective 5/24/2013.

SB 717 by West. Relating to consent by a minor to housing or care provided through a transitional living program. Adds a section to the Family Code allowing a minor, age 16 or older, to consent to housing or care for the minor or the minor’s child through a licensed transitional living program in certain circumstances. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 1114 by Whitmire. Relating to the prosecution of certain misdemeanor offenses committed by children and to school district law enforcement. Requires a law enforcement officer who issues a citation or files a complaint for conduct by a child 12 years of age or older that is alleged to have occurred on school property to submit to the court the offense report, a witness statement to the alleged conduct, and a victim statement, if any; a prosecuting attorney is prohibited from proceeding in a trial of an offense unless these requirements are met. Prohibits a law enforcement officer from issuing a citation or filing a complaint for conduct by a child younger than 12 years of age

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HB 2733 by White. Relating to the administration and operation of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department. Addresses various statutes relating to the Texas Juvenile Justice Department (TJJD). Allows TJJD to obtain criminal history background information for applicants and certificate holders, offenders committed to the custody of the agency, a person requesting visitation access to a TJJD facility, a contractor who has direct access to juveniles in department facilities, and any person conducting an evaluation of a home. Directs the TJJD to destroy criminal history information after certification, but does not prohibit the agency from disclosing the information in a criminal proceeding or in a hearing conducted by the TJJD. The bill also adds juvenile probation and detention officers, employees of juvenile programs or facilities and employees of the TJJD to the list of persons for whom certain information is exempt from public records. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 2862 by McClendon. Relating to procedures related to juvenile cases. Amends Article 4.19 of the Code of Criminal Procedure; includes language requiring jails holding adults to meet the detention requirements in Section 51.12 of the Family Code when housing a juvenile under age 17 that has been certified as an adult and transferred to the county jail pending trial. The requirements include separation of sight and sound, and staffing as consistent with amendments made in Article 51.12 of the Family Code during the 82nd Legislature. The bill also requires the judge of a criminal court having jurisdiction of a person younger than 17 and certified to stand trial as an adult to transfer the person to an adult facility on the person’s 17th birthday if that person is being detained in a certified juvenile detention facility; provides guidelines for detaining witnesses younger than 17 in certified juvenile facilities for 30 days or longer; outlines procedures for transferring supervision of cases to other entities; requires the Texas Juvenile Justice Department (TJJD) to collect data regarding use of disciplinary seclusion; incorporates the inclusion of additional information that a committing court must provide to the TJJD upon commitment; and outlines specific records for juvenile cases that the district clerk must keep. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 92 by Van de Putte. Relating to the designation of a juvenile court and a program for certain juveniles

who may be the victims of human trafficking. Permits a juvenile board to create a specialized court or diversion program for juveniles believed to be victims of conduct that constitutes an offense of human trafficking, or prostitution. Upon successful completion of the program, the case may be dismissed or records sealed. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 511 by Whitmire. Relating to the commitment of certain juveniles to local post-adjudication secure correctional facilities in certain counties and to the release under supervision of those juveniles. Contains temporary provisions for housing certain juveniles with, or without, determinate sentences in local facilities; the temporary provisions in this bill expire December 31, 2018. Counties with a population between 1 million and 1.5 million and which operate a secure post adjudication detention facility will have the authority to sentence juvenile felony offenders to the secure local facility instead of to a state facility operated by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department. Effective 12/1/2013.

SB 670 by Whitmire. Relating to the copying of certain records and files relating to a child who is a party to a juvenile proceeding. Provides that all entities currently entitled to inspect the records of a juvenile court, prosecutor, probation department, or clerk of the court may now copy the records. Effective 5/24/2013.

SB 717 by West. Relating to consent by a minor to housing or care provided through a transitional living program. Adds a section to the Family Code allowing a minor, age 16 or older, to consent to housing or care for the minor or the minor’s child through a licensed transitional living program in certain circumstances. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 1114 by Whitmire. Relating to the prosecution of certain misdemeanor offenses committed by children and to school district law enforcement. Requires a law enforcement officer who issues a citation or files a complaint for conduct by a child 12 years of age or older that is alleged to have occurred on school property to submit to the court the offense report, a witness statement to the alleged conduct, and a victim statement, if any; a prosecuting attorney is prohibited from proceeding in a trial of an offense unless these requirements are met. Prohibits a law enforcement officer from issuing a citation or filing a complaint for conduct by a child younger than 12 years of age








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that is alleged to have occurred on school property, or on certain vehicles, that is under the jurisdiction of municipal and justice courts. Additionally, the bill prohibits a warrant from being issued for the arrest of a person for a Class C misdemeanor under the Education Code committed when the person was younger than 17 years of age, and prohibits charging a primary or secondary grade student with the offenses of disruption of a class or transportation, among other provisions. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1356 by Van de Putte. Relating to human trafficking and its victims and the care of juveniles who have experienced traumatic events. Requires juvenile boards to adopt rules to require probation officers, juvenile supervision officers and court-supervised community-based program personnel to receive trauma-informed care training, and requires the Texas Juvenile Justice Department to provide the training to juvenile justice professionals. Additionally, the bill requires the Juvenile Justice Department to evaluate the practices and screening procedures used by juvenile probation departments for the early identification of juveniles who are victims of sex trafficking for the purpose of developing a recommended set of best practices for juvenile probation departments. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1419 by West. Relating to funding for juvenile case managers through certain court costs and to the establishment of the truancy prevention and diversion fund. Authorizes a court to employ a juvenile case manager to provide services to juveniles referred to a court by a school administrator for misconduct prior to a case being filed in court, or employ one or more juvenile case managers who shall assist the court in administering the juvenile docket and who may provide prevention services to a child considered at risk of entering the juvenile justice system. The bill also establishes the truancy prevention and diversion fund as a dedicated account in the general revenue fund and authorizes a $2 court cost for persons convicted in municipal or justice court of an offense, other than an offense relating to a pedestrian or parking. The court cost will be collected in addition to and in the same manner as other fines and costs, with deposits into the county treasury. Fifty percent of funds collected may be retained by the county for the purpose of operating or establishing a juvenile case manager program. Additionally, the bill authorizes

local governments to request available funds from the governor’s criminal justice division for truancy and intervention services. Effective 9/1/2013.

LAW ENFORCEMENT

HB 48 by Flynn. Relating to the procedure under which a person may renew a license to carry a concealed handgun. Authorizes the Department of Public Safety (DPS) to set up a system for eligible handgun licensees to renew by mail or through the internet. Also requires DPS to mail an informational form to each license holder describing state laws regarding the use of deadly force and the places where it is unlawful for the holder of a license to carry a concealed handgun. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 434 by Riddle. Relating to the persons authorized to take a blood specimen from a vehicle operator to test for alcohol concentration or other intoxicating substances. Adds certain licensed or certified emergency medical technicians to the list of persons authorized to take a blood specimen at the request or order of a peace officer to test for alcohol concentration or other intoxicating substances. Allows the emergency medical technician to take the blood specimen only if authorized by the medical director for the entity that employs the technician and requires that the specimen be taken in accordance with a protocol developed by the medical director. The bill also requires a peace officer to observe the taking of the blood specimen and immediately take possession of the specimen for chain of custody purposes if an emergency medical technician takes a specimen. Additionally, it removes a chemist from the list of those persons authorized to take a blood specimen at a peace officer’s request or order. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 698 by Springer. Relating to certain procedures for submitting legible and classifiable fingerprints with an application for a license to carry a concealed handgun. Requires the Department of Public Safety to establish procedures for the submission of fingerprints by applicants who reside in a county with a population of 46,000 or fewer and who do not live within 25 miles of a facility with the capability to process digital or electronic fingerprints. Effective 9/1/2013.

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that is alleged to have occurred on school property, or on certain vehicles, that is under the jurisdiction of municipal and justice courts. Additionally, the bill prohibits a warrant from being issued for the arrest of a person for a Class C misdemeanor under the Education Code committed when the person was younger than 17 years of age, and prohibits charging a primary or secondary grade student with the offenses of disruption of a class or transportation, among other provisions. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1356 by Van de Putte. Relating to human trafficking and its victims and the care of juveniles who have experienced traumatic events. Requires juvenile boards to adopt rules to require probation officers, juvenile supervision officers and court-supervised community-based program personnel to receive trauma-informed care training, and requires the Texas Juvenile Justice Department to provide the training to juvenile justice professionals. Additionally, the bill requires the Juvenile Justice Department to evaluate the practices and screening procedures used by juvenile probation departments for the early identification of juveniles who are victims of sex trafficking for the purpose of developing a recommended set of best practices for juvenile probation departments. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1419 by West. Relating to funding for juvenile case managers through certain court costs and to the establishment of the truancy prevention and diversion fund. Authorizes a court to employ a juvenile case manager to provide services to juveniles referred to a court by a school administrator for misconduct prior to a case being filed in court, or employ one or more juvenile case managers who shall assist the court in administering the juvenile docket and who may provide prevention services to a child considered at risk of entering the juvenile justice system. The bill also establishes the truancy prevention and diversion fund as a dedicated account in the general revenue fund and authorizes a $2 court cost for persons convicted in municipal or justice court of an offense, other than an offense relating to a pedestrian or parking. The court cost will be collected in addition to and in the same manner as other fines and costs, with deposits into the county treasury. Fifty percent of funds collected may be retained by the county for the purpose of operating or establishing a juvenile case manager program. Additionally, the bill authorizes

local governments to request available funds from the governor’s criminal justice division for truancy and intervention services. Effective 9/1/2013.

LAW ENFORCEMENT

HB 48 by Flynn. Relating to the procedure under which a person may renew a license to carry a concealed handgun. Authorizes the Department of Public Safety (DPS) to set up a system for eligible handgun licensees to renew by mail or through the internet. Also requires DPS to mail an informational form to each license holder describing state laws regarding the use of deadly force and the places where it is unlawful for the holder of a license to carry a concealed handgun. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 434 by Riddle. Relating to the persons authorized to take a blood specimen from a vehicle operator to test for alcohol concentration or other intoxicating substances. Adds certain licensed or certified emergency medical technicians to the list of persons authorized to take a blood specimen at the request or order of a peace officer to test for alcohol concentration or other intoxicating substances. Allows the emergency medical technician to take the blood specimen only if authorized by the medical director for the entity that employs the technician and requires that the specimen be taken in accordance with a protocol developed by the medical director. The bill also requires a peace officer to observe the taking of the blood specimen and immediately take possession of the specimen for chain of custody purposes if an emergency medical technician takes a specimen. Additionally, it removes a chemist from the list of those persons authorized to take a blood specimen at a peace officer’s request or order. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 698 by Springer. Relating to certain procedures for submitting legible and classifiable fingerprints with an application for a license to carry a concealed handgun. Requires the Department of Public Safety to establish procedures for the submission of fingerprints by applicants who reside in a county with a population of 46,000 or fewer and who do not live within 25 miles of a facility with the capability to process digital or electronic fingerprints. Effective 9/1/2013.






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HB 912 by Gooden. Relating to images captured by unmanned aircraft and other images and recordings; providing penalties. Creates an offense if a person uses an unmanned aircraft to capture an image of an individual or privately owned real property in this state with the intent to conduct surveillance on the individual or property captured in the image; a violation is a Class C misdemeanor. Also creates a Class B misdemeanor offense if a person captures such an image and discloses, displays, distributes, or otherwise uses that image. The bill specifies certain defenses to prosecution, as well as particular circumstances where the capturing of such an image would be lawful, including certain law enforcement activities, and authorizes a civil action and civil penalty for certain violations.

Requires the Department of Public Safety to adopt rules for the use of an unmanned aircraft by a law enforcement authority in this state. Additionally, the bill requires a municipal or county law enforcement agency located in a county or municipality with a population greater than 150,000, that uses or operates an unmanned aircraft, to issue a written report with certain specified information to the governor, lieutenant governor, and each member of the legislature, retain the report for public viewing, and post the report on the entity’s website, if one exists. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 1009 by Villalba. Relating to the creation of a new category of law enforcement officer who shall be designated a school marshal, the training and appointment of certain employees of a school district or open-enrollment charter school as school marshals, and the rights, restrictions, limitations, and responsibilities of school marshals; authorizing the imposition of a fee. Allows a school district or open enrollment charter school to employ a school marshal to make arrests and exercise all authority provided to peace officers only as necessary to prevent or abate the commission of an offense that threatens serious bodily injury or death to individuals on school property. A school marshal may not issue a traffic citation and is not entitled to state benefits normally provided to peace officers by the state. A school marshal may carry a concealed handgun unless the marshal’s primary duties involve regular, direct contact with students. The identity of a school marshal is confidential and not subject to public

information requests. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 1206 by Parker. Relating to the duties of a law enforcement agency regarding certain children who are reported to be missing. Requires a local law enforcement agency to immediately make a reasonable effort to locate and determine the well being of a child upon receiving a report of the child missing for not less than 48 hours and under the circumstances of being taken or retained without permission of the child’s guardian. The bill requires the agency, on determining the location of the child, to contact the Department of Family and Protective Services, and allows the agency to take possession of the child if there is reason to believe the child is a victim of abuse or neglect. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 1302 by Clardy. Relating to the imposition of a sentence of life without parole on certain repeat sex offenders and to certain restrictions on employment for certain sex offenders. Expands the types of sexually violent offenses that are subject to the punishment of life without parole, prohibits certain sex offenders from certain employment involving the operation of buses, taxi cabs, and amusement rides, and requires a local law enforcement authority that provides a registration form for verification to a sex offender subject to these employment prohibitions to include with the form a statement summarizing the types of employment that are prohibited for that person. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 1349 by Larson. Relating to information that may be requested by the Department of Public Safety from a person applying for or renewing a concealed handgun license. Clarifies that the Department of Public Safety is not required to request, and an applicant is not required to provide, the applicant’s social security number in an application for a concealed handgun license. Effective 1/1/2014.

HB 1421 by Perry. Relating to the disposition of certain seized weapons. Allows a magistrate to order a seized weapon to be sold at a public sale or auction, in certain circumstances, after notification to the person from whom the weapon was seized. Only a firearms dealer licensed under 18 USC Section 923 may purchase a weapon at public sale. Proceeds from the sale shall be transferred to the law enforcement agency holding the weapon only after deductions of court costs and auction costs are distributed. Effective 9/1/2013.

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HB 912 by Gooden. Relating to images captured by unmanned aircraft and other images and recordings; providing penalties. Creates an offense if a person uses an unmanned aircraft to capture an image of an individual or privately owned real property in this state with the intent to conduct surveillance on the individual or property captured in the image; a violation is a Class C misdemeanor. Also creates a Class B misdemeanor offense if a person captures such an image and discloses, displays, distributes, or otherwise uses that image. The bill specifies certain defenses to prosecution, as well as particular circumstances where the capturing of such an image would be lawful, including certain law enforcement activities, and authorizes a civil action and civil penalty for certain violations.

Requires the Department of Public Safety to adopt rules for the use of an unmanned aircraft by a law enforcement authority in this state. Additionally, the bill requires a municipal or county law enforcement agency located in a county or municipality with a population greater than 150,000, that uses or operates an unmanned aircraft, to issue a written report with certain specified information to the governor, lieutenant governor, and each member of the legislature, retain the report for public viewing, and post the report on the entity’s website, if one exists. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 1009 by Villalba. Relating to the creation of a new category of law enforcement officer who shall be designated a school marshal, the training and appointment of certain employees of a school district or open-enrollment charter school as school marshals, and the rights, restrictions, limitations, and responsibilities of school marshals; authorizing the imposition of a fee. Allows a school district or open enrollment charter school to employ a school marshal to make arrests and exercise all authority provided to peace officers only as necessary to prevent or abate the commission of an offense that threatens serious bodily injury or death to individuals on school property. A school marshal may not issue a traffic citation and is not entitled to state benefits normally provided to peace officers by the state. A school marshal may carry a concealed handgun unless the marshal’s primary duties involve regular, direct contact with students. The identity of a school marshal is confidential and not subject to public

information requests. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 1206 by Parker. Relating to the duties of a law enforcement agency regarding certain children who are reported to be missing. Requires a local law enforcement agency to immediately make a reasonable effort to locate and determine the well being of a child upon receiving a report of the child missing for not less than 48 hours and under the circumstances of being taken or retained without permission of the child’s guardian. The bill requires the agency, on determining the location of the child, to contact the Department of Family and Protective Services, and allows the agency to take possession of the child if there is reason to believe the child is a victim of abuse or neglect. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 1302 by Clardy. Relating to the imposition of a sentence of life without parole on certain repeat sex offenders and to certain restrictions on employment for certain sex offenders. Expands the types of sexually violent offenses that are subject to the punishment of life without parole, prohibits certain sex offenders from certain employment involving the operation of buses, taxi cabs, and amusement rides, and requires a local law enforcement authority that provides a registration form for verification to a sex offender subject to these employment prohibitions to include with the form a statement summarizing the types of employment that are prohibited for that person. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 1349 by Larson. Relating to information that may be requested by the Department of Public Safety from a person applying for or renewing a concealed handgun license. Clarifies that the Department of Public Safety is not required to request, and an applicant is not required to provide, the applicant’s social security number in an application for a concealed handgun license. Effective 1/1/2014.

HB 1421 by Perry. Relating to the disposition of certain seized weapons. Allows a magistrate to order a seized weapon to be sold at a public sale or auction, in certain circumstances, after notification to the person from whom the weapon was seized. Only a firearms dealer licensed under 18 USC Section 923 may purchase a weapon at public sale. Proceeds from the sale shall be transferred to the law enforcement agency holding the weapon only after deductions of court costs and auction costs are distributed. Effective 9/1/2013.







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HB 1690 by Fletcher. Relating to measures to prevent or control the entry into or spread in this state of certain communicable diseases; providing a penalty. Authorizes a sheriff or constable to use reasonable force to secure members of a group with an order from the health department to limit or prohibit introduction, transmission or spread of disease; secure a property and/or a quarantine area under a court order; and prevent an individual from entering or leaving a property. Authorizes a judge or magistrate to order a sheriff or constable to prevent a person who is the subject of a protective order from leaving a facility designated to detain a person if the judge finds a public health threat exists. The bill also allows a protective custody order to direct an emergency services provider to immediately transport a person to an inpatient health facility; the provider may seek reimbursement for the costs of the transport from any appropriate source. It allows a person ordered to remain in isolation or quarantine to appear for a court hearing by teleconference, and makes it a Class A misdemeanor for a person under protective custody order or temporary detention order to resist or evade apprehension or transport to a health facility. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 1819 by Kacal. Relating to liability for injuring a trespassing sheep or goat. Adds sheep and goats to the list of protected livestock in the instance that a property owner’s fence is insufficient to keep the trespassing animals off the property. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 1931 by Guillen. Relating to compensation of property owners whose property is damaged as a result of a pursuit involving a law enforcement agency. Authorizes a district attorney, criminal district attorney, or county attorney performing the duties of a district attorney to use certain funds to compensate property owners whose vehicle, aircraft, watercraft, or outboard motor was damaged as a result of a pursuit involving a law enforcement agency in a county with a population of less than 150,000. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 1951 by Thompson, Senfronia. Relating to the licensing and regulation of telecommunicators; providing a criminal penalty. Increases the criteria and eligibility for employment as a telecommunicator (dispatcher) and mandates a minimum of 20 hours training every 24 months. Effective 1/1/2014, except Section 12 takes effect on 9/1/2013.

HB 2304 by Rodriguez, Eddie. Relating to the certification of sheriffs and deputy sheriffs to enforce commercial motor vehicle safety standards in certain counties. Authorizes a sheriff or deputy sheriff of a county bordering Mexico or a county with a population of one million or more to apply for certification to enforce commercial motor vehicle safety standards. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 2690 by Elkins. Relating to the sale of a vehicle by an unlicensed seller; creating an offense. Amends Chapter 503 of the Transportation Code to authorize a peace officer to have a vehicle that is for sale by a dealer that does not have a “Dealer General Distinguishing Number” towed from the location and stored at a vehicle storage facility if certain conditions are met. A peace officer, an appropriate local government employee or an investigator will be required to comply with specified notice requirements. A peace officer will be allowed to prevent a person from removing a vehicle unless that individual provides evidence of ownership. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 3142 by Bell. Relating to handguns used to demonstrate proficiency in handgun use for purposes of obtaining a concealed handgun license. Removes provisions throughout various statutes that authorize a concealed handgun license holder to carry only the category of firearm for which they displayed proficiency. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 3370 by Craddick. Relating to the authority of certain retired peace officers and former reserve law enforcement officers to carry certain firearms. Allows retired and former reserve law enforcement officers with at least 15 years of service in state or local law enforcement agencies to apply for a license to carry certain firearms. The bill requires those who obtain licenses to maintain a certain level of weapons proficiency, while meeting other eligibility standards. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 3838 by Phillips. Relating to motorcycle equipment and training and the license requirements for a three-wheeled motorcycle; creating an offense. Requires the Department of Public Safety to issue a Class M license that is restricted to the operation of only three-wheeled motorcycles to a person who has completed a course specifically designed for operating a three-wheeled motorcycle. The bill also requires motorcycles designed to carry more than one

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HB 1690 by Fletcher. Relating to measures to prevent or control the entry into or spread in this state of certain communicable diseases; providing a penalty. Authorizes a sheriff or constable to use reasonable force to secure members of a group with an order from the health department to limit or prohibit introduction, transmission or spread of disease; secure a property and/or a quarantine area under a court order; and prevent an individual from entering or leaving a property. Authorizes a judge or magistrate to order a sheriff or constable to prevent a person who is the subject of a protective order from leaving a facility designated to detain a person if the judge finds a public health threat exists. The bill also allows a protective custody order to direct an emergency services provider to immediately transport a person to an inpatient health facility; the provider may seek reimbursement for the costs of the transport from any appropriate source. It allows a person ordered to remain in isolation or quarantine to appear for a court hearing by teleconference, and makes it a Class A misdemeanor for a person under protective custody order or temporary detention order to resist or evade apprehension or transport to a health facility. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 1819 by Kacal. Relating to liability for injuring a trespassing sheep or goat. Adds sheep and goats to the list of protected livestock in the instance that a property owner’s fence is insufficient to keep the trespassing animals off the property. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 1931 by Guillen. Relating to compensation of property owners whose property is damaged as a result of a pursuit involving a law enforcement agency. Authorizes a district attorney, criminal district attorney, or county attorney performing the duties of a district attorney to use certain funds to compensate property owners whose vehicle, aircraft, watercraft, or outboard motor was damaged as a result of a pursuit involving a law enforcement agency in a county with a population of less than 150,000. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 1951 by Thompson, Senfronia. Relating to the licensing and regulation of telecommunicators; providing a criminal penalty. Increases the criteria and eligibility for employment as a telecommunicator (dispatcher) and mandates a minimum of 20 hours training every 24 months. Effective 1/1/2014, except Section 12 takes effect on 9/1/2013.

HB 2304 by Rodriguez, Eddie. Relating to the certification of sheriffs and deputy sheriffs to enforce commercial motor vehicle safety standards in certain counties. Authorizes a sheriff or deputy sheriff of a county bordering Mexico or a county with a population of one million or more to apply for certification to enforce commercial motor vehicle safety standards. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 2690 by Elkins. Relating to the sale of a vehicle by an unlicensed seller; creating an offense. Amends Chapter 503 of the Transportation Code to authorize a peace officer to have a vehicle that is for sale by a dealer that does not have a “Dealer General Distinguishing Number” towed from the location and stored at a vehicle storage facility if certain conditions are met. A peace officer, an appropriate local government employee or an investigator will be required to comply with specified notice requirements. A peace officer will be allowed to prevent a person from removing a vehicle unless that individual provides evidence of ownership. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 3142 by Bell. Relating to handguns used to demonstrate proficiency in handgun use for purposes of obtaining a concealed handgun license. Removes provisions throughout various statutes that authorize a concealed handgun license holder to carry only the category of firearm for which they displayed proficiency. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 3370 by Craddick. Relating to the authority of certain retired peace officers and former reserve law enforcement officers to carry certain firearms. Allows retired and former reserve law enforcement officers with at least 15 years of service in state or local law enforcement agencies to apply for a license to carry certain firearms. The bill requires those who obtain licenses to maintain a certain level of weapons proficiency, while meeting other eligibility standards. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 3838 by Phillips. Relating to motorcycle equipment and training and the license requirements for a three-wheeled motorcycle; creating an offense. Requires the Department of Public Safety to issue a Class M license that is restricted to the operation of only three-wheeled motorcycles to a person who has completed a course specifically designed for operating a three-wheeled motorcycle. The bill also requires motorcycles designed to carry more than one










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person to be equipped with footrests and handholds for use by the passenger, effective January 1, 2015. Additionally, the bill makes it a Class B misdemeanor offense if a person offers or conducts a training course in motorcycle operation without being licensed or contracted by the designated state agency. Effective 9/1/2013, except Section 4 takes effect 1/1/2015.

SB 164 by Van de Putte. Relating to the issuance to veterans of specially marked licenses to carry a concealed handgun and specially marked personal identification certificates. Amends current law to allow a veteran to request a special marking on a personal identification card or concealed handgun license if proof of military service and honorable discharge is provided to the Department of Public Safety. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 174 by Estes. Relating to the control of stray bison and other estrays. Adds bison to the list of estray animals which must be dealt with by the sheriff’s department, including efforts to notify the owner and impoundment of the estray. The bill authorizes the sheriff or sheriff’s designee to immediately dispose of the estray by any means without notice to the owner in the instance that a stray bison presents a perilous condition; a written report of the disposition must be submitted to the county clerk for entry into the county estray records. Effective 5/10/2013.

SB 181 by Hegar. Relating to verification of motor vehicle financial responsibility information. Authorizes a driver to demonstrate proof of vehicle insurance to a peace officer via an image displayed on a wireless communication device. Prohibits a peace officer who has access to the state’s financial responsibility verification program from issuing a citation for failure to maintain vehicle insurance unless the officer attempts to verify through the program that insurance has been established and is unable to make that verification. Additionally, the bill clarifies the display of insurance information on a wireless communication device does not constitute effective consent for a law enforcement officer to access the contents of the device except to view the insurance information, and does not prevent a court from requiring a person to provide a paper copy of proof of insurance in a hearing or trial. Effective 5/24/2013.

SB 562 by Carona. Relating to the license qualifications and continuing education requirements for polygraph

examiners. Amends the Occupations Code relating to the license qualifications and continuing education requirements for polygraph examiners and sets standards for employment as a polygraph examiner. Directs the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (formerly the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Standards and Education) to provide continuing education requirements for license holders. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 686 by Huffman. Relating to the change of the name of the Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education to the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement. Changes the name of the state agency, throughout various statutes, to the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement. Effective 5/18/2013.

SB 742 by Carona. Relating to reports of missing children, missing persons, or attempted child abductions and to education and training for peace officers regarding missing or exploited children. Adds attempted child abductions to the clearinghouse for missing children and persons. Requires law enforcement to report attempted child abductions to the clearinghouse by use of the Texas Law Enforcement Telecommunications System and immediately, or within eight hours, report all information relating to the attempted abduction. The bill requires the Department of Public Safety to adopt rules relating to procedures for reporting a missing child. Additionally, it requires the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement to establish an education and training program on missing and exploited children; after January 1, 2015, an officer seeking an intermediate or advanced proficiency certificate must complete the course. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 864 by Campbell. Relating to a handgun proficiency course that is taken to obtain or renew a concealed handgun license. Amends current law by lowering the number of classroom hours required to obtain or renew a concealed handgun license from 10-15 hours down to 4-6 hours. Allows the classroom and written portions of the renewal examination to be completed online. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 965 by Williams. Relating to the correction of employment termination reports for law enforcement officers. Allows an administrative law judge and the State Office of Administrative Hearings to order the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement

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person to be equipped with footrests and handholds for use by the passenger, effective January 1, 2015. Additionally, the bill makes it a Class B misdemeanor offense if a person offers or conducts a training course in motorcycle operation without being licensed or contracted by the designated state agency. Effective 9/1/2013, except Section 4 takes effect 1/1/2015.

SB 164 by Van de Putte. Relating to the issuance to veterans of specially marked licenses to carry a concealed handgun and specially marked personal identification certificates. Amends current law to allow a veteran to request a special marking on a personal identification card or concealed handgun license if proof of military service and honorable discharge is provided to the Department of Public Safety. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 174 by Estes. Relating to the control of stray bison and other estrays. Adds bison to the list of estray animals which must be dealt with by the sheriff’s department, including efforts to notify the owner and impoundment of the estray. The bill authorizes the sheriff or sheriff’s designee to immediately dispose of the estray by any means without notice to the owner in the instance that a stray bison presents a perilous condition; a written report of the disposition must be submitted to the county clerk for entry into the county estray records. Effective 5/10/2013.

SB 181 by Hegar. Relating to verification of motor vehicle financial responsibility information. Authorizes a driver to demonstrate proof of vehicle insurance to a peace officer via an image displayed on a wireless communication device. Prohibits a peace officer who has access to the state’s financial responsibility verification program from issuing a citation for failure to maintain vehicle insurance unless the officer attempts to verify through the program that insurance has been established and is unable to make that verification. Additionally, the bill clarifies the display of insurance information on a wireless communication device does not constitute effective consent for a law enforcement officer to access the contents of the device except to view the insurance information, and does not prevent a court from requiring a person to provide a paper copy of proof of insurance in a hearing or trial. Effective 5/24/2013.

SB 562 by Carona. Relating to the license qualifications and continuing education requirements for polygraph

examiners. Amends the Occupations Code relating to the license qualifications and continuing education requirements for polygraph examiners and sets standards for employment as a polygraph examiner. Directs the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (formerly the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Standards and Education) to provide continuing education requirements for license holders. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 686 by Huffman. Relating to the change of the name of the Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education to the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement. Changes the name of the state agency, throughout various statutes, to the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement. Effective 5/18/2013.

SB 742 by Carona. Relating to reports of missing children, missing persons, or attempted child abductions and to education and training for peace officers regarding missing or exploited children. Adds attempted child abductions to the clearinghouse for missing children and persons. Requires law enforcement to report attempted child abductions to the clearinghouse by use of the Texas Law Enforcement Telecommunications System and immediately, or within eight hours, report all information relating to the attempted abduction. The bill requires the Department of Public Safety to adopt rules relating to procedures for reporting a missing child. Additionally, it requires the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement to establish an education and training program on missing and exploited children; after January 1, 2015, an officer seeking an intermediate or advanced proficiency certificate must complete the course. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 864 by Campbell. Relating to a handgun proficiency course that is taken to obtain or renew a concealed handgun license. Amends current law by lowering the number of classroom hours required to obtain or renew a concealed handgun license from 10-15 hours down to 4-6 hours. Allows the classroom and written portions of the renewal examination to be completed online. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 965 by Williams. Relating to the correction of employment termination reports for law enforcement officers. Allows an administrative law judge and the State Office of Administrative Hearings to order the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement









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(Commission) to change a termination status upon hearing a petition for change of termination status if the alleged misconduct is not supported by a preponderance of the evidence. If a change is ordered, the Commission is required to send the corrected termination report to the terminating law enforcement agency for replacement of the original in the employment file. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1010 by Taylor. Relating to access to certain facilities by search and rescue dogs and their handlers; providing a criminal penalty. Prohibits a public facility from discriminating and denying a search and rescue dog or their handler admittance to the facility, and establishes a criminal penalty as a misdemeanor offense punishable by a fine of $300-$1000. Additionally, the bill authorizes a cause of action against a dog’s handler for personal injury, property damage, or death resulting from the failure of the dog’s handler to property harness or leash the dog under specified law. A governmental unit and a public servant are liable only as provided by certain specified provisions of the Civil Practice and Remedies Code. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1189 by Huffman. Relating to the disposition of certain firearms seized by a law enforcement agency. Provides law enforcement the authority and guidelines for the disposition of firearms seized when a person is taken into custody without a warrant due to mental health crisis. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1907 by Hegar. Relating to the transportation and storage of firearms and ammunition by concealed handgun license holders in private vehicles on the campuses of certain institutions of higher education. Prohibits an institution of higher education, including private or independent schools from adopting or enforcing any rule, regulation, or other provision or taking action, including posting notice prohibiting or placing restrictions on the storage or transportation of a firearm or ammunition in a locked, privately owned or leased motor vehicle by a person, including a student enrolled at that institution, who holds a license to carry a concealed handgun and lawfully possesses the firearm or ammunition. Effective 9/1/2013.

MENTAL HEALTH

HB 908 by Nevarez. Relating to the assessment of an elderly or disabled person’s psychological status for purposes of an emergency order authorizing protective services. Adds Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) to the list of professionals authorized to perform psychological assessments of disabled or elderly persons who might be suffering from abuse, neglect, or exploitation. Current law only allows master social workers or licensed psychologists to perform the assessments; the addition of LPCs will enhance emergency protective services in rural areas of the state where other authorized professionals may be scarce. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 978 by Raymond. Relating to the transportation of certain patients to a mental health facility. Reprioritizes the list of eligible persons who may transport a patient to a mental health facility and moves “a relative or other responsible person who has a proper interest in the person’s welfare” from third on the list to sixth (last). Additionally, the bill prohibits a person from transporting a patient to another state for inpatient mental health services unless the transport is authorized by a court order. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 1023 by Burkett. Relating to recommendations by the Health and Human Services Commission or a designated health and human services agency regarding mental health workforce shortages. Requires the Health and Human Services Commission to work with other agencies to use existing data to evaluate mental health workforce shortages around the state. Additionally, it requires the commission to submit a report to the legislature by September 1, 2014 that includes recommendations to alleviate workforce shortages, provides the costs and benefits of implementing the recommendations, and provides any legislative actions needed. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 1191 by Burkett. Relating to certain information about housing for persons with mental illness provided through the Texas Information and Referral Network Internet site. Adds a searchable listing of available housing options for persons with mental illness, including a definition for each type of housing and an explanation of the populations of persons with mental illness generally served by

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(Commission) to change a termination status upon hearing a petition for change of termination status if the alleged misconduct is not supported by a preponderance of the evidence. If a change is ordered, the Commission is required to send the corrected termination report to the terminating law enforcement agency for replacement of the original in the employment file. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1010 by Taylor. Relating to access to certain facilities by search and rescue dogs and their handlers; providing a criminal penalty. Prohibits a public facility from discriminating and denying a search and rescue dog or their handler admittance to the facility, and establishes a criminal penalty as a misdemeanor offense punishable by a fine of $300-$1000. Additionally, the bill authorizes a cause of action against a dog’s handler for personal injury, property damage, or death resulting from the failure of the dog’s handler to property harness or leash the dog under specified law. A governmental unit and a public servant are liable only as provided by certain specified provisions of the Civil Practice and Remedies Code. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1189 by Huffman. Relating to the disposition of certain firearms seized by a law enforcement agency. Provides law enforcement the authority and guidelines for the disposition of firearms seized when a person is taken into custody without a warrant due to mental health crisis. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1907 by Hegar. Relating to the transportation and storage of firearms and ammunition by concealed handgun license holders in private vehicles on the campuses of certain institutions of higher education. Prohibits an institution of higher education, including private or independent schools from adopting or enforcing any rule, regulation, or other provision or taking action, including posting notice prohibiting or placing restrictions on the storage or transportation of a firearm or ammunition in a locked, privately owned or leased motor vehicle by a person, including a student enrolled at that institution, who holds a license to carry a concealed handgun and lawfully possesses the firearm or ammunition. Effective 9/1/2013.

MENTAL HEALTH

HB 908 by Nevarez. Relating to the assessment of an elderly or disabled person’s psychological status for purposes of an emergency order authorizing protective services. Adds Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) to the list of professionals authorized to perform psychological assessments of disabled or elderly persons who might be suffering from abuse, neglect, or exploitation. Current law only allows master social workers or licensed psychologists to perform the assessments; the addition of LPCs will enhance emergency protective services in rural areas of the state where other authorized professionals may be scarce. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 978 by Raymond. Relating to the transportation of certain patients to a mental health facility. Reprioritizes the list of eligible persons who may transport a patient to a mental health facility and moves “a relative or other responsible person who has a proper interest in the person’s welfare” from third on the list to sixth (last). Additionally, the bill prohibits a person from transporting a patient to another state for inpatient mental health services unless the transport is authorized by a court order. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 1023 by Burkett. Relating to recommendations by the Health and Human Services Commission or a designated health and human services agency regarding mental health workforce shortages. Requires the Health and Human Services Commission to work with other agencies to use existing data to evaluate mental health workforce shortages around the state. Additionally, it requires the commission to submit a report to the legislature by September 1, 2014 that includes recommendations to alleviate workforce shortages, provides the costs and benefits of implementing the recommendations, and provides any legislative actions needed. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 1191 by Burkett. Relating to certain information about housing for persons with mental illness provided through the Texas Information and Referral Network Internet site. Adds a searchable listing of available housing options for persons with mental illness, including a definition for each type of housing and an explanation of the populations of persons with mental illness generally served by








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that type of housing, to the Texas Information and Referral Network so that persons with mental illness can be linked to appropriate housing and support in an effort to decrease recycling through the criminal justice system. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 1738 by Naishtat. Relating to the emergency detention by a peace officer of a person who may have mental illness, including information provided to the person subject to detention and a standard form of notification of detention to be provided to a facility by a peace officer. Directs peace officers to immediately inform persons, taken into custody without a warrant, of the reason for the detention and that a staff member of the mental health facility or hospital will inform them of their rights within 24 hours. Additionally, the bill provides a standard notification of detention form for peace officers to use when admitting persons in mental crisis to a mental health facility or hospital. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 2392 by Menendez. Relating to the mental health program for veterans. Directs the Department of State Health Services to implement a veterans’ mental health program that would include jail diversion services and veteran courts. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 3793 by Coleman. Relating to powers, duties, and services of entities serving counties and county residents. Directs the Department of State Health Services to plan for the allocation and funding of an appropriate number of state mental hospital beds and outpatient treatment beds. Establishes a planning advisory committee to review the state’s resources and the efficient provision of mental health services. In addition, the bill expands the list of mental health disorders eligible for assessment and treatment by local mental health authorities. The expansion of treatment for disorders such as post traumatic stress, obsessive compulsive, attention deficit, eating and other disorders will be prioritized only after bipolar, schizophrenia and depression are treated and depending on availability of funds. Local mental health authorities are required to include jail diversion strategies in their management plans. Effective 9/1/2013, except Section 2 takes effect 1/1/2014.

SB 34 by Zaffirini. Relating to the administration of psychoactive medications to persons receiving services in certain facilities. Permits a physician who is treating a client to file an application in a probate

court or a court with probate jurisdiction on behalf of the state for an order to authorize the administration of a psychoactive medication regardless of the client’s refusal if: the doctor believes the patient lacks the capacity to make a medication related decision; if the doctor determines the medication is the proper course of treatment; and, if the client has been committed to a residential facility under Chapter 593 of the Health and Safety Code. Additionally, the bill authorizes a court to issue an order authorizing the administration of psychoactive medication to a client who is in custody awaiting trial in a criminal proceeding and was committed to a residential care facility in the six months preceding a hearing, has remained confined in a correctional facility for a period exceeding 72 hours while awaiting transfer for competency restoration treatment, and presents a danger to self or others as a result of a mental disorder or mental defect. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 58 by Nelson. Relating to delivery of and reporting on mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and certain other services. Amends current law relating to the integration of behavioral health and physical health services into the Medicaid managed care program. Requires the Department of State Health Services (DSHS), to the extent funds are appropriated, to make grants to entities, including local governments, nonprofit community organizations and faith-based community organizations. DSHS is also required to establish or expand community collaborative efforts that bring the public and private sectors together to provide services to persons experiencing homelessness and mental illness. The bill also establishes a substance abuse and mental health public reporting system which will allow the public and the legislature to evaluate the outcomes of services. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 646 by Deuell. Relating to court-ordered outpatient mental health services. Allows a judge to notify a mental health provider that a patient may be ordered for outpatient treatment services and directs the provider to develop a treatment plan and be accountable to the court and the patient for the plan. Directs the Department of State Health Services, not later than December 1, 2016, to submit a report to the legislature about persons receiving court ordered mental health treatment and the effectiveness of those services. Effective 9/1/2013.

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that type of housing, to the Texas Information and Referral Network so that persons with mental illness can be linked to appropriate housing and support in an effort to decrease recycling through the criminal justice system. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 1738 by Naishtat. Relating to the emergency detention by a peace officer of a person who may have mental illness, including information provided to the person subject to detention and a standard form of notification of detention to be provided to a facility by a peace officer. Directs peace officers to immediately inform persons, taken into custody without a warrant, of the reason for the detention and that a staff member of the mental health facility or hospital will inform them of their rights within 24 hours. Additionally, the bill provides a standard notification of detention form for peace officers to use when admitting persons in mental crisis to a mental health facility or hospital. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 2392 by Menendez. Relating to the mental health program for veterans. Directs the Department of State Health Services to implement a veterans’ mental health program that would include jail diversion services and veteran courts. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 3793 by Coleman. Relating to powers, duties, and services of entities serving counties and county residents. Directs the Department of State Health Services to plan for the allocation and funding of an appropriate number of state mental hospital beds and outpatient treatment beds. Establishes a planning advisory committee to review the state’s resources and the efficient provision of mental health services. In addition, the bill expands the list of mental health disorders eligible for assessment and treatment by local mental health authorities. The expansion of treatment for disorders such as post traumatic stress, obsessive compulsive, attention deficit, eating and other disorders will be prioritized only after bipolar, schizophrenia and depression are treated and depending on availability of funds. Local mental health authorities are required to include jail diversion strategies in their management plans. Effective 9/1/2013, except Section 2 takes effect 1/1/2014.

SB 34 by Zaffirini. Relating to the administration of psychoactive medications to persons receiving services in certain facilities. Permits a physician who is treating a client to file an application in a probate

court or a court with probate jurisdiction on behalf of the state for an order to authorize the administration of a psychoactive medication regardless of the client’s refusal if: the doctor believes the patient lacks the capacity to make a medication related decision; if the doctor determines the medication is the proper course of treatment; and, if the client has been committed to a residential facility under Chapter 593 of the Health and Safety Code. Additionally, the bill authorizes a court to issue an order authorizing the administration of psychoactive medication to a client who is in custody awaiting trial in a criminal proceeding and was committed to a residential care facility in the six months preceding a hearing, has remained confined in a correctional facility for a period exceeding 72 hours while awaiting transfer for competency restoration treatment, and presents a danger to self or others as a result of a mental disorder or mental defect. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 58 by Nelson. Relating to delivery of and reporting on mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and certain other services. Amends current law relating to the integration of behavioral health and physical health services into the Medicaid managed care program. Requires the Department of State Health Services (DSHS), to the extent funds are appropriated, to make grants to entities, including local governments, nonprofit community organizations and faith-based community organizations. DSHS is also required to establish or expand community collaborative efforts that bring the public and private sectors together to provide services to persons experiencing homelessness and mental illness. The bill also establishes a substance abuse and mental health public reporting system which will allow the public and the legislature to evaluate the outcomes of services. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 646 by Deuell. Relating to court-ordered outpatient mental health services. Allows a judge to notify a mental health provider that a patient may be ordered for outpatient treatment services and directs the provider to develop a treatment plan and be accountable to the court and the patient for the plan. Directs the Department of State Health Services, not later than December 1, 2016, to submit a report to the legislature about persons receiving court ordered mental health treatment and the effectiveness of those services. Effective 9/1/2013.







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SB 718 by West. Relating to voluntary and involuntary mental health services. Allows a person between the ages of 16-18 to request outpatient mental health services for themselves; current law allows a person 16 or older, or 16 and younger who is or has been married, to request inpatient admissions but is silent on the request of a person under the age of 18 to request outpatient services. The bill also provides that an inpatient facility may admit a person 16-17 years old if consent is received from a parent or guardian; if the person does not consent, the person may be admitted pursuant to court order. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 831 by Taylor. Relating to a list of mental health, substance abuse, and suicide prevention programs that may be selected for implementation by public schools. Directs the Department of State Health Services, the Texas Education Agency, and each regional education service center to include an easily accessible list on their websites for programs available for implementation in public schools. Such programs include: early mental health intervention; mental health promotion and positive youth development; substance abuse prevention; substance abuse intervention; and suicide prevention. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1185 by Huffman. Relating to the creation of a mental health jail diversion pilot program. Establishes a criminal justice mental health services pilot program in Harris County with cooperation from the Department of State Health Services and the county to include equal funding by each entity in an effort to serve 500-600 people each year. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1475 by Duncan. Relating to a jail-based restoration of competency pilot program. Authorizes the establishment of a pilot program to administer in-jail competency restoration services to inmates declared incompetent to stand trial, instead of transporting them to a state mental hospital for competency treatment. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1889 by Eltife. Relating to the transport of a mental health patient who is not a resident of this state. Requires a reciprocal agreement between the Texas Department of State Health Services and a state or local agency of another state petitioning for the coordination and return to the home state of a person committed to a mental health facility. The bill requires the department to coordinate with personnel

in the geographic location nearest the petitioning state. Effective 9/1/2013.

MOTOR VEHICLES

HB 511 by Murphy. Relating to the registration of token trailers. Creates a non-expiring license plate for a token trailer, which is a trailer more than 6,000 pounds pulled by a truck or cab that has apportioned or combination truck registration, and eliminates the requirements to show the expiration date on the license plate and to carry a paper registration receipt on the trailer. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 1106 by Larson. Relating to the identification and operation of vessels in the waters of this state. Updates the state’s Water Safety Act due to changes in federal regulation. The bill still requires the tax assessor-collector to award certificates of number to boat registration applicants, but removes the provision for the Parks and Wildlife Department to issue those numbers to the tax office. The bill also outlines processes for the issuance of replacement titles and sets restrictions and safety standards for the operation of boats in the coastal waterways. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 2202 by Pickett. Relating to the disposition of fees collected by or on behalf of the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles; authorizing fees. Authorizes a fee set by board rule and collected by the Department of Motor Vehicles, in addition to registration fees, for the issuance of license plates or registration insignia. Also allows the county tax assessor-collector or the assessor-collector’s contractor to retain a portion of the fee as provided by board rule. Additionally, the bill repeals the provision of the Transportation Code that requires a county tax-assessor collector to remit 3 percent of optional county road and bridge collections to the Department of Motor Vehicles to defray the costs of administering the program. Effective 9/1/2013, except for certain sections.

HB 2305 by Rodriguez, Eddie. Relating to motor vehicle inspections; creating an offense; changing the collection method for certain fees. Requires the Department of Public Safety and the Department of Motor Vehicles to replace the current Texas dual inspection/registration sticker system with a single registration sticker, among other provisions. Effective 3/1/2015, except for certain sections.

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SB 718 by West. Relating to voluntary and involuntary mental health services. Allows a person between the ages of 16-18 to request outpatient mental health services for themselves; current law allows a person 16 or older, or 16 and younger who is or has been married, to request inpatient admissions but is silent on the request of a person under the age of 18 to request outpatient services. The bill also provides that an inpatient facility may admit a person 16-17 years old if consent is received from a parent or guardian; if the person does not consent, the person may be admitted pursuant to court order. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 831 by Taylor. Relating to a list of mental health, substance abuse, and suicide prevention programs that may be selected for implementation by public schools. Directs the Department of State Health Services, the Texas Education Agency, and each regional education service center to include an easily accessible list on their websites for programs available for implementation in public schools. Such programs include: early mental health intervention; mental health promotion and positive youth development; substance abuse prevention; substance abuse intervention; and suicide prevention. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1185 by Huffman. Relating to the creation of a mental health jail diversion pilot program. Establishes a criminal justice mental health services pilot program in Harris County with cooperation from the Department of State Health Services and the county to include equal funding by each entity in an effort to serve 500-600 people each year. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1475 by Duncan. Relating to a jail-based restoration of competency pilot program. Authorizes the establishment of a pilot program to administer in-jail competency restoration services to inmates declared incompetent to stand trial, instead of transporting them to a state mental hospital for competency treatment. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1889 by Eltife. Relating to the transport of a mental health patient who is not a resident of this state. Requires a reciprocal agreement between the Texas Department of State Health Services and a state or local agency of another state petitioning for the coordination and return to the home state of a person committed to a mental health facility. The bill requires the department to coordinate with personnel

in the geographic location nearest the petitioning state. Effective 9/1/2013.

MOTOR VEHICLES

HB 511 by Murphy. Relating to the registration of token trailers. Creates a non-expiring license plate for a token trailer, which is a trailer more than 6,000 pounds pulled by a truck or cab that has apportioned or combination truck registration, and eliminates the requirements to show the expiration date on the license plate and to carry a paper registration receipt on the trailer. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 1106 by Larson. Relating to the identification and operation of vessels in the waters of this state. Updates the state’s Water Safety Act due to changes in federal regulation. The bill still requires the tax assessor-collector to award certificates of number to boat registration applicants, but removes the provision for the Parks and Wildlife Department to issue those numbers to the tax office. The bill also outlines processes for the issuance of replacement titles and sets restrictions and safety standards for the operation of boats in the coastal waterways. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 2202 by Pickett. Relating to the disposition of fees collected by or on behalf of the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles; authorizing fees. Authorizes a fee set by board rule and collected by the Department of Motor Vehicles, in addition to registration fees, for the issuance of license plates or registration insignia. Also allows the county tax assessor-collector or the assessor-collector’s contractor to retain a portion of the fee as provided by board rule. Additionally, the bill repeals the provision of the Transportation Code that requires a county tax-assessor collector to remit 3 percent of optional county road and bridge collections to the Department of Motor Vehicles to defray the costs of administering the program. Effective 9/1/2013, except for certain sections.

HB 2305 by Rodriguez, Eddie. Relating to motor vehicle inspections; creating an offense; changing the collection method for certain fees. Requires the Department of Public Safety and the Department of Motor Vehicles to replace the current Texas dual inspection/registration sticker system with a single registration sticker, among other provisions. Effective 3/1/2015, except for certain sections.










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HB 2394 by Perry. Relating to a study on the feasibility of requiring title for all trailers, semitrailers, and travel trailers not considered manufactured housing. Directs the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to conduct a study of the feasibility of requiring a title for each trailer, semitrailer or travel trailer that is not manufactured housing. The study shall determine the cost and feasibility of assigning vehicle identification numbers; develop options for obtaining a title; evaluate the process of inspection, verification, and assignment of vehicle identification numbers; develop recommendations for requiring the permanent affixation of vehicle identification numbers; determine the approximate fiscal impact from theft and evaluate options to decrease this theft; and evaluate the level of access individuals in rural areas have to obtain a title. The DMV is required to submit the report to the lieutenant governor, the speaker of the house, and the presiding officer of each legislative standing committee with primary jurisdiction over motor vehicles no later than September 1, 2014. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 2741 by Phillips. Relating to the regulation of motor vehicles by counties and the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV); authorizing a fee; creating an offense. Includes several provisions relating to transportation and motor vehicles. It increases the penalties for certain offenses relating to vehicle size and weight. For an offense involving a vehicle having a single or tandem axle weight that is heavier than the vehicle’s allowable weight, the fine schedule includes a fine of up to $500 for a vehicle less than 2,500 pounds overweight, and a fine of up to $2,500 for a vehicle more than 5,000 pounds overweight. For an offense involving a vehicle having a gross weight that is heavier than the vehicle’s allowable weight, the fine schedule includes a fine of up to $500 for a vehicle that is less than 2,500 pounds overweight and a fine of up to $10,000 for a vehicle that is more than 40,000 pounds overweight. The bill also establishes a fine range for the operation of a vehicle without the necessary permit, as well as a fine range for the operation of a vehicle at a weight in excess of 84,000 pounds with a load that can reasonably be dismantled. Additionally, the bill authorizes ready-mix concrete trucks with three axles to obtain a permit from the Department of Motor Vehicles allowing them to operate on a state, county or municipal road.

It requires an applicant to designate in the permit application the counties in which the applicant intends to operate, and sets an annual permit fee of $1,000; 50 percent of the permit fee must be deposited in the state highway fund, and the other 50 percent must be divided among and distributed to the counties designated in permit applications.

It also changes many provisions for trucks hauling timber or timber products, including increasing the load carried on any tandem axle of the vehicle to 44,000 pounds with a proper permit. To qualify for a permit, a person must pay a permit fee of $1,500, designate the counties in which the vehicle will operate, and satisfy a specified security requirement. It requires a financially responsible party, which is defined to include the vehicle owner, operator, or a person leasing the vehicle, to execute a notification document and agree to reimburse the county or state for damage to a road sustained as a consequence of the transportation authorized by the permit; the document must include the name and address of the financially responsible party, the location(s) where the financially responsible party wishes to operate and a designation of the specific route of travel, including the name or number of each road. The document must also include a calendar or schedule that includes the days and hours of operation, a list of each vehicle by license plate number, and a description by which financial responsibility is established for each vehicle. It requires the financially responsible party to electronically file the document at least two business days prior to operation and requires that the document be immediately sent to each county where the vehicle will operate. It also authorizes a county to conduct an inspection of a designated road; if an inspection is conducted, the county must document the condition of the road and share the inspection documentation with the financially responsible party.

Additionally, the bill requires a tax assessor-collector that transfers money to the Department of Motor Vehicles to transfer the money electronically, and limits the late fee imposed on a title transfer application to $250. It authorizes the Department of Motor Vehicles to issue a temporary special permit during a federally declared disaster to an overweight or oversize vehicle that will be used only to deliver relief supplies. It also authorizes a tax assessor-collector, with approval of the commissioners court,

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HB 2394 by Perry. Relating to a study on the feasibility of requiring title for all trailers, semitrailers, and travel trailers not considered manufactured housing. Directs the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to conduct a study of the feasibility of requiring a title for each trailer, semitrailer or travel trailer that is not manufactured housing. The study shall determine the cost and feasibility of assigning vehicle identification numbers; develop options for obtaining a title; evaluate the process of inspection, verification, and assignment of vehicle identification numbers; develop recommendations for requiring the permanent affixation of vehicle identification numbers; determine the approximate fiscal impact from theft and evaluate options to decrease this theft; and evaluate the level of access individuals in rural areas have to obtain a title. The DMV is required to submit the report to the lieutenant governor, the speaker of the house, and the presiding officer of each legislative standing committee with primary jurisdiction over motor vehicles no later than September 1, 2014. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 2741 by Phillips. Relating to the regulation of motor vehicles by counties and the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV); authorizing a fee; creating an offense. Includes several provisions relating to transportation and motor vehicles. It increases the penalties for certain offenses relating to vehicle size and weight. For an offense involving a vehicle having a single or tandem axle weight that is heavier than the vehicle’s allowable weight, the fine schedule includes a fine of up to $500 for a vehicle less than 2,500 pounds overweight, and a fine of up to $2,500 for a vehicle more than 5,000 pounds overweight. For an offense involving a vehicle having a gross weight that is heavier than the vehicle’s allowable weight, the fine schedule includes a fine of up to $500 for a vehicle that is less than 2,500 pounds overweight and a fine of up to $10,000 for a vehicle that is more than 40,000 pounds overweight. The bill also establishes a fine range for the operation of a vehicle without the necessary permit, as well as a fine range for the operation of a vehicle at a weight in excess of 84,000 pounds with a load that can reasonably be dismantled. Additionally, the bill authorizes ready-mix concrete trucks with three axles to obtain a permit from the Department of Motor Vehicles allowing them to operate on a state, county or municipal road.

It requires an applicant to designate in the permit application the counties in which the applicant intends to operate, and sets an annual permit fee of $1,000; 50 percent of the permit fee must be deposited in the state highway fund, and the other 50 percent must be divided among and distributed to the counties designated in permit applications.

It also changes many provisions for trucks hauling timber or timber products, including increasing the load carried on any tandem axle of the vehicle to 44,000 pounds with a proper permit. To qualify for a permit, a person must pay a permit fee of $1,500, designate the counties in which the vehicle will operate, and satisfy a specified security requirement. It requires a financially responsible party, which is defined to include the vehicle owner, operator, or a person leasing the vehicle, to execute a notification document and agree to reimburse the county or state for damage to a road sustained as a consequence of the transportation authorized by the permit; the document must include the name and address of the financially responsible party, the location(s) where the financially responsible party wishes to operate and a designation of the specific route of travel, including the name or number of each road. The document must also include a calendar or schedule that includes the days and hours of operation, a list of each vehicle by license plate number, and a description by which financial responsibility is established for each vehicle. It requires the financially responsible party to electronically file the document at least two business days prior to operation and requires that the document be immediately sent to each county where the vehicle will operate. It also authorizes a county to conduct an inspection of a designated road; if an inspection is conducted, the county must document the condition of the road and share the inspection documentation with the financially responsible party.

Additionally, the bill requires a tax assessor-collector that transfers money to the Department of Motor Vehicles to transfer the money electronically, and limits the late fee imposed on a title transfer application to $250. It authorizes the Department of Motor Vehicles to issue a temporary special permit during a federally declared disaster to an overweight or oversize vehicle that will be used only to deliver relief supplies. It also authorizes a tax assessor-collector, with approval of the commissioners court,



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to enter into an agreement with one or more counties to perform mail-in or online registration or titlingduties, and authorizes a tax assessor-collector, with the approval of the commissioners court, to deputize an individual or business entity to perform titling andregistration services in accordance with certain rules adopted by the board of the Department of MotorVehicles, among other provisions. Effective 9/1/2013, except for certain sections.

OFFENSES

HB 124 by Anderson. Relating to the addition of Salvia divinorum and its derivatives and extracts to Penalty Group 3 of the Texas Controlled Substances Act. Adds Salvia divinorum, a plant hallucinogen, andits derivatives and extracts to Penalty Group 3 of theTexas Controlled Substances Act, making certain possession, as well as the manufacturing and delivery of the substance, a violation of criminal law. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 347 by Pitts. Relating to prohibiting using awireless communication device while operating a motor vehicle on school property. Broadens theprohibition of using a wireless communication device to include while operating a motor vehicle on theproperty of certain public schools for which a local authority has designated a school crossing zone,during the time a reduced speed limit is in effect forthe school crossing zone, except in certain specifiedcircumstances. The prohibition does not apply to an operator of an authorized emergency vehicle usinga wireless communication device while acting in an official capacity. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 555 by Callegari. Relating to certain criminal offenses for violations of the law regulating metal recycling entities. Enhances the penalty for violations of certain laws relating to metal recycling entities, including failing to register, operating a metal recycling entity without registering with the state,failing to report purchases, and purchasing beyondspecified hours, to a Class A misdemeanor. Creates a general criminal penalty consisting of a Class C misdemeanor for certain violations, includinga violation of a standard imposed by a county,municipality, or political subdivision under Section 1956.003 of the Occupations Code (relating to the

regulation of mental recycling entities); however, if a violation also constitutes an offense under another specified section in the law, the person may only be prosecuted under the other section. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 705 by Howard. Relating to the definition ofemergency services personnel for purposes ofthe enhanced penalty prescribed for an assaultcommitted against a person providing services in that capacity. Adds “emergency room personnel” to the definition of “emergency services personnel” for the purposes of enhancing the penalty for an assaultcommitted against such personnel. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 1097 by Sheets. Relating to the amount of a fine forcertain traffic offenses committed in a construction or maintenance work zone. Allows certain minimum and maximum fines prescribed for certain trafficoffenses committed in a construction or maintenance work zone when workers are present only if theconstruction or maintenance work zone is marked by a sign indicating the applicable maximum lawful speed. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 2649 by Herrero. Relating to the punishment forviolating certain rules or permit terms under a permitto trap, transport, and transplant certain animals. Establishes a Class C Parks and Wildlife Codemisdemeanor if a person violates a rule relating to a reporting requirement for certain permits issued bythe Department of Parks and Wildlife or a term ofcertain permits issued by the Department that relates to a reporting requirement. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 299 by Estes. Relating to the intentional display of a handgun by a person licensed to carry a concealedhandgun. Amends current law that makes the failureof a concealed handgun license holder to conceal a handgun an offense such that an offense is only committed if a concealed handgun license holderintentionally displays a handgun in plain view ofanother person in a public place. Clarifies that it is a defense to prosecution that the handgun was displayed under circumstances in which the actorwould have been justified in the use of either force ordeadly force. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 821 by Schwertner. Relating to the prosecution ofcertain criminal offenses involving theft or involvingfraud or other deceptive practices. Expands theconduct constituting the offenses of theft by checkand issuance of a bad check to include conduct

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to enter into an agreement with one or more counties to perform mail-in or online registration or titling duties, and authorizes a tax assessor-collector, with the approval of the commissioners court, to deputize an individual or business entity to perform titling and registration services in accordance with certain rules adopted by the board of the Department of Motor Vehicles, among other provisions. Effective 9/1/2013, except for certain sections.

OFFENSES

HB 124 by Anderson. Relating to the addition of Salvia divinorum and its derivatives and extracts to Penalty Group 3 of the Texas Controlled Substances Act. Adds Salvia divinorum, a plant hallucinogen, and its derivatives and extracts to Penalty Group 3 of the Texas Controlled Substances Act, making certain possession, as well as the manufacturing and delivery of the substance, a violation of criminal law. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 347 by Pitts. Relating to prohibiting using a wireless communication device while operating a motor vehicle on school property. Broadens the prohibition of using a wireless communication device to include while operating a motor vehicle on the property of certain public schools for which a local authority has designated a school crossing zone, during the time a reduced speed limit is in effect for the school crossing zone, except in certain specified circumstances. The prohibition does not apply to an operator of an authorized emergency vehicle using a wireless communication device while acting in an official capacity. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 555 by Callegari. Relating to certain criminal offenses for violations of the law regulating metal recycling entities. Enhances the penalty for violations of certain laws relating to metal recycling entities, including failing to register, operating a metal recycling entity without registering with the state, failing to report purchases, and purchasing beyond specified hours, to a Class A misdemeanor. Creates a general criminal penalty consisting of a Class C misdemeanor for certain violations, including a violation of a standard imposed by a county, municipality, or political subdivision under Section 1956.003 of the Occupations Code (relating to the

regulation of metal recycling entities); however, if a violation also constitutes an offense under another specified section in the law, the person may only be prosecuted under the other section. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 705 by Howard. Relating to the definition of emergency services personnel for purposes of the enhanced penalty prescribed for an assault committed against a person providing services in that capacity. Adds “emergency room personnel” to the definition of “emergency services personnel” for the purposes of enhancing the penalty for an assault committed against such personnel. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 1097 by Sheets. Relating to the amount of a fine for certain traffic offenses committed in a construction or maintenance work zone. Allows certain minimum and maximum fines prescribed for certain traffic offenses committed in a construction or maintenance work zone when workers are present only if the construction or maintenance work zone is marked by a sign indicating the applicable maximum lawful speed. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 2649 by Herrero. Relating to the punishment for violating certain rules or permit terms under a permit to trap, transport, and transplant certain animals. Establishes a Class C Parks and Wildlife Code misdemeanor if a person violates a rule relating to a reporting requirement for certain permits issued by the Department of Parks and Wildlife or a term of certain permits issued by the Department that relates to a reporting requirement. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 299 by Estes. Relating to the intentional display of a handgun by a person licensed to carry a concealed handgun. Amends current law that makes the failure of a concealed handgun license holder to conceal a handgun an offense such that an offense is only committed if a concealed handgun license holder intentionally displays a handgun in plain view of another person in a public place. Clarifies that it is a defense to prosecution that the handgun was displayed under circumstances in which the actor would have been justified in the use of either force or deadly force. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 821 by Schwertner. Relating to the prosecution of certain criminal offenses involving theft or involving fraud or other deceptive practices. Expands the conduct constituting the offenses of theft by check and issuance of a bad check to include conduct









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involving insufficiently funded accounts for electronic funds transfer. Effective 9/1/2013.

OPEN GOVERNMENT

HB 584 by Rodriguez, Eddie. Relating to the posting of a notice of foreclosure sale on a county’s Internet website. Requires the notice of foreclosure sale filed with the county clerk to be posted on the county website where it is accessible with no cost or registration if the county maintains a website. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 1632 by Fletcher. Relating to the confidentiality of certain identifying information of peace officers, county jailers, security officers, employees of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice or a prosecutor’s office, or judges and their spouses. Adds date of birth to the list of confidential identifying information for certain criminal justice employees, including peace officers, county jailers and prosecutors. Additionally, the bill allows a peace officer or jailer, among others, to make his or her residence address confidential on a voter registration application. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 2414 by Button. Relating to open meetings of governmental bodies held by videoconference call and to written electronic communications between members of a governmental body. Allows a commissioners court to hold a meeting by videoconference call and authorizes a member of the court to participate in that meeting remotely if the video and audio feed meet certain criteria. During a meeting by videoconference call, the court must provide certain suitable physical space with specified equipment that allows the public to participate in the meeting and the member presiding over the meeting must be present at that physical location. The legislation also allows a governmental body to operate an online message board subject to certain requirements. A governmental body may communicate information regarding public business on this forum without the communication constituting a public meeting under certain circumstances; however, the governmental body may not vote or take any action that is required by Chapter 551 of the Government Code to be taken at a meeting. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 457 by Rodriguez. Relating to the confidentiality of certain autopsy records. Allows a governing body to maintain the confidentiality of certain autopsy records by withholding a photograph or x-ray without requesting a decision from the attorney general in certain circumstances. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 458 by Rodriguez. Relating to certain motor vehicle records excepted from disclosure under the Public Information Act. Authorizes a governmental body to redact a motor vehicle title or registration issued by an agency of Texas or another state or country from any information the governmental body discloses under the state’s public information law without requesting a decision from the attorney general. Effective 5/18/2013.

SB 471 by Ellis. Relating to technological efficiencies in the recording of certain open meetings. Adds the definition of “recording” to mean a tangible medium on which audio or a combination of audio and video is recorded, including a disc, tape, wire, film, electronic storage device or other medium, in the context of laws relating to open meetings. Effective 5/18/2013.

SB 984 by Ellis. Relating to the meeting of a governmental body held by videoconference call. Provides for the use of videoconferencing for public meetings held by a state governmental body or a regional governmental body that extends into three or more counties if the member presiding over the meeting is present at one location of the meeting that is open to the public and other specified requirements are met. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1297 by Watson. Relating to written electronic communications between members of a governmental body. Authorizes a governmental body to operate an online message board subject to certain requirements. A governmental body may communicate information regarding public business on this forum without the communication constituting a public meeting under certain circumstances; however, the governmental body may not vote or take any action that is required by Chapter 551 of the Government Code to be taken at a meeting. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1368 by Davis. Relating to public information pertaining to the official business of governmental bodies and to contracts by certain state governmental

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involving insufficiently funded accounts for electronic funds transfer. Effective 9/1/2013.

OPEN GOVERNMENT

HB 584 by Rodriguez, Eddie. Relating to the posting of a notice of foreclosure sale on a county’s Internet website. Requires the notice of foreclosure sale filed with the county clerk to be posted on the county website where it is accessible with no cost or registration if the county maintains a website. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 1632 by Fletcher. Relating to the confidentiality of certain identifying information of peace officers, county jailers, security officers, employees of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice or a prosecutor’s office, or judges and their spouses. Adds date of birth to the list of confidential identifying information for certain criminal justice employees, including peace officers, county jailers and prosecutors. Additionally, the bill allows a peace officer or jailer, among others, to make his or her residence address confidential on a voter registration application. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 2414 by Button. Relating to open meetings of governmental bodies held by videoconference call and to written electronic communications between members of a governmental body. Allows a commissioners court to hold a meeting by videoconference call and authorizes a member of the court to participate in that meeting remotely if the video and audio feed meet certain criteria. During a meeting by videoconference call, the court must provide certain suitable physical space with specified equipment that allows the public to participate in the meeting and the member presiding over the meeting must be present at that physical location. The legislation also allows a governmental body to operate an online message board subject to certain requirements. A governmental body may communicate information regarding public business on this forum without the communication constituting a public meeting under certain circumstances; however, the governmental body may not vote or take any action that is required by Chapter 551 of the Government Code to be taken at a meeting. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 457 by Rodriguez. Relating to the confidentiality of certain autopsy records. Allows a governing body to maintain the confidentiality of certain autopsy records by withholding a photograph or x-ray without requesting a decision from the attorney general in certain circumstances. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 458 by Rodriguez. Relating to certain motor vehicle records excepted from disclosure under the Public Information Act. Authorizes a governmental body to redact a motor vehicle title or registration issued by an agency of Texas or another state or country from any information the governmental body discloses under the state’s public information law without requesting a decision from the attorney general. Effective 5/18/2013.

SB 471 by Ellis. Relating to technological efficiencies in the recording of certain open meetings. Adds the definition of “recording” to mean a tangible medium on which audio or a combination of audio and video is recorded, including a disc, tape, wire, film, electronic storage device or other medium, in the context of laws relating to open meetings. Effective 5/18/2013.

SB 984 by Ellis. Relating to the meeting of a governmental body held by videoconference call. Provides for the use of videoconferencing for public meetings held by a state governmental body or a regional governmental body that extends into three or more counties if the member presiding over the meeting is present at one location of the meeting that is open to the public and other specified requirements are met. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1297 by Watson. Relating to written electronic communications between members of a governmental body. Authorizes a governmental body to operate an online message board subject to certain requirements. A governmental body may communicate information regarding public business on this forum without the communication constituting a public meeting under certain circumstances; however, the governmental body may not vote or take any action that is required by Chapter 551 of the Government Code to be taken at a meeting. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1368 by Davis. Relating to public information pertaining to the official business of governmental bodies and to contracts by certain state governmental




http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/BillLookup/Text.aspx?LegSess=83R&Bill=sb 457





http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/BillLookup/text.aspx?LegSess=83R&Bill=SB1368

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entities that involve the exchange or creation of public information. Amends the definition of public information under the Public Information Act to include any information (1) for a governmental body and the governmental body spends or contributes public money for the purpose of writing, producing, collecting, assembling or maintaining the information or (2) that is written, produced, collected, or maintained by an individual officer or employee of a governmental body in his or her official capacity and is related to official business, and (3) any electronic communication on any device if it is in connection with the transaction of official business. The bill also adds a definition of “official business” and specifies that general forms in which the media containing public information exist include e-mail, Internet posting, text message, and other electronic communication, among other provisions. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1512 by Ellis. Relating to the confidentiality of certain crime scene photographs and video recordings. Makes certain sensitive crime scene images in the custody of a governmental body confidential and excepted from the requirements of the Public Information Act. Prohibits a governmental body from permitting a person to view or copy the image except in certain specified circumstances. The bill authorizes certain specified persons and entities access to the images, including the deceased person’s next of kin, the defendant or defendant’s attorney, a state or federal agency, and a local government entity. Additionally, it sets forth certain procedures a governmental body must follow when it receives a request for a sensitive crime scene image from certain persons. Effective 9/1/2013.

PERSONNEL

HB 13 by Callegari. Relating to the State Pension Review Board and public retirement systems; authorizing a fee. Requires the governing bodies of public retirement systems, including the Texas County and District Retirement System, to post on the board’s Internet website, or on a publicly available website linked to the board’s website, a copy of the most recent edition of certain reports submitted to the board, including certain actuarial studies, financial reports, and reports of investment returns

and assumptions, among other provisions. Effective 5/24/2013.

HB 489 by Menendez. Relating to rights and responsibilities of persons with disabilities, including with respect to the use of service animals that provide assistance to those persons; providing penalties. Prohibits a person from making demands or inquiries relating to the qualifications of a service animal for purposes of admittance to a public facility, which includes a public building maintained by a subdivision of government, except to determine the basic type of assistance provided by the service animal to a person with a disability. However, if a person’s disability is not readily apparent, the bill authorizes a staff member or manager of the facility to inquire about whether the service animal is required because the person has a disability and inquire about what type of work or task the service animal is trained to perform. A violation is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not more than $300 and 30 hours of specified community service, and may subject a person to a cause of action for damages in certain circumstances. Effective 1/1/2014.

SB 251 by West. Relating to an unsworn declaration made by an employee of a state agency or political subdivision in the performance of the employee’s job duties. Authorizes an employee of a state agency or political subdivision who makes an unsworn declaration in the performance of the employee’s job duties to provide employment-related information in the declaration instead of providing certain personal information. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 366 by Taylor. Relating to the authority of political subdivisions to offer certain deferred compensation plans to employees. Authorizes a county to establish a qualified Roth contribution program for its employees, and allows a plan administrator of a 457 plan to develop and implement procedures to administer a program under the plan that allows a qualified vendor to lend money to a participating employee. Effective 5/18/2013.

PROBATE & GUARDIANSHIP

HB 1755 by Patrick. Relating to authorizing the appointment of a public probate administrator; authorizing fees. Authorizes a statutory probate court

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entities that involve the exchange or creation of public information. Amends the definition of public information under the Public Information Act to include any information (1) for a governmental body and the governmental body spends or contributes public money for the purpose of writing, producing, collecting, assembling or maintaining the information or (2) that is written, produced, collected, or maintained by an individual officer or employee of a governmental body in his or her official capacity and is related to official business, and (3) any electronic communication on any device if it is in connection with the transaction of official business. The bill also adds a definition of “official business” and specifies that general forms in which the media containing public information exist include e-mail, Internet posting, text message, and other electronic communication, among other provisions. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1512 by Ellis. Relating to the confidentiality of certain crime scene photographs and video recordings. Makes certain sensitive crime scene images in the custody of a governmental body confidential and excepted from the requirements of the Public Information Act. Prohibits a governmental body from permitting a person to view or copy the image except in certain specified circumstances. The bill authorizes certain specified persons and entities access to the images, including the deceased person’s next of kin, the defendant or defendant’s attorney, a state or federal agency, and a local government entity. Additionally, it sets forth certain procedures a governmental body must follow when it receives a request for a sensitive crime scene image from certain persons. Effective 9/1/2013.

PERSONNEL

HB 13 by Callegari. Relating to the State Pension Review Board and public retirement systems; authorizing a fee. Requires the governing bodies of public retirement systems, including the Texas County and District Retirement System, to post on the board’s Internet website, or on a publicly available website linked to the board’s website, a copy of the most recent edition of certain reports submitted to the board, including certain actuarial studies, financial reports, and reports of investment returns

and assumptions, among other provisions. Effective 5/24/2013.

HB 489 by Menendez. Relating to rights and responsibilities of persons with disabilities, including with respect to the use of service animals that provide assistance to those persons; providing penalties. Prohibits a person from making demands or inquiries relating to the qualifications of a service animal for purposes of admittance to a public facility, which includes a public building maintained by a subdivision of government, except to determine the basic type of assistance provided by the service animal to a person with a disability. However, if a person’s disability is not readily apparent, the bill authorizes a staff member or manager of the facility to inquire about whether the service animal is required because the person has a disability and inquire about what type of work or task the service animal is trained to perform. A violation is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not more than $300 and 30 hours of specified community service, and may subject a person to a cause of action for damages in certain circumstances. Effective 1/1/2014.

SB 251 by West. Relating to an unsworn declaration made by an employee of a state agency or political subdivision in the performance of the employee’s job duties. Authorizes an employee of a state agency or political subdivision who makes an unsworn declaration in the performance of the employee’s job duties to provide employment-related information in the declaration instead of providing certain personal information. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 366 by Taylor. Relating to the authority of political subdivisions to offer certain deferred compensation plans to employees. Authorizes a county to establish a qualified Roth contribution program for its employees, and allows a plan administrator of a 457 plan to develop and implement procedures to administer a program under the plan that allows a qualified vendor to lend money to a participating employee. Effective 5/18/2013.

PROBATE & GUARDIANSHIP

HB 1755 by Patrick. Relating to authorizing the appointment of a public probate administrator; authorizing fees. Authorizes a statutory probate court


http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/BillLookup/text.aspx?LegSess=83R&Bill=hb13

http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/BillLookup/text.aspx?LegSess=83R&Bill=HB489




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judge, with the concurrence of the commissioners court, to appoint a public probate administrator and sets forth the duties and responsibilities of the administrator. Effective 1/1/2014.

HB 2912 by Thompson, Senfronia. Relating to decedents’ estates. Includes changes relating to heirship, new requirements for self-proving affidavits, changes relating to the power of sale for personal property, new guidelines for removing an independent executor, and adverse possession requirements for co-tenant heirs. Effective 1/1/2014.

PROPERTY TAX

HB 242 by Otto. Relating to the requirement that certain ad valorem tax-related notices be delivered to a property owner by certified mail. Requires that certain notices from an appraisal district to a property owner be sent by certified mail. The Tax Code sections for which certified mail is required are: 1) Section 23.46(c) — notice that land has been diverted to a non-agricultural use; 2) Section 23.54(e) — notice that a new application for special agricultural use appraisal is required; 3) Section 23.541(c) — notice of penalty for late application for agricultural use appraisal; 4) Section 23.55(e) — notice of determination of change of land use from qualifying open-space use; and 5) Section 23.76(e) — notice of determination of change of land use from qualifying timber use. Effective 1/1/2014.

HB 315 by Otto. Relating to the applicability of the law governing the ad valorem taxation of a dealer’s motor vehicle inventory. Amends Section 23.121 of the Tax Code, regarding property taxation, appraisal methods and procedures, and dealer’s motor vehicle inventory, to alter the definition of “dealer” to exclude certain motor vehicle dealers from special inventory provisions. Effective 1/1/2014.

HB 709 by Isaac. Relating to ad valorem tax payments and refunds. Allows a taxing unit to apply a property owner’s tax refund to a delinquent tax year, other than the current tax year, for the property that receives a tax refund in certain circumstances. Current law allows the taxing unit to apply an owner’s tax refund only to another delinquent property. Also allows a person who receives a disabled veteran’s exemption to pay the homestead taxes using an

installment payment plan. Effective 1/1/2014.

HB 1597 by Gonzalez, Naomi. Relating to installment payments of ad valorem taxes. Amends Section 33.02 of the Tax Code, regarding property taxation and delinquency, to require a collector for a taxing unit, on request by a person delinquent in the payment of the tax on a residence homestead, to enter into an agreement with the person for payment of the tax, penalties, and interest in installments if the person has not entered into an installment agreement with the collector for the taxing unit in the preceding 24 months. The installment plan must provide for equal monthly installments over at least a 12-month period. A penalty does not accrue on the unpaid balance during the agreement period if the property is a residence homestead. The bill also requires an assessor-collector to provide notice of this right in the notice of delinquency. Additionally, the bill amends the Tax code to provide that any individual who is qualified for a disabled veteran’s exemption may pay residence homestead taxes in installments. An individual eligible to pay residence homestead taxes in four equal installments may do so if the first installment is paid before the delinquency date and is accompanied by the required notice. Notwithstanding the previously mentioned installment deadline, an eligible individual is permitted to pay in installments if the first installment is paid and the required notice is provided before March 1. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 1913 by Bohac. Relating to the waiver of penalties and interest on certain delinquent ad valorem taxes. Permits a taxing unit to waive penalties and interest on a delinquent tax related to any date preceding the date on which the property owner acquired the property if: (1) the tax is paid not later than the 181st day after the date the property owner receives proper notice of the delinquent tax; and (2) the delinquency is the result of taxes imposed on omitted property, erroneously exempted property, or property added to the appraisal roll under a different account number or parcel when the property was owned by a prior owner.

The bill also permits a taxing unit to waive penalties and interest on a delinquent tax if the taxpayer submits evidence showing that the taxpayer would have delivered payment for the tax before the delinquency date if not for an act or omission of the U.S. Postal Service or a private carrier. Additionally,

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judge, with the concurrence of the commissioners court, to appoint a public probate administrator and sets forth the duties and responsibilities of the administrator. Effective 1/1/2014.

HB 2912 by Thompson, Senfronia. Relating to decedents’ estates. Includes changes relating to heirship, new requirements for self-proving affidavits, changes relating to the power of sale for personal property, new guidelines for removing an independent executor, and adverse possession requirements for co-tenant heirs. Effective 1/1/2014.

PROPERTY TAX

HB 242 by Otto. Relating to the requirement that certain ad valorem tax-related notices be delivered to a property owner by certified mail. Requires that certain notices from an appraisal district to a property owner be sent by certified mail. The Tax Code sections for which certified mail is required are: 1) Section 23.46(c) — notice that land has been diverted to a non-agricultural use; 2) Section 23.54(e) — notice that a new application for special agricultural use appraisal is required; 3) Section 23.541(c) — notice of penalty for late application for agricultural use appraisal; 4) Section 23.55(e) — notice of determination of change of land use from qualifying open-space use; and 5) Section 23.76(e) — notice of determination of change of land use from qualifying timber use. Effective 1/1/2014.

HB 315 by Otto. Relating to the applicability of the law governing the ad valorem taxation of a dealer’s motor vehicle inventory. Amends Section 23.121 of the Tax Code, regarding property taxation, appraisal methods and procedures, and dealer’s motor vehicle inventory, to alter the definition of “dealer” to exclude certain motor vehicle dealers from special inventory provisions. Effective 1/1/2014.

HB 709 by Isaac. Relating to ad valorem tax payments and refunds. Allows a taxing unit to apply a property owner’s tax refund to a delinquent tax year, other than the current tax year, for the property that receives a tax refund in certain circumstances. Current law allows the taxing unit to apply an owner’s tax refund only to another delinquent property. Also allows a person who receives a disabled veteran’s exemption to pay the homestead taxes using an

installment payment plan. Effective 1/1/2014.

HB 1597 by Gonzalez, Naomi. Relating to installment payments of ad valorem taxes. Amends Section 33.02 of the Tax Code, regarding property taxation and delinquency, to require a collector for a taxing unit, on request by a person delinquent in the payment of the tax on a residence homestead, to enter into an agreement with the person for payment of the tax, penalties, and interest in installments if the person has not entered into an installment agreement with the collector for the taxing unit in the preceding 24 months. The installment plan must provide for equal monthly installments over at least a 12-month period. A penalty does not accrue on the unpaid balance during the agreement period if the property is a residence homestead. The bill also requires an assessor-collector to provide notice of this right in the notice of delinquency. Additionally, the bill amends the Tax code to provide that any individual who is qualified for a disabled veteran’s exemption may pay residence homestead taxes in installments. An individual eligible to pay residence homestead taxes in four equal installments may do so if the first installment is paid before the delinquency date and is accompanied by the required notice. Notwithstanding the previously mentioned installment deadline, an eligible individual is permitted to pay in installments if the first installment is paid and the required notice is provided before March 1. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 1913 by Bohac. Relating to the waiver of penalties and interest on certain delinquent ad valorem taxes. Permits a taxing unit to waive penalties and interest on a delinquent tax related to any date preceding the date on which the property owner acquired the property if: (1) the tax is paid not later than the 181st day after the date the property owner receives proper notice of the delinquent tax; and (2) the delinquency is the result of taxes imposed on omitted property, erroneously exempted property, or property added to the appraisal roll under a different account number or parcel when the property was owned by a prior owner.

The bill also permits a taxing unit to waive penalties and interest on a delinquent tax if the taxpayer submits evidence showing that the taxpayer would have delivered payment for the tax before the delinquency date if not for an act or omission of the U.S. Postal Service or a private carrier. Additionally,







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it requires that a request for a waiver of penalties and interest be made before the 181st day after the date the property owner making the request receives proper notice of the delinquent tax, and mandates that a delinquent property tax notice contain specified language warning that a taxing unit may foreclose on the tax lien if the delinquent taxes are not paid. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 3613 by Elkins. Relating to the release of delinquent tax liens on manufactured homes. Requires an assessor-collector, upon request by any person, to file a tax lien release with the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) if the four-year statute of limitations to file suit for collection of personal property taxes has expired. The bill also authorizes TDHCA to request that the assessor-collector confirm that no tax suit has been timely filed on any manufactured home tax lien more than four years in delinquency. The department can make this request electronically and a taxing authority may respond electronically. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 247 by Carona. Relating to the transfer of an ad valorem tax lien; providing an administrative penalty. Requires a Property Tax Lender (PTL) provide notice to potential borrowers that installment plans may be available from their taxing entities, and prohibits false, misleading and deceptive solicitations. Mandates certain truth-in-lending disclosure requirements — a PTL must provide standard disclosure information when it uses certain terms such as “annual percentage rate.” Allows the Finance Commission to adopt rules to enforce said provisions and allows an administrative penalty to be assessed against a PTL that violates this section. Prohibits a PTL from selling, transferring, assigning or releasing rights related to a property tax loan to a person who is not licensed by the Texas Office of Consumer Credit Commissioner. Prohibits a property tax loan from being made to persons 65 years or older who are eligible to claim a 65 or older tax exemption. Additionally, the bill requires a PTL to provide additional fee information on disclosure statements and prohibits a PTL from using non-judicial foreclosure methods. Finally, it prohibits a property owner from waiving or limiting certain requirements imposed on a property tax lender in order to make sure they do not waive rights to which they are

otherwise entitled under the law. Effective 5/29/2013.

SB 382 by Carona. Relating to the disbursement of county funds to a person owing delinquent property taxes. Specifies that the prohibition against disbursing county funds to a person owing delinquent property taxes applies whether the delinquent property taxes are reduced to judgment or not. Effective 6/14/2013

SB 385 by Carona. Relating to authorizing assessments for water and energy improvements in regions designated by municipalities and counties; imposing a fee. Establishes the Property Assessed Clean Energy Act to provide for the establishment of a program by a municipality or county that allows the municipality or county to enter into a written contract with a record owner of real property in a designated region to impose an assessment to repay the owner’s financing of a qualified project on the owner’s property. Defines a qualified project as the installation or modification of a permanent improvement fixed to real property that is intended to decrease water or energy consumption or demand. The bill limits its scope to privately owned commercial or industrial real property or residential real property with five or more dwelling units. The bill includes provisions regarding the designation of a region and the procedure for the establishment of a program and authorizes the local government to impose certain fees to offset the costs of administering the program. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 1224 by Taylor. Relating to the use by a property owner of a common or contract carrier to send a payment, report, application, statement, or other document or paper to a taxing unit or taxing official. Establishes that a property owner’s payment or filing or delivery of a report, application, statement, or other document or paper by a specified due date is considered timely so long as certain conditions are met. The payment, document, or paper is timely if it is properly addressed with postage or handling charges prepaid and, as an alternative to being sent by first-class mail with a post office cancellation mark or other satisfactory proof of timely deposit, is sent by common or contract carrier. In addition, it must either bear a receipt mark indicating a date earlier than or on the specified due date and within the specified period or the property owner must furnish satisfactory proof that it was deposited with the

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it requires that a request for a waiver of penalties and interest be made before the 181st day after the date the property owner making the request receives proper notice of the delinquent tax, and mandates that a delinquent property tax notice contain specified language warning that a taxing unit may foreclose on the tax lien if the delinquent taxes are not paid. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 3613 by Elkins. Relating to the release of delinquent tax liens on manufactured homes. Requires an assessor-collector, upon request by any person, to file a tax lien release with the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) if the four-year statute of limitations to file suit for collection of personal property taxes has expired. The bill also authorizes TDHCA to request that the assessor-collector confirm that no tax suit has been timely filed on any manufactured home tax lien more than four years in delinquency. The department can make this request electronically and a taxing authority may respond electronically. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 247 by Carona. Relating to the transfer of an ad valorem tax lien; providing an administrative penalty. Requires a Property Tax Lender (PTL) provide notice to potential borrowers that installment plans may be available from their taxing entities, and prohibits false, misleading and deceptive solicitations. Mandates certain truth-in-lending disclosure requirements — a PTL must provide standard disclosure information when it uses certain terms such as “annual percentage rate.” Allows the Finance Commission to adopt rules to enforce said provisions and allows an administrative penalty to be assessed against a PTL that violates this section. Prohibits a PTL from selling, transferring, assigning or releasing rights related to a property tax loan to a person who is not licensed by the Texas Office of Consumer Credit Commissioner. Prohibits a property tax loan from being made to persons 65 years or older who are eligible to claim a 65 or older tax exemption. Additionally, the bill requires a PTL to provide additional fee information on disclosure statements and prohibits a PTL from using non-judicial foreclosure methods. Finally, it prohibits a property owner from waiving or limiting certain requirements imposed on a property tax lender in order to make sure they do not waive rights to which they are

otherwise entitled under the law. Effective 5/29/2013.

SB 382 by Carona. Relating to the disbursement of county funds to a person owing delinquent property taxes. Specifies that the prohibition against disbursing county funds to a person owing delinquent property taxes applies whether the delinquent property taxes are reduced to judgment or not. Effective 6/14/2013

SB 385 by Carona. Relating to authorizing assessments for water and energy improvements in regions designated by municipalities and counties; imposing a fee. Establishes the Property Assessed Clean Energy Act to provide for the establishment of a program by a municipality or county that allows the municipality or county to enter into a written contract with a record owner of real property in a designated region to impose an assessment to repay the owner’s financing of a qualified project on the owner’s property. Defines a qualified project as the installation or modification of a permanent improvement fixed to real property that is intended to decrease water or energy consumption or demand. The bill limits its scope to privately owned commercial or industrial real property or residential real property with five or more dwelling units. The bill includes provisions regarding the designation of a region and the procedure for the establishment of a program and authorizes the local government to impose certain fees to offset the costs of administering the program. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 1224 by Taylor. Relating to the use by a property owner of a common or contract carrier to send a payment, report, application, statement, or other document or paper to a taxing unit or taxing official. Establishes that a property owner’s payment or filing or delivery of a report, application, statement, or other document or paper by a specified due date is considered timely so long as certain conditions are met. The payment, document, or paper is timely if it is properly addressed with postage or handling charges prepaid and, as an alternative to being sent by first-class mail with a post office cancellation mark or other satisfactory proof of timely deposit, is sent by common or contract carrier. In addition, it must either bear a receipt mark indicating a date earlier than or on the specified due date and within the specified period or the property owner must furnish satisfactory proof that it was deposited with the






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common or contract carrier before the specified due date. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 1256 by Patrick. Relating to the requirements for a sale to be considered a comparable sale for ad valorem tax purposes. Establishes that for purposes of using the market data comparison method of appraisal for a residential property in a county with a population of more than 150,000, a sale is not considered to be a comparable sale unless the sale occurred within 36 months of the date as of which the property’s market value is to be determined, regardless of the number of comparable properties sold during that period. Effective 1/1/2014.

SB 1510 by Hinojosa. Relating to the public notice required to be provided by certain taxing units before adopting an ad valorem tax rate. Authorizes a simplified tax notice as outlined under new Section 140.010 of the Local Government Code. Reduces the tax notice to three parts: the tax rate of the preceding year and the rate being proposed; a method for taxpayers to determine their own taxes; and information on getting assistance if a taxpayer needs help in understanding the notice. Effective 1/1/2014.

PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS

HB 97 by Perry. Relating to the exemption from ad valorem taxation of part of the appraised value of the residence homestead of a partially disabled veteran or the surviving spouse of a partially disabled veteran if the residence homestead was donated to the disabled veteran by a charitable organization. Provides a partial property tax exemption to veterans who are partially disabled and have had a home donated to them by a charitable organization. A veteran’s surviving spouse would be allowed to continue to claim the exemption under certain circumstances and may transfer the actual dollar amount of the exemption to a new property. Effective 1/1/2014, contingent upon voter approval of HJR 24.

HJR 24 by Perry. Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to provide for an exemption from ad valorem taxation of part of the market value of the residence homestead of a partially disabled veteran or the surviving spouse of a partially disabled veteran if the residence homestead

was donated to the disabled veteran by a charitable organization. Authorizes the legislature to provide a residence homestead property tax exemption equal to a partially disabled veteran’s disability rating if the homestead was donated to the disabled veteran by a charitable organization at no cost to the disabled veteran. The legislature would be authorized to impose additional eligibility requirements for the exemption. The legislature by statute would be able to extend a proportionate exemption to the surviving spouse of a disabled veteran who died after qualifying for the exemption if the surviving spouse has not remarried, the property was the homestead of the surviving spouse when the disabled veteran died and remains the residence homestead of the surviving spouse. The exemption to a qualified surviving spouse on a subsequent homestead would be the same portion of exempt market value as on the original qualified homestead. Enabling legislation is HB 97. Election Date 11/5/2013.

HB 294 by Rodriguez, Eddie. Relating to the exemption from ad valorem taxation of certain property owned by a charitable organization and used in providing housing and related services to certain homeless individuals. Amends the Tax Code to apply the tax exemption for certain property owned by a charitable organization that is used to provide housing and related services to the homeless to all such property that is owned by the charitable organization that is located on or consists of a single campus in a municipality with a population of more than 750,000 and less than 850,000 or within such municipality’s extraterritorial jurisdiction. Revises the eligibility criteria for an organization to claim such an exemption by requiring the organization to have been in existence for a minimum of 12 years. Previous law authorized a property tax exemption only for improvements that are owned by a charitable organization in existence for at least 10 years and used by the organization to provide housing and related services to certain homeless individuals in partnership with a municipality with a population of more than 750,000 and less than 850,000 at a municipally owned campus. Effective 1/1/2014.

HB 561 by Workman. Relating to an exemption for land owned by a school from the additional tax imposed on the change of use of land appraised for ad valorem tax purposes as qualified open-space

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common or contract carrier before the specified due date. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 1256 by Patrick. Relating to the requirements for a sale to be considered a comparable sale for ad valorem tax purposes. Establishes that for purposes of using the market data comparison method of appraisal for a residential property in a county with a population of more than 150,000, a sale is not considered to be a comparable sale unless the sale occurred within 36 months of the date as of which the property’s market value is to be determined, regardless of the number of comparable properties sold during that period. Effective 1/1/2014.

SB 1510 by Hinojosa. Relating to the public notice required to be provided by certain taxing units before adopting an ad valorem tax rate. Authorizes a simplified tax notice as outlined under new Section 140.010 of the Local Government Code. Reduces the tax notice to three parts: the tax rate of the preceding year and the rate being proposed; a method for taxpayers to determine their own taxes; and information on getting assistance if a taxpayer needs help in understanding the notice. Effective 1/1/2014.

PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS

HB 97 by Perry. Relating to the exemption from ad valorem taxation of part of the appraised value of the residence homestead of a partially disabled veteran or the surviving spouse of a partially disabled veteran if the residence homestead was donated to the disabled veteran by a charitable organization. Provides a partial property tax exemption to veterans who are partially disabled and have had a home donated to them by a charitable organization. A veteran’s surviving spouse would be allowed to continue to claim the exemption under certain circumstances and may transfer the actual dollar amount of the exemption to a new property. Effective 1/1/2014, contingent upon voter approval of HJR 24.

HJR 24 by Perry. Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to provide for an exemption from ad valorem taxation of part of the market value of the residence homestead of a partially disabled veteran or the surviving spouse of a partially disabled veteran if the residence homestead

was donated to the disabled veteran by a charitable organization. Authorizes the legislature to provide a residence homestead property tax exemption equal to a partially disabled veteran’s disability rating if the homestead was donated to the disabled veteran by a charitable organization at no cost to the disabled veteran. The legislature would be authorized to impose additional eligibility requirements for the exemption. The legislature by statute would be able to extend a proportionate exemption to the surviving spouse of a disabled veteran who died after qualifying for the exemption if the surviving spouse has not remarried, the property was the homestead of the surviving spouse when the disabled veteran died and remains the residence homestead of the surviving spouse. The exemption to a qualified surviving spouse on a subsequent homestead would be the same portion of exempt market value as on the original qualified homestead. Enabling legislation is HB 97. Election Date 11/5/2013.

HB 294 by Rodriguez, Eddie. Relating to the exemption from ad valorem taxation of certain property owned by a charitable organization and used in providing housing and related services to certain homeless individuals. Amends the Tax Code to apply the tax exemption for certain property owned by a charitable organization that is used to provide housing and related services to the homeless to all such property that is owned by the charitable organization that is located on or consists of a single campus in a municipality with a population of more than 750,000 and less than 850,000 or within such municipality’s extraterritorial jurisdiction. Revises the eligibility criteria for an organization to claim such an exemption by requiring the organization to have been in existence for a minimum of 12 years. Previous law authorized a property tax exemption only for improvements that are owned by a charitable organization in existence for at least 10 years and used by the organization to provide housing and related services to certain homeless individuals in partnership with a municipality with a population of more than 750,000 and less than 850,000 at a municipally owned campus. Effective 1/1/2014.

HB 561 by Workman. Relating to an exemption for land owned by a school from the additional tax imposed on the change of use of land appraised for ad valorem tax purposes as qualified open-space




http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/BillLookup/text.aspx?LegSess=83R&Bill=HJR24



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land. Provides an exemption from sanctions for land owned by an organization that qualifies as a school if the organization converts the land within five years to a use for which the land is eligible for a property tax exemption as property used for school purposes. Under current law, a landowner who converts land previously appraised as agricultural land to another use is subject to an additional tax equal to the difference between the taxes imposed on the land on the basis of its agricultural use for each of the five years preceding the year in which the change of use occurs and the tax that would have been imposed had the land been taxed on the basis of market value in each of those years, plus interest at an annual rate of seven percent calculated from the dates on which the differences would have become due. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 826 by Harless. Relating to the definitions of certain terms for purposes of the ad valorem taxation of certain dealer’s heavy equipment inventory. Amends the definition of a heavy equipment “dealer” for property tax purposes; provides that the term does not include a bank, savings bank, savings and loan association, credit union, or other finance company. The definition of “dealer’s heavy equipment inventory” is changed to apply to all items of heavy equipment that a dealer holds for sale, lease or rent in this state during a 12-month period. Effective 1/1/2014.

HB 1287 by Hilderbran. Relating to the contents of an application by certain persons for an exemption from ad valorem taxation of the person’s residence homestead. Exempts a resident of a facility that provides services related to health, infirmity or aging, or is certified for participation in the address confidentiality program administered by the attorney general from the requirement to provide a driver’s license or state-issued identification certificate in an application for a residence homestead exemption. Prohibits an applicant who is required to provide a driver’s license or identification certificate from receiving a homestead exemption unless the address listed on the license or certificate corresponds to the address of the property for which the exemption is claimed; authorizes a chief appraiser to waive this requirement if the applicant is an active duty member of the armed services or the spouse of such a person, or if the applicant is a federal or state judge or the spouse of such a judge. The bill would provide

alternate application requirements in those instances. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 1897 by Eiland. Relating to the exemption from ad valorem taxation of pollution control property. Authorizes a temporary property tax exemption for certain landfill methane capture property if the property meets certain criteria. The bill also amends certain pollution control property tax exemption provisions in the Tax Code; it requires the executive director of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to issue a determination letter to a person seeking such an exemption, and requires TCEQ to take final action on an initial appeal of the determination not later than the first anniversary of the date the executive director declares the application to be administratively complete. Additionally, the bill includes provisions that prohibit a property owner from receiving a refund resulting from the final determination of a district court appeal of the denial of a pollution control property tax exemption in certain circumstances . Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 2712 by Perez. Relating to the exemption from ad valorem taxation of energy storage systems used for the control of air pollution in a nonattainment area. Authorizes a taxing unit to offer a property tax exemption for certain energy storage systems if the system is located in a federal nonattainment area and in a municipality with a population of at least 100,000 adjacent to a municipality with a population of more than two million, and the system is installed on or after January 1, 2014. Effective 1/1/2014.

HB 3121 by Harper-Brown. Relating to the qualifications for the exemption from ad valorem taxation for aircraft parts located in this state for a limited time. Amends current law relating to the qualifications for the exemption from ad valorem taxation for aircraft parts located in this state for a limited time. Effective 1/1/2014, contingent upon voter approval of HJR 133.

HJR 133 by Harper-Brown. Proposing a constitutional amendment to authorize a political subdivision of this state to extend the number of days that aircraft parts that are exempt from ad valorem taxation due to their location in this state for a temporary period may be located in this state for purposes of qualifying for the tax exemption. Proposes an amendment to the state constitution to authorize the governing

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land. Provides an exemption from sanctions for land owned by an organization that qualifies as a school if the organization converts the land within five years to a use for which the land is eligible for a property tax exemption as property used for school purposes. Under current law, a landowner who converts land previously appraised as agricultural land to another use is subject to an additional tax equal to the difference between the taxes imposed on the land on the basis of its agricultural use for each of the five years preceding the year in which the change of use occurs and the tax that would have been imposed had the land been taxed on the basis of market value in each of those years, plus interest at an annual rate of seven percent calculated from the dates on which the differences would have become due. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 826 by Harless. Relating to the definitions of certain terms for purposes of the ad valorem taxation of certain dealer’s heavy equipment inventory. Amends the definition of a heavy equipment “dealer” for property tax purposes; provides that the term does not include a bank, savings bank, savings and loan association, credit union, or other finance company. The definition of “dealer’s heavy equipment inventory” is changed to apply to all items of heavy equipment that a dealer holds for sale, lease or rent in this state during a 12-month period. Effective 1/1/2014.

HB 1287 by Hilderbran. Relating to the contents of an application by certain persons for an exemption from ad valorem taxation of the person’s residence homestead. Exempts a resident of a facility that provides services related to health, infirmity or aging, or is certified for participation in the address confidentiality program administered by the attorney general from the requirement to provide a driver’s license or state-issued identification certificate in an application for a residence homestead exemption. Prohibits an applicant who is required to provide a driver’s license or identification certificate from receiving a homestead exemption unless the address listed on the license or certificate corresponds to the address of the property for which the exemption is claimed; authorizes a chief appraiser to waive this requirement if the applicant is an active duty member of the armed services or the spouse of such a person, or if the applicant is a federal or state judge or the spouse of such a judge. The bill would provide

alternate application requirements in those instances. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 1897 by Eiland. Relating to the exemption from ad valorem taxation of pollution control property. Authorizes a temporary property tax exemption for certain landfill methane capture property if the property meets certain criteria. The bill also amends certain pollution control property tax exemption provisions in the Tax Code; it requires the executive director of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to issue a determination letter to a person seeking such an exemption, and requires TCEQ to take final action on an initial appeal of the determination not later than the first anniversary of the date the executive director declares the application to be administratively complete. Additionally, the bill includes provisions that prohibit a property owner from receiving a refund resulting from the final determination of a district court appeal of the denial of a pollution control property tax exemption in certain circumstances . Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 2712 by Perez. Relating to the exemption from ad valorem taxation of energy storage systems used for the control of air pollution in a nonattainment area. Authorizes a taxing unit to offer a property tax exemption for certain energy storage systems if the system is located in a federal nonattainment area and in a municipality with a population of at least 100,000 adjacent to a municipality with a population of more than two million, and the system is installed on or after January 1, 2014. Effective 1/1/2014.

HB 3121 by Harper-Brown. Relating to the qualifications for the exemption from ad valorem taxation for aircraft parts located in this state for a limited time. Amends current law relating to the qualifications for the exemption from ad valorem taxation for aircraft parts located in this state for a limited time. Effective 1/1/2014, contingent upon voter approval of HJR 133.

HJR 133 by Harper-Brown. Proposing a constitutional amendment to authorize a political subdivision of this state to extend the number of days that aircraft parts that are exempt from ad valorem taxation due to their location in this state for a temporary period may be located in this state for purposes of qualifying for the tax exemption. Proposes an amendment to the state constitution to authorize the governing







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body of a political subdivision to extend the freeport exemption period, during which aircraft parts that are held temporarily in Texas for the sole purpose of assembly, storage, manufacturing, or other processing before being transported out of state may be exempted from property taxes, to a date not later than the 730th day after the date the person acquired or imported the aircraft parts in Texas. The resolution limits the application of such an extension to the property tax exemption by the political subdivision adopting the extension and authorizes the legislature by general law to prescribe the manner for extending such a period. Enabling legislation is HB 3121. Election Date 11/5/2013.

SB 163 by Van de Putte. Relating to an exemption from ad valorem taxation of the residence homestead of the surviving spouse of a member of the armed services of the United States who is killed in action. Entitles the surviving spouse of a member of the U.S. military who is killed in action to a property tax exemption for the total appraised value of the surviving spouse’s residence homestead provided that the surviving spouse has not remarried since that member’s death. The surviving spouse may also receive a tax exemption for a property that has subsequently qualified as the surviving spouse’s residence homestead in an amount equal to the dollar amount of the tax exemption for the first property in the last year in which the surviving spouse received that exemption if the surviving spouse still has not remarried. Effective 1/1/2014, contingent upon voter approval of HJR 62.

HJR 62 by Turner, Chris. Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to provide for an exemption from ad valorem taxation of all or part of the market value of the residence homestead of the surviving spouse of a member of the armed services of the United States who is killed in action. Authorizes the surviving spouse, of a member of the U.S. military who is killed in action, to receive a property tax exemption for all or part of the market value of the surviving spouse’s residence homestead, provided that the surviving spouse has not remarried since the death of the member of the U.S. military. The resolution also authorizes the legislature by general law to entitle a surviving spouse who qualifies for and receives the residence homestead exemption and who subsequently qualifies a different property as the surviving spouse’s

homestead to a property tax exemption for the subsequently qualified homestead in an amount equal to the dollar amount of the exemption for the former homestead in the last year in which the surviving spouse received an exemption for that homestead if the surviving spouse has not remarried since the death of the member of the U.S. military. Enabling legislation is SB 163. Election Date 11/5/2013.

PUBLIC OFFICIALS

HB 3314 by Kuempel. Relating to instruction and continuing education requirements for certain court clerks. Provides that the 20 hours of education for a new clerk must be obtained before the first anniversary of the clerk assuming office. All subsequent years, education requirements must be obtained during the calendar year. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 265 by Huffman. Relating to bond requirements for county officers and employees, district attorneys, and criminal district attorneys. Allows a commissioners court to self-insure in lieu of an otherwise required bond of office for a county officer or employee. Establishes that a district attorney or a criminal district attorney is not required to execute the required bond of office if the commissioners court chooses to self-insure against losses that would have been covered by the bond. Effective 5/18/2013.

SB 546 by Williams. Relating to continuing education requirements and a registration exemption for county tax assessor-collectors. Requires a county tax assessor-collector to successfully complete approved continuing education courses on ethics and on the constitutional and statutory duties of the office not later than the 90th day after the date on which the county assessor-collector first takes office and to successfully complete 20 hours of approved continuing education, including at least 10 hours of instruction on laws relating to property tax assessment and collection, if applicable to the office, before each anniversary of that date. Allows a county assessor-collector to carry forward from one 12-month period to the next up to 10 hours completed above the 20 hour minimum to satisfy the annual requirements, and requires a county tax assessor-collector to file a certificate of completion with the county commissioners court. Failure to complete

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body of a political subdivision to extend the freeport exemption period, during which aircraft parts that are held temporarily in Texas for the sole purpose of assembly, storage, manufacturing, or other processing before being transported out of state may be exempted from property taxes, to a date not later than the 730th day after the date the person acquired or imported the aircraft parts in Texas. The resolution limits the application of such an extension to the property tax exemption by the political subdivision adopting the extension and authorizes the legislature by general law to prescribe the manner for extending such a period. Enabling legislation is HB 3121. Election Date 11/5/2013.

SB 163 by Van de Putte. Relating to an exemption from ad valorem taxation of the residence homestead of the surviving spouse of a member of the armed services of the United States who is killed in action. Entitles the surviving spouse of a member of the U.S. military who is killed in action to a property tax exemption for the total appraised value of the surviving spouse’s residence homestead provided that the surviving spouse has not remarried since that member’s death. The surviving spouse may also receive a tax exemption for a property that has subsequently qualified as the surviving spouse’s residence homestead in an amount equal to the dollar amount of the tax exemption for the first property in the last year in which the surviving spouse received that exemption if the surviving spouse still has not remarried. Effective 1/1/2014, contingent upon voter approval of HJR 62.

HJR 62 by Turner, Chris. Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to provide for an exemption from ad valorem taxation of all or part of the market value of the residence homestead of the surviving spouse of a member of the armed services of the United States who is killed in action. Authorizes the surviving spouse, of a member of the U.S. military who is killed in action, to receive a property tax exemption for all or part of the market value of the surviving spouse’s residence homestead, provided that the surviving spouse has not remarried since the death of the member of the U.S. military. The resolution also authorizes the legislature by general law to entitle a surviving spouse who qualifies for and receives the residence homestead exemption and who subsequently qualifies a different property as the surviving spouse’s

homestead to a property tax exemption for the subsequently qualified homestead in an amount equal to the dollar amount of the exemption for the former homestead in the last year in which the surviving spouse received an exemption for that homestead if the surviving spouse has not remarried since the death of the member of the U.S. military. Enabling legislation is SB 163. Election Date 11/5/2013.

PUBLIC OFFICIALS

HB 3314 by Kuempel. Relating to instruction and continuing education requirements for certain court clerks. Provides that the 20 hours of education for a new clerk must be obtained before the first anniversary of the clerk assuming office. All subsequent years, education requirements must be obtained during the calendar year. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 265 by Huffman. Relating to bond requirements for county officers and employees, district attorneys, and criminal district attorneys. Allows a commissioners court to self-insure in lieu of an otherwise required bond of office for a county officer or employee. Establishes that a district attorney or a criminal district attorney is not required to execute the required bond of office if the commissioners court chooses to self-insure against losses that would have been covered by the bond. Effective 5/18/2013.

SB 546 by Williams. Relating to continuing education requirements and a registration exemption for county tax assessor-collectors. Requires a county tax assessor-collector to successfully complete approved continuing education courses on ethics and on the constitutional and statutory duties of the office not later than the 90th day after the date on which the county assessor-collector first takes office and to successfully complete 20 hours of approved continuing education, including at least 10 hours of instruction on laws relating to property tax assessment and collection, if applicable to the office, before each anniversary of that date. Allows a county assessor-collector to carry forward from one 12-month period to the next up to 10 hours completed above the 20 hour minimum to satisfy the annual requirements, and requires a county tax assessor-collector to file a certificate of completion with the county commissioners court. Failure to complete






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those continuing education requirements may constitute grounds for removal from office. Effective 6/14/2013; the continuing education requirements of the legislation are effective 1/1/2014.

SB 1080 by Lucio. Relating to a study on the adequacy and appropriateness of additional compensation paid to certain county judges. Requires the Office of Court Administration (OCA) to conduct a study to determine the adequacy and appropriateness of additional compensation paid to a county judge of a county that does not have a county court at law and has at least jurisdiction of Class A and B misdemeanor cases, probate matters, guardianship matters and certain mental health matters. OCA must prepare a report on the results of the study and recommendations to improve compensation and submit it to the legislature not later than November 1, 2014. Effective 9/1/2013.

PURCHASING

HB 768 by Howard. Relating to the application of the public and private facilities and infrastructure contracting requirements to technology facilities. Adds a technology facility as a qualifying project for public-private agreements under Chapter 2267 of the Government Code. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 1050 by Callegari. Relating to purchasing and other contracts by governmental entities. Prohibits a local government from entering into a contract to purchase construction-related goods or services through a purchasing cooperative in an amount greater than $50,000 unless a person designated by the local government makes certain written certification; authorizes a governmental entity with a population of 500,000 or more to enter into design-build contracts for not more than six projects in any fiscal year; and, authorizes a governmental entity that has a population of 100,000 or more but less than 500,000 to enter into design-build contracts for not more than four projects in any fiscal year, among other provisions. Effective 9/1/2013.

RECORDS

HB 694 by Phillips. Relating to access by certain military personnel to juvenile and criminal history

information. Allows the military to have access to an individual’s juvenile’s record for the purpose of determining eligibility to join the military if the individual provides written permission, even if the records are on restricted access status. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 1728 by Ashby. Relating to the use of an unsworn declaration, the disposition of certain court exhibits, and the seal of a constitutional county court or county clerk. Provides that an unsworn declaration may not be used for a lien required to be filed with a county clerk or an instrument concerning real or personal property required to be filed with a county clerk; allows exhibits to be destroyed on or after the first anniversary of the date of an acquittal of a defendant, or on or after the first anniversary of the date of the death of a defendant; and, allows a county clerk to electronically sign documents and electronically affix a seal providing certain criteria are met. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 887 by Uresti. Relating to certain correction instruments in the conveyance of real property. Establishes a uniform system for correcting recorded documents without initiating a court proceeding. Clarifies that a person with personal knowledge of facts relevant to the correction may prepare or execute a correction instrument to make a nonmaterial change to a legal description resulting from a clerical error or an inadvertent error. Allows a correction instrument to replace the original instrument, subject to the property interests of a creditor or a subsequent purchaser. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1437 by Paxton. Relating to authorizing certain persons to file documents electronically for recording with a county clerk. Authorizes a municipal clerk, and, in a county with a population of 500,000 or more, any person with whom the county enters into a memorandum of understanding, the authority to file records with the county clerk electronically. Effective 6/14/2013.

SPECIAL DISTRICTS

HB 738 by Crownover. Relating to the review of the creation of certain proposed municipal utility districts by county commissioners courts. Expands that authority to allow a commissioners court to

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those continuing education requirements may constitute grounds for removal from office. Effective 6/14/2013; the continuing education requirements of the legislation are effective 1/1/2014.

SB 1080 by Lucio. Relating to a study on the adequacy and appropriateness of additional compensation paid to certain county judges. Requires the Office of Court Administration (OCA) to conduct a study to determine the adequacy and appropriateness of additional compensation paid to a county judge of a county that does not have a county court at law and has at least jurisdiction of Class A and B misdemeanor cases, probate matters, guardianship matters and certain mental health matters. OCA must prepare a report on the results of the study and recommendations to improve compensation and submit it to the legislature not later than November 1, 2014. Effective 9/1/2013.

PURCHASING

HB 768 by Howard. Relating to the application of the public and private facilities and infrastructure contracting requirements to technology facilities. Adds a technology facility as a qualifying project for public-private agreements under Chapter 2267 of the Government Code. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 1050 by Callegari. Relating to purchasing and other contracts by governmental entities. Prohibits a local government from entering into a contract to purchase construction-related goods or services through a purchasing cooperative in an amount greater than $50,000 unless a person designated by the local government makes certain written certification; authorizes a governmental entity with a population of 500,000 or more to enter into design-build contracts for not more than six projects in any fiscal year; and, authorizes a governmental entity that has a population of 100,000 or more but less than 500,000 to enter into design-build contracts for not more than four projects in any fiscal year, among other provisions. Effective 9/1/2013.

RECORDS

HB 694 by Phillips. Relating to access by certain military personnel to juvenile and criminal history

information. Allows the military to have access to an individual’s juvenile’s record for the purpose of determining eligibility to join the military if the individual provides written permission, even if the records are on restricted access status. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 1728 by Ashby. Relating to the use of an unsworn declaration, the disposition of certain court exhibits, and the seal of a constitutional county court or county clerk. Provides that an unsworn declaration may not be used for a lien required to be filed with a county clerk or an instrument concerning real or personal property required to be filed with a county clerk; allows exhibits to be destroyed on or after the first anniversary of the date of an acquittal of a defendant, or on or after the first anniversary of the date of the death of a defendant; and, allows a county clerk to electronically sign documents and electronically affix a seal providing certain criteria are met. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 887 by Uresti. Relating to certain correction instruments in the conveyance of real property. Establishes a uniform system for correcting recorded documents without initiating a court proceeding. Clarifies that a person with personal knowledge of facts relevant to the correction may prepare or execute a correction instrument to make a nonmaterial change to a legal description resulting from a clerical error or an inadvertent error. Allows a correction instrument to replace the original instrument, subject to the property interests of a creditor or a subsequent purchaser. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1437 by Paxton. Relating to authorizing certain persons to file documents electronically for recording with a county clerk. Authorizes a municipal clerk, and, in a county with a population of 500,000 or more, any person with whom the county enters into a memorandum of understanding, the authority to file records with the county clerk electronically. Effective 6/14/2013.

SPECIAL DISTRICTS

HB 738 by Crownover. Relating to the review of the creation of certain proposed municipal utility districts by county commissioners courts. Expands that authority to allow a commissioners court to









42


review a petition for a proposed municipal utility district (MUD) all of which is located outside the corporate limits of a municipality. Directs the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to promptly notify a commissioners court if a petition is filed to create such a MUD. Previous law allowed a commissioners court to review the petition for the creation of a MUD to be created outside the extraterritorial jurisdiction of a municipality. Requires TCEQ to consider the input of the commissioners court. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 3795 by Coleman. Relating to the creation of a county assistance district. Allows for more than one county assistance district to be created per commissioners’ precinct. Previous law allowed no more than one per precinct. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 1167 by Hegar. Relating to the creation of a county assistance district. Enables counties to create more than one county assistance district in a commissioners’ precinct and allows the district to collect any available sales tax. Effective 6/14/2013.

STATE BUDGET

HB 7 by Darby. Relating to the amounts, availability, and use of certain statutorily dedicated revenue and accounts; reducing or affecting the amounts or rates of certain statutorily dedicated fees and assessments; making an appropriation. Directs the Legislative Budget Board (LBB) to develop and implement a process to review the dedication, appropriation, and accumulation of general revenue-dedicated funds. The bill further directs LBB to come up with measures on how to reduce the reliance on dedicated funds over the next six years. Among other provisions, it expands the use of various dedicated fund accounts. Effective 6/14/2013, except Section 19 takes effect 9/1/2015.

HB 10 by Pitts. Relating to making emergency supplemental appropriations and providing direction and transfer authority regarding certain appropriations. Makes various appropriations to cover expenditures, mainly relating to Medicaid costs, for the fiscal year which ends on August 31, 2013. Effective 3/13/2013.

HB 1025 by Pitts. Relating to making supplemental appropriations and reductions in appropriations and

giving direction and adjustment authority regarding appropriations. Reduces some appropriations in fiscal year 2013 and increases certain other appropriations, including adding $1.5 million to the Veterans Commission to create two state strike force teams to address the backlog of claims in Houston and Waco. Among other provisions, the bill also appropriates $15 million to the trusteed programs within the governor’s office to assist units of local governments affected by wildfires and disaster-related events. The governor’s line item vetoes reduced available appropriations by over $500 million. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 1 by Williams. General Appropriations Bill. Reflects the conference committee report for the state budget and appropriates $197 billion for the next two fiscal years (FY 2014-15). The governor vetoed several line-items within the state budget, including funding for the Public Integrity Unit, which will directly impact Travis County. Appropriations for county-related state funded programs are shown in the chart on page 47.

SUBDIVISION REGULATION

SB 194 by West. Relating to ingress and egress for access by emergency vehicles and for use during evacuations in certain new residential subdivisions. Directs a commissioners court to adopt infrastructure standards requiring at least two means of ingress and egress in the subdivision to provide for sufficient routes of travel for emergency vehicles and for evacuation purposes resulting from fire or other natural disasters. This bill does not limit the authority of a commissioners court under any other existing law, as applicable, to adopt more stringent infrastructure standards. SB 194 applies only to a residential subdivision that is divided into 1,000 or more lots and is in the unincorporated area of the county. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 552 by Uresti. Relating to an application filed with a county commissioners court to revise a subdivision plat; authorizing a fee. Provides an alternative procedure for revising a subdivision plat as detailed in Subchapters A and B, Chapter 232, Local Government Code. If the commissioners court determines a plat revision does not affect a public interest or public property of any type (including but

42


review a petition for a proposed municipal utility district (MUD) all of which is located outside the corporate limits of a municipality. Directs the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to promptly notify a commissioners court if a petition is filed to create such a MUD. Previous law allowed a commissioners court to review the petition for the creation of a MUD to be created outside the extraterritorial jurisdiction of a municipality. Requires TCEQ to consider the input of the commissioners court. Effective 9/1/2013.

HB 3795 by Coleman. Relating to the creation of a county assistance district. Allows for more than one county assistance district to be created per commissioners’ precinct. Previous law allowed no more than one per precinct. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 1167 by Hegar. Relating to the creation of a county assistance district. Enables counties to create more than one county assistance district in a commissioners’ precinct and allows the district to collect any available sales tax. Effective 6/14/2013.

STATE BUDGET

HB 7 by Darby. Relating to the amounts, availability, and use of certain statutorily dedicated revenue and accounts; reducing or affecting the amounts or rates of certain statutorily dedicated fees and assessments; making an appropriation. Directs the Legislative Budget Board (LBB) to develop and implement a process to review the dedication, appropriation, and accumulation of general revenue-dedicated funds. The bill further directs LBB to come up with measures on how to reduce the reliance on dedicated funds over the next six years. Among other provisions, it expands the use of various dedicated fund accounts. Effective 6/14/2013, except Section 19 takes effect 9/1/2015.

HB 10 by Pitts. Relating to making emergency supplemental appropriations and providing direction and transfer authority regarding certain appropriations. Makes various appropriations to cover expenditures, mainly relating to Medicaid costs, for the fiscal year which ends on August 31, 2013. Effective 3/13/2013.

HB 1025 by Pitts. Relating to making supplemental appropriations and reductions in appropriations and

giving direction and adjustment authority regarding appropriations. Reduces some appropriations in fiscal year 2013 and increases certain other appropriations, including adding $1.5 million to the Veterans Commission to create two state strike force teams to address the backlog of claims in Houston and Waco. Among other provisions, the bill also appropriates $15 million to the trusteed programs within the governor’s office to assist units of local governments affected by wildfires and disaster-related events. The governor’s line item vetoes reduced available appropriations by over $500 million. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 1 by Williams. General Appropriations Bill. Reflects the conference committee report for the state budget and appropriates $197 billion for the next two fiscal years (FY 2014-15). The governor vetoed several line-items within the state budget, including funding for the Public Integrity Unit, which will directly impact Travis County. Appropriations for county-related state funded programs are shown in the chart on page 47.

SUBDIVISION REGULATION

SB 194 by West. Relating to ingress and egress for access by emergency vehicles and for use during evacuations in certain new residential subdivisions. Directs a commissioners court to adopt infrastructure standards requiring at least two means of ingress and egress in the subdivision to provide for sufficient routes of travel for emergency vehicles and for evacuation purposes resulting from fire or other natural disasters. This bill does not limit the authority of a commissioners court under any other existing law, as applicable, to adopt more stringent infrastructure standards. SB 194 applies only to a residential subdivision that is divided into 1,000 or more lots and is in the unincorporated area of the county. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 552 by Uresti. Relating to an application filed with a county commissioners court to revise a subdivision plat; authorizing a fee. Provides an alternative procedure for revising a subdivision plat as detailed in Subchapters A and B, Chapter 232, Local Government Code. If the commissioners court determines a plat revision does not affect a public interest or public property of any type (including but









43


not limited to a park, school, or road), the current notice requirements in Section 232.009(c) do not apply. The commissioners court must then provide written notice of the plat revision application to the owners of the lots that are within 200 feet of the subdivision plat to be revised. If the county maintains a website, the county must post notice of the application continuously on the website for at least 30 days preceding the date of the meeting to consider the application until the day after the meeting. The commissioners court may impose a fee for filing a plat revision application and the amount of the fee must be based on the cost of processing the application, including publishing the notices required by the section. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 1599 by Zaffirini. Relating to county and municipal land development regulation. For counties operating under Subchapter B, Chapter 232, Local Government Code (LGC), increases from 10 or more acres to more than 10 acres the minimum subdivision lot size required in order to be exempt from the platting requirements in this subchapter. Clarifies that a subdivider of land must prepare a plat of the subdivision where at least one of the lots of the subdivision is five acres or less. Allows a commissioners court in a Subchapter B county to require, by order, that a subdivider prepare a plat if none of the lots is five acres or fewer but at least one of the lots in a subdivision is more than five acres but not more than 10 acres.

For counties operating under Subchapter C, Chapter 232, LGC, clarifies that a subdivider must prepare a plat if he subdivides the tract in any manner that creates at least one lot of five acres or fewer. Allows a commissioners court in a Subchapter C county to require, by order, that a subdivider prepare a plat if none of the lots is five acres or fewer but at least one of the lots of the subdivision is more than five acres but not more than 10 acres.

Allows the model subdivision rules from the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) to impose the platting and replatting requirement in Section 16.343 of the Water Code. Allows a county that has adopted the model rules to impose the applicable platting requirements found in Chapter 232, LGC to real property that is required to be platted or replatted by the model rules.

Removes previous TWDB local model subdivision rules adoption requirements and instead plainly states that before an applicant for TWDB funds under the program may be considered, if the applicant is in a municipality, the municipality must have adopted the model rules. If the applicant is located in the extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) of a municipality, the applicant must demonstrate the model rules have been adopted and are enforced in the ETJ by either the municipality or the county. If the applicant is located outside the ETJ of a municipality, the county must adopt and enforce the model rules. Effective 9/1/2013.

TECHNOLOGY

SB 246 by West. Relating to the electronic submission of a request for an attorney general opinion. Authorizes the electronic submission of a request for an attorney general opinion via e-mail. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 866 by Paxton. Relating to authorizing local governments to participate in statewide technology centers. Authorizes local governments to participate in statewide technology centers operated by the Department of Information Resources (DIR). If selected to participate in a statewide technology center, a local government is authorized to contract with DIR to receive identified services and have identified operations performed through the technology center. The bill requires DIR to provide notice to a local government selected for participation that includes the scope of the services to be provided; a schedule of anticipated costs for the local government; and, the implementation schedule. Effective 5/18/2013.

TRANSPORTATION

HB 1384 by Bell. Relating to the authority of a county road department to accept donations. Clarifies the authority for counties that have created a county road department to accept donations, including labor, materials and money, to aid in the building or maintaining of roads in the county. Effective 6/14/2013.

43


not limited to a park, school, or road), the current notice requirements in Section 232.009(c) do not apply. The commissioners court must then provide written notice of the plat revision application to the owners of the lots that are within 200 feet of the subdivision plat to be revised. If the county maintains a website, the county must post notice of the application continuously on the website for at least 30 days preceding the date of the meeting to consider the application until the day after the meeting. The commissioners court may impose a fee for filing a plat revision application and the amount of the fee must be based on the cost of processing the application, including publishing the notices required by the section. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 1599 by Zaffirini. Relating to county and municipal land development regulation. For counties operating under Subchapter B, Chapter 232, Local Government Code (LGC), increases from 10 or more acres to more than 10 acres the minimum subdivision lot size required in order to be exempt from the platting requirements in this subchapter. Clarifies that a subdivider of land must prepare a plat of the subdivision where at least one of the lots of the subdivision is five acres or less. Allows a commissioners court in a Subchapter B county to require, by order, that a subdivider prepare a plat if none of the lots is five acres or fewer but at least one of the lots in a subdivision is more than five acres but not more than 10 acres.

For counties operating under Subchapter C, Chapter 232, LGC, clarifies that a subdivider must prepare a plat if he subdivides the tract in any manner that creates at least one lot of five acres or fewer. Allows a commissioners court in a Subchapter C county to require, by order, that a subdivider prepare a plat if none of the lots is five acres or fewer but at least one of the lots of the subdivision is more than five acres but not more than 10 acres.

Allows the model subdivision rules from the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) to impose the platting and replatting requirement in Section 16.343 of the Water Code. Allows a county that has adopted the model rules to impose the applicable platting requirements found in Chapter 232, LGC to real property that is required to be platted or replatted by the model rules.

Removes previous TWDB local model subdivision rules adoption requirements and instead plainly states that before an applicant for TWDB funds under the program may be considered, if the applicant is in a municipality, the municipality must have adopted the model rules. If the applicant is located in the extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) of a municipality, the applicant must demonstrate the model rules have been adopted and are enforced in the ETJ by either the municipality or the county. If the applicant is located outside the ETJ of a municipality, the county must adopt and enforce the model rules. Effective 9/1/2013.

TECHNOLOGY

SB 246 by West. Relating to the electronic submission of a request for an attorney general opinion. Authorizes the electronic submission of a request for an attorney general opinion via e-mail. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 866 by Paxton. Relating to authorizing local governments to participate in statewide technology centers. Authorizes local governments to participate in statewide technology centers operated by the Department of Information Resources (DIR). If selected to participate in a statewide technology center, a local government is authorized to contract with DIR to receive identified services and have identified operations performed through the technology center. The bill requires DIR to provide notice to a local government selected for participation that includes the scope of the services to be provided; a schedule of anticipated costs for the local government; and, the implementation schedule. Effective 5/18/2013.

TRANSPORTATION

HB 1384 by Bell. Relating to the authority of a county road department to accept donations. Clarifies the authority for counties that have created a county road department to accept donations, including labor, materials and money, to aid in the building or maintaining of roads in the county. Effective 6/14/2013.





44


HB 1607 by Farney. Relating to the authority of the commissioners court of a county to alter speed limits on county roads. Allows a commissioners court to set the speed limit on a county road or highway up to 70 miles per hour. Current law allows for a maximum of 60 miles per hour. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 2612 by Flynn. Relating to prohibitions and restrictions on using county roads in certain circumstances. Allows a commissioners court to identify an alternate route to a road and require heavy vehicles with a gross weight of more than 60,000 pounds to travel the route to prevent excessive damage to the road. The alternate route must be of sufficient strength and design to withstand the weight of the vehicles traveling the route. The bill provides that a person required to use an alternate route is not liable for damage sustained by the road, unless the damage was caused by wanton, willful and intentional misconduct or gross negligence.

The bill also allows a road supervisor, in certain circumstances, to prohibit or restrict the use of a road under the supervisor’s control by any vehicle that would unduly damage the road, if an alternative, more suitable road is available within the county at that time. Before restricting the use, the road supervisor must post notices that state the road and the expected duration of the restriction and identify the alternate route. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 2859 by Harless. Relating to the amount of money authorized to be used for Clean Air Act local initiative projects related to vehicles. Increases the total amount of fees collected from $5 to $7 million per fiscal year under the Vehicle Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Program and Inspection and Maintenance Program; the funds are intended to be used to accommodate additional nonattainment counties that may participate. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1017 by Paxton. Relating to the funding for and administration of travel and information operations by the Texas Department of Transportation. Allows the Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to enter into an agreement with a local government that would allow the local government to operate a travel information center within its boundaries. TxDOT may also issue a request for proposals to private or nonprofit entities for the operation of a travel information center, and sell advertising space at a

travel center. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 1411 by Deuell. Relating to regulation of traffic in a special district by a commissioners court. Authorizes a commissioners court to enter into an interlocal agreement with the board of a special district to regulate traffic on a public road owned, operated and maintained by the district if the commissioners court finds that it is in the county’s interest to regulate the traffic. Allows the county, by order, to apply the county’s traffic regulations to a public road in the county that is owned, operated and maintained by a special district and located wholly or partly in the county if the commissioners court and the district board have entered into an interlocal contract; a public road that is subject to such an order is considered to be a county road for purposes of applying a traffic regulation to the public road. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 1747 by Uresti. Relating to funding and donations for transportation projects, including projects of county energy transportation reinvestment zones. Creates the transportation infrastructure fund, a dedicated account in the state treasury, consisting of eligible federal and state funds, as well as gifts and grants. Grants the Texas Department of Transportation the authority to develop policies and procedures to administer a grant program to counties for transportation infrastructure projects located in areas of the state affected by increased oil and gas production. Creates a formula for grant distribution during a fiscal year among counties that designate a county energy transportation reinvestment zone, appropriating 20 percent to counties based on weight tolerance permits issued in the preceding fiscal year, 20 percent according to oil and gas production taxes in the preceding fiscal year, 50 percent determined by well completions in the preceding fiscal year, and 10 percent according to the volume of oil and gas waste injected in the preceding fiscal year.

The bill allows a county to designate an area affected by oil and gas exploration and production as a county energy transportation reinvestment zone. It includes requirements regarding an advisory board and for holding a public hearing on the creation of the zone, on its benefits to the county and to property in the proposed zone. Establishes an ad valorem tax increment account for the zone funded by

44


HB 1607 by Farney. Relating to the authority of the commissioners court of a county to alter speed limits on county roads. Allows a commissioners court to set the speed limit on a county road or highway up to 70 miles per hour. Current law allows for a maximum of 60 miles per hour. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 2612 by Flynn. Relating to prohibitions and restrictions on using county roads in certain circumstances. Allows a commissioners court to identify an alternate route to a road and require heavy vehicles with a gross weight of more than 60,000 pounds to travel the route to prevent excessive damage to the road. The alternate route must be of sufficient strength and design to withstand the weight of the vehicles traveling the route. The bill provides that a person required to use an alternate route is not liable for damage sustained by the road, unless the damage was caused by wanton, willful and intentional misconduct or gross negligence.

The bill also allows a road supervisor, in certain circumstances, to prohibit or restrict the use of a road under the supervisor’s control by any vehicle that would unduly damage the road, if an alternative, more suitable road is available within the county at that time. Before restricting the use, the road supervisor must post notices that state the road and the expected duration of the restriction and identify the alternate route. Effective 6/14/2013.

HB 2859 by Harless. Relating to the amount of money authorized to be used for Clean Air Act local initiative projects related to vehicles. Increases the total amount of fees collected from $5 to $7 million per fiscal year under the Vehicle Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Program and Inspection and Maintenance Program; the funds are intended to be used to accommodate additional nonattainment counties that may participate. Effective 9/1/2013.

SB 1017 by Paxton. Relating to the funding for and administration of travel and information operations by the Texas Department of Transportation. Allows the Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to enter into an agreement with a local government that would allow the local government to operate a travel information center within its boundaries. TxDOT may also issue a request for proposals to private or nonprofit entities for the operation of a travel information center, and sell advertising space at a

travel center. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 1411 by Deuell. Relating to regulation of traffic in a special district by a commissioners court. Authorizes a commissioners court to enter into an interlocal agreement with the board of a special district to regulate traffic on a public road owned, operated and maintained by the district if the commissioners court finds that it is in the county’s interest to regulate the traffic. Allows the county, by order, to apply the county’s traffic regulations to a public road in the county that is owned, operated and maintained by a special district and located wholly or partly in the county if the commissioners court and the district board have entered into an interlocal contract; a public road that is subject to such an order is considered to be a county road for purposes of applying a traffic regulation to the public road. Effective 6/14/2013.

SB 1747 by Uresti. Relating to funding and donations for transportation projects, including projects of county energy transportation reinvestment zones. Creates the transportation infrastructure fund, a dedicated account in the state treasury, consisting of eligible federal and state funds, as well as gifts and grants. Grants the Texas Department of Transportation the authority to develop policies and procedures to administer a grant program to counties for transportation infrastructure projects located in areas of the state affected by increased oil and gas production. Creates a formula for grant distribution during a fiscal year among counties that designate a county energy transportation reinvestment zone, appropriating 20 percent to counties based on weight tolerance permits issued in the preceding fiscal year, 20 percent according to oil and gas production taxes in the preceding fiscal year, 50 percent determined by well completions in the preceding fiscal year, and 10 percent according to the volume of oil and gas waste injected in the preceding fiscal year.

The bill allows a county to designate an area affected by oil and gas exploration and production as a county energy transportation reinvestment zone. It includes requirements regarding an advisory board and for holding a public hearing on the creation of the zone, on its benefits to the county and to property in the proposed zone. Establishes an ad valorem tax increment account for the zone funded by







45


taxes collected on property in a zone to be used for transportation projects located in the zone, and, in the alternative, allows a county to create a road utility district, with the same boundaries as the zone, which may issue bonds. Effective 9/1/2013.

VITAL STATISTICS

HB 869 by Ashby. Relating to the issuance of a marriage license for an absent applicant, the participation of a proxy in certain marriage ceremonies, and the maintenance and submission of records relating to a marriage license issued for an absent applicant. Allows a clerk to issue a marriage license to a person on behalf of both absent applicants if one or both absent applicants are members of the military. However, if neither absent applicants are members of the military, then at least one of the people getting married has to appear before the clerk with an absent applicant affidavit for the other in hand to acquire the marriage license. Effective 9/1/2013.

WATER

HB 4 by Ritter. Relating to the administration of the Texas Water Development Board and the funding of water projects by the board and other entities; authorizing the issuance of revenue bonds. Will provide, with HB 1025, $2 billion for funding the state water plan. Creates two funds in the state treasury and outside the general revenue fund, sets aside no less than 10 percent of the funds for rural political subdivisions or agricultural water conservation and no less than 20 percent for water conservation and reuse projects. Restructures the Water Development Board from six part-time members to three full-time, paid members, and sets forth requirements for areas of expertise for them. HB 4 along with HB 1025 serves as the enabling legislation for SJR 1. Effective 9/01/2013, with certain sections contingent upon voter approval of SJR 1.

SJR 1 by Williams. Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the creation of the State Water Implementation Fund for Texas and the State Water Implementation Revenue Fund for Texas to assist in the financing of priority projects in the state

water plan. Creates, outside the general fund, two special funds in the state treasury; both funds would be administered by the Water Development Board for the purpose of funding the state water plan. Upon its passage, $2 billion from the rainy day fund would be transferred into these accounts for that purpose. Enabling legislation is HB 4. Election Date 11/5/2013.

45


taxes collected on property in a zone to be used for transportation projects located in the zone, and, in the alternative, allows a county to create a road utility district, with the same boundaries as the zone, which may issue bonds. Effective 9/1/2013.

VITAL STATISTICS

HB 869 by Ashby. Relating to the issuance of a marriage license for an absent applicant, the participation of a proxy in certain marriage ceremonies, and the maintenance and submission of records relating to a marriage license issued for an absent applicant. Allows a clerk to issue a marriage license to a person on behalf of both absent applicants if one or both absent applicants are members of the military. However, if neither absent applicants are members of the military, then at least one of the people getting married has to appear before the clerk with an absent applicant affidavit for the other in hand to acquire the marriage license. Effective 9/1/2013.

WATER

HB 4 by Ritter. Relating to the administration of the Texas Water Development Board and the funding of water projects by the board and other entities; authorizing the issuance of revenue bonds. Will provide, with HB 1025, $2 billion for funding the state water plan. Creates two funds in the state treasury and outside the general revenue fund, sets aside no less than 10 percent of the funds for rural political subdivisions or agricultural water conservation and no less than 20 percent for water conservation and reuse projects. Restructures the Water Development Board from six part-time members to three full-time, paid members, and sets forth requirements for areas of expertise for them. HB 4 along with HB 1025 serves as the enabling legislation for SJR 1. Effective 9/01/2013, with certain sections contingent upon voter approval of SJR 1.

SJR 1 by Williams. Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the creation of the State Water Implementation Fund for Texas and the State Water Implementation Revenue Fund for Texas to assist in the financing of priority projects in the state

water plan. Creates, outside the general fund, two special funds in the state treasury; both funds would be administered by the Water Development Board for the purpose of funding the state water plan. Upon its passage, $2 billion from the rainy day fund would be transferred into these accounts for that purpose. Enabling legislation is HB 4. Election Date 11/5/2013.



http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/BillLookup/text.aspx?LegSess=83R&Bill=SJR1

47



GENERAL APPROPRIATIONS

ACT-SB1

47



GENERAL APPROPRIATIONS

ACT-SB1

48


Conference Committee Report on SB 1 (2014-15 Biennium) (Introduced version of the House/Senate General Appropriations Act, Including Committee Substitutes for SB 1

and House Committee Substitute for SB 1)

PROGRAMS AFFECTING COUNTIESTexas Association of Counties, County Information Program (CIP)

Article I – General Government Comptroller of Public Accounts:

Programs Descriptions

Fiscal Research and Studies

Eliminating the agency’s public outreach, publications and local government assistance programs. It provides seminars and workshops to local government officials on financial matters. Funding not restored in the proposed budgets for 2014-15.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$2,000,000 $2,000,000 $0 $0 $0 $0

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$7,388,356 $7,381,609 $113,624 $113,195 $0 $0

Lateral Road Funds Districts: Distributions to Counties for Road Repair and Maintenance– Strategy: A.1.5(CPA, Fiscal Programs)

Funds distributed to counties for road expenses, including construction and maintenance. HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are approximately $14.8 million, which is $229,000 more than the current budget. Committee Substitute - SB 1/HCSSB 1: Probably a technical adjustment adds $119.00 in fiscal year 2014. *CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$7,300,000 $7,300,000 $7,300,000 $7,300,000 $7,529,119$7,529,000

$7,300,000

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$7,300,000 $7,300,000 $7,300,000 $7,300,000 $7,529,119$7,529,000

$7,300,000

Texas Association of Counties, Legislative/County Information Program,

prepared by Paul Emerson, TAC State Financial Analyst, [email protected]

*Highlighted in red are the changes that occurred during the Conference Committee.

Rev. Date: 06/24/2013, Monday

Sources:Conference Committee Report on SB 1 (CCR), May 26, 2013CSSB 1, March 13, 2013HB 1, Introduced version, January 15, 2013SB 1, Introduced version, January 15, 201382nd General Appropriations Act - 2012-13 (Fiscal Size-up, September 12, 2011)Notes – from LBB, Summary of Legislative Budget Estimates House/Senate (2014-15 Biennium)

48


Conference Committee Report on SB 1 (2014-15 Biennium) (Introduced version of the House/Senate General Appropriations Act, Including Committee Substitutes for SB 1

and House Committee Substitute for SB 1)

PROGRAMS AFFECTING COUNTIESTexas Association of Counties, County Information Program (CIP)



Fiscal Research and Studies

Eliminating the agency’s public outreach, publications and local government assistance programs. It provides seminars and workshops to local government officials on financial matters. Funding not restored in the proposed budgets for 2014-15.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$2,000,000 $2,000,000 $0 $0 $0 $0

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$7,388,356 $7,381,609 $113,624 $113,195 $0 $0

Lateral Road Funds Districts: Distributions to Counties for Road Repair and Maintenance– Strategy: A.1.5(CPA, Fiscal Programs)

Funds distributed to counties for road expenses, including construction and maintenance. HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are approximately $14.8 million, which is $229,000 more than the current budget. Committee Substitute - SB 1/HCSSB 1: Probably a technical adjustment adds $119.00 in fiscal year 2014. *CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$7,300,000 $7,300,000 $7,300,000 $7,300,000 $7,529,119$7,529,000

$7,300,000

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$7,300,000 $7,300,000 $7,300,000 $7,300,000 $7,529,119$7,529,000

$7,300,000

Texas Association of Counties, Legislative/County Information Program,

prepared by Paul Emerson, TAC State Financial Analyst, [email protected]

*Highlighted in red are the changes that occurred during the Conference Committee.



49


Conference Committee Report on SB 1 (2014-15 Biennium)



Gross Weight/Axle Fee: Distributions to Counties per Trans-portation Code section 621.353 - Strategy: A.1.10 (CPA, Fiscal Programs)

Funding is the same as the current budget. Note: Funding reflects a method-of-finance swap from State Highway Fund 6 to General Revenue Funds for distributions to counties of a por-tion of amounts collected from gross weight and axle weight permit fees to align with the Texas Transportation Code, Section 621.353. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: Stayed the same. CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$7,500,000 $7,500,000 $7,500,000 $7,500,000 $7,500,000 $7,500,000

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$7,500,000 $7,500,000 $7,500,000 $7,500,000 $7,500,000 $7,500,000

Mixed Beverage Tax Reimbursements – Strategy: A.1.2 (CPA, Fiscal Programs)

Reimbursements to counties and incorporated municipalities from mixed beverage tax collections. HB 1/SB 1 will add $61.3 million more than the current budget. Note: As a result of an increase in the rate of reimbursement from 8.3065 percent to the new statutory minimum rate of reim-bursement of 10.7143 percent, effective September 1, 2013. Committee Substitute - SB 1/HCSSB 1: Stayed the same. CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$128,318,000 $132,937,000 $119,714,964 $126,305,843 $149,456,000 $157,840,000

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$128,318,000 $132,937,000 $119,714,964 $126,305,843 $149,456,000 $157,840,000



49





Gross Weight/Axle Fee: Distributions to Counties per Trans-portation Code section 621.353 - Strategy: A.1.10 (CPA, Fiscal Programs)

Funding is the same as the current budget. Note: Funding reflects a method-of-finance swap from State Highway Fund 6 to General Revenue Funds for distributions to counties of a por-tion of amounts collected from gross weight and axle weight permit fees to align with the Texas Transportation Code, Section 621.353. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: Stayed the same. CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$7,500,000 $7,500,000 $7,500,000 $7,500,000 $7,500,000 $7,500,000

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$7,500,000 $7,500,000 $7,500,000 $7,500,000 $7,500,000 $7,500,000

Mixed Beverage Tax Reimbursements – Strategy: A.1.2 (CPA, Fiscal Programs)

Reimbursements to counties and incorporated municipalities from mixed beverage tax collections. HB 1/SB 1 will add $61.3 million more than the current budget. Note: As a result of an increase in the rate of reimbursement from 8.3065 percent to the new statutory minimum rate of reim-bursement of 10.7143 percent, effective September 1, 2013. Committee Substitute - SB 1/HCSSB 1: Stayed the same. CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$128,318,000 $132,937,000 $119,714,964 $126,305,843 $149,456,000 $157,840,000

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$128,318,000 $132,937,000 $119,714,964 $126,305,843 $149,456,000 $157,840,000



50





Grants Programs – Strategy: Underage Tobacco Program

Eliminating underage tobacco enforcement grants ($4 million). This strategy is no longer in HB 1/SB 1.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$2,000,000 $2,000,000 $0 $0 $0 $0

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$2,000,000 $2,000,000 $0 $0 $0 $0

Grants Programs Local Continuing Education Grants A.1.7 (CPA, Fiscal Programs)

Local continuing education grants for law enforcement officers –known as the LEOSE program. SB 1 proposed $12 million more than HB 1. Committee Substitute SB 1 stayed the same. HCSSB 1 adds $3 million per year and $6 million to Article XI (wish list). CCR adopted the Senate’s version.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$6,000,000 $6,000,000 $0 $0 $3,000,000 $0

$3,000,000 $0

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$6,000,000 $6,000,000 $0 $0 $6,000,000 $6,000,000

State Energy Conser-vation Office – Goal B: Energy Office

Providing revolving loans to state agencies and local governments – including school districts – to retrofit buildings with new technology and equipment to reduce energy and water con-sumption. Both bills proposed $58.7 million. Committee Substitute SB 1: Stayed the same. CCR adopted the same figures.



50





Grants Programs – Strategy: Underage Tobacco Program

Eliminating underage tobacco enforcement grants ($4 million). This strategy is no longer in HB 1/SB 1.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$2,000,000 $2,000,000 $0 $0 $0 $0

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$2,000,000 $2,000,000 $0 $0 $0 $0

Grants Programs Local Continuing Education Grants A.1.7 (CPA, Fiscal Programs)

Local continuing education grants for law enforcement officers –known as the LEOSE program. SB 1 proposed $12 million more than HB 1. Committee Substitute SB 1 stayed the same. HCSSB 1 adds $3 million per year and $6 million to Article XI (wish list). CCR adopted the Senate’s version.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$6,000,000 $6,000,000 $0 $0 $3,000,000 $0

$3,000,000 $0

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$6,000,000 $6,000,000 $0 $0 $6,000,000 $6,000,000

State Energy Conser-vation Office – Goal B: Energy Office

Providing revolving loans to state agencies and local governments – including school districts – to retrofit buildings with new technology and equipment to reduce energy and water con-sumption. Both bills proposed $58.7 million. Committee Substitute SB 1: Stayed the same. CCR adopted the same figures.



51



Article I – General Government Commission on State Emergency Communications:


9-1-1 Services –Goal A

Providing grants and assistance to local governments through Regional Planning Commissions as they develop and implement regional plans and maintenance for 9-1-1 services. HB 1 proposed $102 million. SB 1 proposed $89.1 million. The difference between HB 1 and SB 1 is $12.9 mil-lion. HB 1 is $2 million more than the current budget. SB 1 is $10.9 million less than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1 adds $40.6 million to its baseline budget. HCSSB 1 stayed the same. Additional funds in Article XI (wish list) in both bills. CCR adopted the Senate’s version

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$65,418,771 $59,034,001 $49,658,985 $50,395,129 $47,233,097 $54,795,374

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$65,418,771 $59,034,001 $49,658,985 $50,395,129 $44,582,002$69,523,363

$44,583,001$60,227,686



51



Article I – General Government Commission on State Emergency Communications:


9-1-1 Services –Goal A

Providing grants and assistance to local governments through Regional Planning Commissions as they develop and implement regional plans and maintenance for 9-1-1 services. HB 1 proposed $102 million. SB 1 proposed $89.1 million. The difference between HB 1 and SB 1 is $12.9 mil-lion. HB 1 is $2 million more than the current budget. SB 1 is $10.9 million less than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1 adds $40.6 million to its baseline budget. HCSSB 1 stayed the same. Additional funds in Article XI (wish list) in both bills. CCR adopted the Senate’s version

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$65,418,771 $59,034,001 $49,658,985 $50,395,129 $47,233,097 $54,795,374

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$65,418,771 $59,034,001 $49,658,985 $50,395,129 $44,582,002$69,523,363

$44,583,001$60,227,686



52



Article I – General Government Office of the Governor (Trusteed Programs):


Disaster Funds – Strategy A.1.2

Providing grants for disaster funding to state and local agencies. HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $59.2 million, which is $20.2 million more than the current budget. Com-mittee Substitute SB 1: adds $4.1 million to its baseline budget in fiscal year 2014. HCSSB 1 adds $5 million to its baseline amount. CCR adopted the Senate’s version.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$11,224,889

UB

$39,000,000

$0

$34,623,134 $29,623,134

$29,623,134

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$11,224,889 UB $39,000,000 $0 $33,710,514 $29,623,134

$29,623,134

Criminal Justice – Strategy A.1.3

Providing criminal justice grants to state and local entities, non-profit organizations and inde-pendent school districts for a variety of criminal justice related projects. HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $189.2 million, which is $47.4 million more than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1: adds $1.6 million to its baseline budget. HCSSB 1 stayed the same. CCR adopted the Senate’s version.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$88,679,912 $87,126,995 $71,426,890 $70,426,889 $96,853,289 $92,360,714

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$88,679,912 $87,126,995 $71,426,890 $70,426,889$97,653,289 $96,853,289

$93,160,714 $92,360,714



52





Disaster Funds – Strategy A.1.2

Providing grants for disaster funding to state and local agencies. HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $59.2 million, which is $20.2 million more than the current budget. Com-mittee Substitute SB 1: adds $4.1 million to its baseline budget in fiscal year 2014. HCSSB 1 adds $5 million to its baseline amount. CCR adopted the Senate’s version.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$11,224,889

UB

$39,000,000

$0

$34,623,134 $29,623,134

$29,623,134

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$11,224,889 UB $39,000,000 $0 $33,710,514 $29,623,134

$29,623,134

Criminal Justice – Strategy A.1.3

Providing criminal justice grants to state and local entities, non-profit organizations and inde-pendent school districts for a variety of criminal justice related projects. HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $189.2 million, which is $47.4 million more than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1: adds $1.6 million to its baseline budget. HCSSB 1 stayed the same. CCR adopted the Senate’s version.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$88,679,912 $87,126,995 $71,426,890 $70,426,889 $96,853,289 $92,360,714

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$88,679,912 $87,126,995 $71,426,890 $70,426,889$97,653,289 $96,853,289

$93,160,714 $92,360,714



53





County Essential Services Grants – Strategy A.1.7

Providing grants that fund local governments with unanticipated and extraordinary criminal justice related expenditures. HB 1/SB 1 restored funding of $2.3 million. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: Stayed the same. CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$780,190 $780,190 $0 $0 $1,170,333 $1,170,333

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$780,190 $780,190 $0 $0 $1,170,333 $1,170,333



53






Providing grants that fund local governments with unanticipated and extraordinary criminal justice related expenditures. HB 1/SB 1 restored funding of $2.3 million. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: Stayed the same. CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$780,190 $780,190 $0 $0 $1,170,333 $1,170,333

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$780,190 $780,190 $0 $0 $1,170,333 $1,170,333



54





Economic Development and Tourism – Strategy A.1.9

Providing loans to local economic development corporations that assist local regions and com-munities with economic growth and development through job creation and capital investment. HB 1/SB 1 each proposed $107.8 million, which is $40.8 million more than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1: adds $5.9 million to its baseline budget. $386,668 is reduced from HCSSB 1. CCR adopted the Senate’s version.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$41,422,107

$44,757,106

$43,646,016

$23,340,541

$53,711,128 $53,904,462

$53,709,822 $53,903,156

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$41,422,107 $44,757,106 $43,646,016 $23,340,541 $33,710,514 $29,623,134

$29,623,134

Drug Courts Grants – (Rider 12)

Funding for counties to develop and maintain a drug court. HB 1/SB 1 each proposed $1.5 million, the same as the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: Stayed the same. CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$1,593,500 $1,593,500 $750,000 $750,000 $750,000 $750,000

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$1,593,500 $1,593,500 $750,000 $750,000 $750,000 $750,000



54





Economic Development and Tourism – Strategy A.1.9

Providing loans to local economic development corporations that assist local regions and com-munities with economic growth and development through job creation and capital investment. HB 1/SB 1 each proposed $107.8 million, which is $40.8 million more than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1: adds $5.9 million to its baseline budget. $386,668 is reduced from HCSSB 1. CCR adopted the Senate’s version.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$41,422,107

$44,757,106

$43,646,016

$23,340,541

$53,711,128 $53,904,462

$53,709,822 $53,903,156

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$41,422,107 $44,757,106 $43,646,016 $23,340,541 $33,710,514 $29,623,134

$29,623,134

Drug Courts Grants – (Rider 12)

Funding for counties to develop and maintain a drug court. HB 1/SB 1 each proposed $1.5 million, the same as the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: Stayed the same. CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$1,593,500 $1,593,500 $750,000 $750,000 $750,000 $750,000

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$1,593,500 $1,593,500 $750,000 $750,000 $750,000 $750,000



55



Article I – General Government Historical Commission:


Courthouse – Strategy A.1.3

Providing grants to counties for the renovation and rehabilitation of historic courthouses. Note: Funding reflects a decrease of $22.3 million in GO bond proceeds. HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same $836,302 – used only for staff to administer the Courthouse Preservation program. Committee Substitute SB 1: adds $20 million in Article IX (Contingent Provisions), while HCSSB 1 adds $10 million to the agency bill pattern. HCSSB 1 also includes $29.1 million in Article XI (wish list). Both proposed budgets use general revenue funds. CCR adopted the Sen-ate’s version - only operational funds to administer the program.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$23,163,276 $463,276 $20,463,276 $463,276$10,461,151

$418,151$461,151 $418,151

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$23,163,276 $463,276 $20,463,276 $463,276 $461,151 $418,151

$461,151 $418,151

Development Assistance Programs – Strategy A.2.1

Providing grants to cities and counties that promote economic development through historic preservation. HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $5.7 million, which is $784,170 less than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: adds $786,000 to each base-line amount. CCR adopted $3,495,578 per year.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$4,047,577 $4,047,577 $3,314,248 $3,175,077 $3,245,578 2,852,578

$3,245,577 2,852,577

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$4,047,577 $4,047,577 $3,314,248 $3,175,077$3,245,578 $2,852,578

$3,245,577 $2,852,577



55



Article I – General Government Historical Commission:


Courthouse – Strategy A.1.3

Providing grants to counties for the renovation and rehabilitation of historic courthouses. Note: Funding reflects a decrease of $22.3 million in GO bond proceeds. HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same $836,302 – used only for staff to administer the Courthouse Preservation program. Committee Substitute SB 1: adds $20 million in Article IX (Contingent Provisions), while HCSSB 1 adds $10 million to the agency bill pattern. HCSSB 1 also includes $29.1 million in Article XI (wish list). Both proposed budgets use general revenue funds. CCR adopted the Sen-ate’s version - only operational funds to administer the program.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$23,163,276 $463,276 $20,463,276 $463,276$10,461,151

$418,151$461,151 $418,151

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$23,163,276 $463,276 $20,463,276 $463,276 $461,151 $418,151

$461,151 $418,151

Development Assistance Programs – Strategy A.2.1

Providing grants to cities and counties that promote economic development through historic preservation. HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $5.7 million, which is $784,170 less than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: adds $786,000 to each base-line amount. CCR adopted $3,495,578 per year.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$4,047,577 $4,047,577 $3,314,248 $3,175,077 $3,245,578 2,852,578

$3,245,577 2,852,577

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$4,047,577 $4,047,577 $3,314,248 $3,175,077$3,245,578 $2,852,578

$3,245,577 $2,852,577



56





Aid to Local Libraries – Strategy A.1.2

Provide funding for Loan Star Libraries grants for public library service enhancements, in-cluding the Texas Reads grants for literacy programs and Library System Negotiated Grants for regional library system initiatives. Note: Funding reflects a decrease of $12.5 million in Federal Funds, including $6.4 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) for completion of the Broadband Technology Opportunities Program (BTOP) to expand computing capabilities at local libraries. HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $4.1 million, which is $5.6 million less than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1: adds $23,000 to its baseline budget. HCSSB 1 – Stayed the same. CCR adopted the Senate’s version.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$14,830,763 $14,853,500 $7,937,497 $1,782,600 $3,792,081 $299,611

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$14,830,763 $14,853,500 $7,937,497 $1,782,600$3,815,081 $3,792,081 $299,611



56





Aid to Local Libraries – Strategy A.1.2

Provide funding for Loan Star Libraries grants for public library service enhancements, in-cluding the Texas Reads grants for literacy programs and Library System Negotiated Grants for regional library system initiatives. Note: Funding reflects a decrease of $12.5 million in Federal Funds, including $6.4 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) for completion of the Broadband Technology Opportunities Program (BTOP) to expand computing capabilities at local libraries. HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $4.1 million, which is $5.6 million less than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1: adds $23,000 to its baseline budget. HCSSB 1 – Stayed the same. CCR adopted the Senate’s version.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$14,830,763 $14,853,500 $7,937,497 $1,782,600 $3,792,081 $299,611

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$14,830,763 $14,853,500 $7,937,497 $1,782,600$3,815,081 $3,792,081 $299,611



57



Article I – General Government Secretary of State:


Election/Voter Registration Section – Strategy B.1.5

The Election/Voter Registration section manages funds for the primary election financing program and reimburses counties for postage for voter registration applications. HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $6 million. Note: HB 1/SB 1 appropriates $4.4 million to Help America Vote Act (HAVA). Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: Stayed the same. CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$15,480,319 $675,929 $5,000,000 $1,000,000 $5,000,000 $1,000,000

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$15,480,319 $675,929 $5,000,000 $1,000,000 $5,000,000 $1,000,000

Article II – Health & Human Services Department of Family and Protective Services:


Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Programs - Goal C

Restored CPS funding. HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $64.1 million. This amount is $2.1 million more than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1: adds $10.0 million to its baseline budget. HCSSB 1 adds $41.2 million. CCR adopted $44,042,522 in FY2014 and $44,822,364 in FY2015.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$45,883,571 $45,883,571 $30,997,701 $51,197,735$32,306,917

$54,110,721$31,788,568

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$45,883,571 $45,883,571 $30,997,700 $30,997,701$37,305,470$32,306,917

$36,763,704$31,788,568



57



Article I – General Government Secretary of State:


Election/Voter Registration Section – Strategy B.1.5

The Election/Voter Registration section manages funds for the primary election financing program and reimburses counties for postage for voter registration applications. HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $6 million. Note: HB 1/SB 1 appropriates $4.4 million to Help America Vote Act (HAVA). Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: Stayed the same. CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$15,480,319 $675,929 $5,000,000 $1,000,000 $5,000,000 $1,000,000

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$15,480,319 $675,929 $5,000,000 $1,000,000 $5,000,000 $1,000,000

Article II – Health & Human Services Department of Family and Protective Services:


Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Programs - Goal C

Restored CPS funding. HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $64.1 million. This amount is $2.1 million more than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1: adds $10.0 million to its baseline budget. HCSSB 1 adds $41.2 million. CCR adopted $44,042,522 in FY2014 and $44,822,364 in FY2015.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$45,883,571 $45,883,571 $30,997,701 $51,197,735$32,306,917

$54,110,721$31,788,568

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$45,883,571 $45,883,571 $30,997,700 $30,997,701$37,305,470$32,306,917

$36,763,704$31,788,568



58



Article II – Health & Human Services Department of State Health Services:


Mental Health SVCS Adults – Strategy B.2.1

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $551.3 million. This amount is $1.8 mil-lion less than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1: adds $106 million to its baseline budget. HCSSB 1 adds $108.5 million. CCR adopted $331,040,750 in FY2014 and $333,958,331 in FY2015.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$279,201,869 $285,668,473 $270,615,444 $282,513,627$327,823,897$276,479,775

$332,045,366$274,874,548

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$279,201,869 $285,668,473 $270,615,444 $282,513,627 $326,606,827$276,479,775

$330,828,296$274,874,548

Mental Health SVCS Children - Strategy B.2.2

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $125.5 million. This amount is $28 million less than the current budget. Committee Substitute, SB 1: adds $86 million to its baseline bud-get. HCSSB 1 adds $83.5 million. CCR adopted $90,787,682 in FY2014 and $110,189,122 in FY2015.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$66,307,943 $66,238,093 $75,537,904 $77,928,014 $97,270,972$62,911,006

$111,758,977$62,584,548

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$66,307,943 $66,238,093 $75,537,904 $77,928,014$98,546,522$62,911,006

$113,034,527$62,584,548



58





Mental Health SVCS Adults – Strategy B.2.1

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $551.3 million. This amount is $1.8 mil-lion less than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1: adds $106 million to its baseline budget. HCSSB 1 adds $108.5 million. CCR adopted $331,040,750 in FY2014 and $333,958,331 in FY2015.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$279,201,869 $285,668,473 $270,615,444 $282,513,627$327,823,897$276,479,775

$332,045,366$274,874,548

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$279,201,869 $285,668,473 $270,615,444 $282,513,627 $326,606,827$276,479,775

$330,828,296$274,874,548

Mental Health SVCS Children - Strategy B.2.2

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $125.5 million. This amount is $28 million less than the current budget. Committee Substitute, SB 1: adds $86 million to its baseline bud-get. HCSSB 1 adds $83.5 million. CCR adopted $90,787,682 in FY2014 and $110,189,122 in FY2015.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$66,307,943 $66,238,093 $75,537,904 $77,928,014 $97,270,972$62,911,006

$111,758,977$62,584,548

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$66,307,943 $66,238,093 $75,537,904 $77,928,014$98,546,522$62,911,006

$113,034,527$62,584,548



59





Mental Health Crisis SVCS – Strategy B.2.3

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $168.1 million. This amount is $3.1 million more than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1: adds $40 million to its baseline bud-get. HCSSB 1 adds $50 million. CCR adopted $106,249,880 in FY2014 and $114,932,744 in FY2015.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$83,284,301 $82,284,301 $82,494,196 $82,495,654$109,192,630$84,192,630

$108,939,744$83,939,744

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$83,284,301 $82,284,301 $82,494,196 $82,495,654 $104,192,630$84,192,630

$103,939,744$83,939,744

North-Star Behavioral Health - Strategy B.2.4

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $210.1 million. This amount is $15.1 million less than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1: adds $16.5 million to its baseline bud-get. HCSSB 1 adds $18.4 million. CCR adopted $113,398,422 in FY2014 and $113,194,896 in FY2015.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$99,671,496 $99,428,131 $107,538,940 $117,686,025 $113,364,249$105,059,862

$115,244,843$105,109,455

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$99,671,496 $99,428,131 $107,538,940 $117,686,025$112,332,699$105,059,862

$114,291,374$105,109,455

Indigent Health Care UTMB Health - Strategy B.3.2

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $9.8 million. This amount is $1.7 million less than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: Stayed the same. CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$10,000,000 $10,000,000 $5,750,000 $5,750,000 $5,411,953 $4,397,812

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$10,000,000 $10,000,000 $5,750,000 $5,750,000 $5,411,953 $4,397,812



59





Mental Health Crisis SVCS – Strategy B.2.3

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $168.1 million. This amount is $3.1 million more than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1: adds $40 million to its baseline bud-get. HCSSB 1 adds $50 million. CCR adopted $106,249,880 in FY2014 and $114,932,744 in FY2015.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$83,284,301 $82,284,301 $82,494,196 $82,495,654$109,192,630$84,192,630

$108,939,744$83,939,744

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$83,284,301 $82,284,301 $82,494,196 $82,495,654 $104,192,630$84,192,630

$103,939,744$83,939,744

North-Star Behavioral Health - Strategy B.2.4

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $210.1 million. This amount is $15.1 million less than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1: adds $16.5 million to its baseline bud-get. HCSSB 1 adds $18.4 million. CCR adopted $113,398,422 in FY2014 and $113,194,896 in FY2015.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$99,671,496 $99,428,131 $107,538,940 $117,686,025 $113,364,249$105,059,862

$115,244,843$105,109,455

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$99,671,496 $99,428,131 $107,538,940 $117,686,025$112,332,699$105,059,862

$114,291,374$105,109,455

Indigent Health Care UTMB Health - Strategy B.3.2

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $9.8 million. This amount is $1.7 million less than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: Stayed the same. CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$10,000,000 $10,000,000 $5,750,000 $5,750,000 $5,411,953 $4,397,812

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$10,000,000 $10,000,000 $5,750,000 $5,750,000 $5,411,953 $4,397,812



60





County Indigent Health Care - Strategy B.3.3

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $4.4 million. This amount is $51,294 less than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: Stayed the same. CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$7,198,442 $7,198,537 $2,201,880 $2,201,879 $2,176,232 $2,176,233

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$7,198,442 $7,198,537 $2,201,880 $2,201,879 $2,176,232 $2,176,233


Sources:Conference Committee Report on SB 1 (CCR), May 26, 2013CSSB 1, March 13, 2013HB 1, Introduced version, January 15, 2013SB 1, Introduced version, January 15, 2013 82nd General Appropriations Act - 2012-13 (Fiscal Size-up, September 12, 2011)Notes – from LBB, Summary of Legislative Budget Estimates House/Senate (2014-15 Biennium)

60





County Indigent Health Care - Strategy B.3.3

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $4.4 million. This amount is $51,294 less than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: Stayed the same. CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$7,198,442 $7,198,537 $2,201,880 $2,201,879 $2,176,232 $2,176,233

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$7,198,442 $7,198,537 $2,201,880 $2,201,879 $2,176,232 $2,176,233


Sources:Conference Committee Report on SB 1 (CCR), May 26, 2013CSSB 1, March 13, 2013HB 1, Introduced version, January 15, 2013SB 1, Introduced version, January 15, 2013 82nd General Appropriations Act - 2012-13 (Fiscal Size-up, September 12, 2011)Notes – from LBB, Summary of Legislative Budget Estimates House/Senate (2014-15 Biennium)

61





EMS and Trauma Care System - Strategy B.3.1

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $137.8 million. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: adds $3.6 million to both baseline amounts. CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$86,647,702 $86,647,901 $68,903,513 $68,903,514$70,649,265$68,903,514

$70,770,26468,903,513

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$86,647,702 $86,647,901 $68,903,513 $68,903,514$70,649,265$68,903,514

$70,770,264$68,903,513

Mental Health State Hospitals - Strategy C.1.3

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $809.5 million. This is $26.1 million more than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1: adds $18.3 million to its baseline budget. HCSSB 1 adds $11 million. CCR adopted $420,896,736 in FY2014 and $414,899,705 in FY2015.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$381,931,305 $385,841,872 $394,061,469 $389,339,514$411,068,699$405,428,324

$409,501,104$404,113,989

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$381,931,305 $385,841,872 $394,061,469 $389,339,514$414,776,752$405,428,324

$413,109,157$404,113,989

Mental Health Community Hospitals - Strategy C.2.1

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $150.7 million. This is $43.3 million more than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1: Stayed the same. HCSSB 1 adds $2.4 mil-lion. CCR adopted the House’s version.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$30,118,077 $30,118,077 $53,703,096 $53,703,096$76,890,052$75,690,052

$76,250,921$75,050,921

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$30,118,077 $30,118,077 $53,703,096 $53,703,096 $75,690,052 $75,050,921



61





EMS and Trauma Care System - Strategy B.3.1

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $137.8 million. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: adds $3.6 million to both baseline amounts. CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$86,647,702 $86,647,901 $68,903,513 $68,903,514$70,649,265$68,903,514

$70,770,26468,903,513

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$86,647,702 $86,647,901 $68,903,513 $68,903,514$70,649,265$68,903,514

$70,770,264$68,903,513

Mental Health State Hospitals - Strategy C.1.3

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $809.5 million. This is $26.1 million more than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1: adds $18.3 million to its baseline budget. HCSSB 1 adds $11 million. CCR adopted $420,896,736 in FY2014 and $414,899,705 in FY2015.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$381,931,305 $385,841,872 $394,061,469 $389,339,514$411,068,699$405,428,324

$409,501,104$404,113,989

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$381,931,305 $385,841,872 $394,061,469 $389,339,514$414,776,752$405,428,324

$413,109,157$404,113,989

Mental Health Community Hospitals - Strategy C.2.1

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $150.7 million. This is $43.3 million more than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1: Stayed the same. HCSSB 1 adds $2.4 mil-lion. CCR adopted the House’s version.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$30,118,077 $30,118,077 $53,703,096 $53,703,096$76,890,052$75,690,052

$76,250,921$75,050,921

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$30,118,077 $30,118,077 $53,703,096 $53,703,096 $75,690,052 $75,050,921



62



Article III – Higher Education Texas A&M Forest Services:


Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program - VFDAP (Wildfire and Emergency Program) - Strategy A.1.1

HB 1 proposed budget amount is $50.3 million. This is $122.3 million less than the current bud-get. SB 1 proposed budget is $77.5 million, which is $95.1 million less than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1: adds $10.1 million to the baseline budget, additional $23.5 million in Article XI (wish list). HCSSB 1 adds $20 million, additional $33 million in Article XI (wish list). CCR adopted $45,005,351 in FY2014 and $45,038,351 in FY2015.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$42,918,910 $42,918,910 $146,798,063 $25,798,063$35,155,351$25,125,351

$35,188,351$25,125,351

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$42,918,910 $42,918,910 $146,798,063 $25,798,063$43,755,351$38,725,351

$43,788,351$38,725,351



62



Article III – Higher Education Texas A&M Forest Services:


Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program - VFDAP (Wildfire and Emergency Program) - Strategy A.1.1

HB 1 proposed budget amount is $50.3 million. This is $122.3 million less than the current bud-get. SB 1 proposed budget is $77.5 million, which is $95.1 million less than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1: adds $10.1 million to the baseline budget, additional $23.5 million in Article XI (wish list). HCSSB 1 adds $20 million, additional $33 million in Article XI (wish list). CCR adopted $45,005,351 in FY2014 and $45,038,351 in FY2015.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$42,918,910 $42,918,910 $146,798,063 $25,798,063$35,155,351$25,125,351

$35,188,351$25,125,351

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$42,918,910 $42,918,910 $146,798,063 $25,798,063$43,755,351$38,725,351

$43,788,351$38,725,351



63



Article IV – Judiciary Office of Court Administration, Texas Judicial Council:


Indigent DefenseCommission -Strategy D.1.1

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $62.2 million, which is the same as the cur-rent budget. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: adds $16.7 million to both baseline amounts. Full funding of $135.5 million in Article XI (wish list) in both bills. CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$29,614,045 $29,065,130 $29,774,951 $32,512,893$48,449,904$31,143,922

$30,546,228$31,143,922

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$29,614,045 $29,065,130 $29,774,951 $32,512,893$48,449,904$31,143,922

$30,546,228$31,143,922



63



Article IV – Judiciary Office of Court Administration, Texas Judicial Council:


Indigent DefenseCommission -Strategy D.1.1

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $62.2 million, which is the same as the cur-rent budget. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: adds $16.7 million to both baseline amounts. Full funding of $135.5 million in Article XI (wish list) in both bills. CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$29,614,045 $29,065,130 $29,774,951 $32,512,893$48,449,904$31,143,922

$30,546,228$31,143,922

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$29,614,045 $29,065,130 $29,774,951 $32,512,893$48,449,904$31,143,922

$30,546,228$31,143,922



64



Article IV Judiciary Judiciary Section, Comptroller’s Department:


Assistant Prosecutor Longevity Reimbursement to Counties (Gov. Code 41.255(d) Strategy D.1.1

These funds are used to supplement the pay of assistant district attorneys that have at least four years of lifetime services credit as an assistant prosecutor. HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $8.1 million, which is $570,000 more than the current budget. CCR adopted the same figures.

Note: Felony prosecutors – payments shall not exceed $11,083 per year in single-county districts with populations over 50,000; or $22,500 per year in districts with populations over 50,000; or $27,500 per year in districts with populations under 50,000 for those district attorneys, criminal district attorneys and county attorneys.

Juror Pay (Judiciary Section, Comptroller’s Dept.) -Strategy D.1.8

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $21.8 million. This amount is $3.4 million more than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: Stayed the same. CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$10,802,000 $10,802,000 $9,181,700 $9,181,700 $10,881,700 $10,881,700

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$10,802,000 $10,802,000 $9,181,700 $9,181,700 $10,881,700 $10,881,700



64



Article IV Judiciary Judiciary Section, Comptroller’s Department:


Assistant Prosecutor Longevity Reimbursement to Counties (Gov. Code 41.255(d) Strategy D.1.1

These funds are used to supplement the pay of assistant district attorneys that have at least four years of lifetime services credit as an assistant prosecutor. HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $8.1 million, which is $570,000 more than the current budget. CCR adopted the same figures.

Note: Felony prosecutors – payments shall not exceed $11,083 per year in single-county districts with populations over 50,000; or $22,500 per year in districts with populations over 50,000; or $27,500 per year in districts with populations under 50,000 for those district attorneys, criminal district attorneys and county attorneys.

Juror Pay (Judiciary Section, Comptroller’s Dept.) -Strategy D.1.8

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $21.8 million. This amount is $3.4 million more than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: Stayed the same. CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$10,802,000 $10,802,000 $9,181,700 $9,181,700 $10,881,700 $10,881,700

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$10,802,000 $10,802,000 $9,181,700 $9,181,700 $10,881,700 $10,881,700



65



Article IV Judiciary Special Provisions - Judiciary Section, Comptroller’s Department



CCR adopted the following provision: $17.4 million per year to fund the judicial salary increase which includes benefits. This represents a 12% salary increase for all state judges.

Note: This particular appropriation to state judges will require counties to review compensation for all district and statutory county judges prior to September 1, 2013.



65



Article IV Judiciary Special Provisions - Judiciary Section, Comptroller’s Department



CCR adopted the following provision: $17.4 million per year to fund the judicial salary increase which includes benefits. This represents a 12% salary increase for all state judges.

Note: This particular appropriation to state judges will require counties to review compensation for all district and statutory county judges prior to September 1, 2013.



66



Article IV Judiciary Court of Criminal Appeals:


Judicial Education Goal B

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $17.2 million, which is the same as the cur-rent budget. Funds from the GR Dedicated – Judicial & Court Personnel Training Fund No. 540 are partially allocated among the various riders below. Committee Substitute, SB 1/HCSSB 1: Added $1.37 million to Goal B. CCR adopted $18,377,368 for the biennium.

Judicial and Court Personnel TrainingGovt. Code 74.025 (Rider 7)

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $850,000 per year. The amount budgeted per fiscal year is designated for the Court of Criminal Appeals to contract with training entities providing for the training and continuing legal education of the clerks and other court person-nel of the appellate courts, district courts, county courts at law, county courts, justice courts, and municipal courts. This is the same amount as in the current budget. CCR adopted the same figures.

Judicial Education Rider 2 (a).

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $807,500 per year. The amount budgeted per fiscal year is for the continuing legal education of judges of county courts performing judicial functions. Committee Substitute, SB 1/ HB 1: Stayed the same. HCSSB 1 adds $344,000. CCR adopted the same figures.

Judicial Education Rider 2 (b).

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $608,722 for the 2014-15 biennium. The amount budgeted is for administrative oversight functions. Committee Substitute, SB 1: adds $400,000 to this rider. CCR adopted $951,322 for the biennium.

Technical Assistance for Prosecutors & Criminal Defense Attorneys Rider 3 (a).

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $1.9 million for the 2014-15 biennium. The amount budgeted is to contract with statewide professional associations of prosecuting attorneys to provide continuing legal education courses, programs, and technical assistance projects for prosecutors and prosecutor office personnel. Committee Substitute, SB 1/HCSSB 1: Stayed the same. CCR adopted $2,507,500 for the biennium.



66





Judicial Education Goal B

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $17.2 million, which is the same as the cur-rent budget. Funds from the GR Dedicated – Judicial & Court Personnel Training Fund No. 540 are partially allocated among the various riders below. Committee Substitute, SB 1/HCSSB 1: Added $1.37 million to Goal B. CCR adopted $18,377,368 for the biennium.

Judicial and Court Personnel TrainingGovt. Code 74.025 (Rider 7)

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $850,000 per year. The amount budgeted per fiscal year is designated for the Court of Criminal Appeals to contract with training entities providing for the training and continuing legal education of the clerks and other court person-nel of the appellate courts, district courts, county courts at law, county courts, justice courts, and municipal courts. This is the same amount as in the current budget. CCR adopted the same figures.

Judicial Education Rider 2 (a).

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $807,500 per year. The amount budgeted per fiscal year is for the continuing legal education of judges of county courts performing judicial functions. Committee Substitute, SB 1/ HB 1: Stayed the same. HCSSB 1 adds $344,000. CCR adopted the same figures.

Judicial Education Rider 2 (b).

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $608,722 for the 2014-15 biennium. The amount budgeted is for administrative oversight functions. Committee Substitute, SB 1: adds $400,000 to this rider. CCR adopted $951,322 for the biennium.

Technical Assistance for Prosecutors & Criminal Defense Attorneys Rider 3 (a).

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $1.9 million for the 2014-15 biennium. The amount budgeted is to contract with statewide professional associations of prosecuting attorneys to provide continuing legal education courses, programs, and technical assistance projects for prosecutors and prosecutor office personnel. Committee Substitute, SB 1/HCSSB 1: Stayed the same. CCR adopted $2,507,500 for the biennium.



67





Prosecutors & Criminal Defense Attorneys Rider 3 (b).

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $2.2 million for the 2014-15 biennium. The amount budgeted is to contract with a statewide professional association of criminal defense attorneys and other entities that provide continuing legal education courses, programs and tech-nical assistance projects for criminal defense attorneys who regularly represent indigent defen-dants in criminal matters. Committee Substitute, SB 1/HCSSB 1: Stayed the same. CCR adopted $2,210,000 for the biennium.

Article V – Public Safety & Criminal Justice Department of Criminal Justice:


Basic Supervision Strategy A.1.1

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $155.6 million. This amount is $64.8 million less than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: $5.8 million is reduced in both baseline amounts. CCR adopted $110,159,693 in FY20114 and $113,135,151 in FY2015.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$111,443,958 $112,680,413 $110,355,121 $109,969,834 $75,020,875$77,744,349

$74,796,333$77,825,614

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$111,443,958 $112,680,413 $110,355,121 $109,969,834$75,020,875$77,744,349

$74,796,333$77,825,614



67





Prosecutors & Criminal Defense Attorneys Rider 3 (b).

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $2.2 million for the 2014-15 biennium. The amount budgeted is to contract with a statewide professional association of criminal defense attorneys and other entities that provide continuing legal education courses, programs and tech-nical assistance projects for criminal defense attorneys who regularly represent indigent defen-dants in criminal matters. Committee Substitute, SB 1/HCSSB 1: Stayed the same. CCR adopted $2,210,000 for the biennium.



Basic Supervision Strategy A.1.1

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $155.6 million. This amount is $64.8 million less than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: $5.8 million is reduced in both baseline amounts. CCR adopted $110,159,693 in FY20114 and $113,135,151 in FY2015.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$111,443,958 $112,680,413 $110,355,121 $109,969,834 $75,020,875$77,744,349

$74,796,333$77,825,614

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$111,443,958 $112,680,413 $110,355,121 $109,969,834$75,020,875$77,744,349

$74,796,333$77,825,614



68





Prison Diversions (Treatment Alter-natives, Community Corrections) – Goal A

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $556 million. This amount is $485,693 less than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1: adds $24.2 million to its baseline budget. HCSSB 1 adds $43 million. CCR adopted $297,711,932 in FY2014 and $301,087,389 in FY2015.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$280,412,879 $286,024,332 $277,236,527 $279,251,242$297,801,860$277,960,406

$301,327,965$278,041,670

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$280,412,879 $286,024,332 $277,236,527 $279,251,242$290,236,932$277,960,406

$290,012,389$278,041,670

Academic/Vocational Training – Strategy C.2.2

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same $3.8 million. This amount is $1.1 million more than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: Stayed the same. CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$2,332,715 $2,332,714 $1,363,883 $1,363,883 $1,919,044 $1,919,044

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$2,332,715 $2,332,714 $1,363,883 $1,363,883 $1,919,044 $1,919,044



68





Prison Diversions (Treatment Alter-natives, Community Corrections) – Goal A

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $556 million. This amount is $485,693 less than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1: adds $24.2 million to its baseline budget. HCSSB 1 adds $43 million. CCR adopted $297,711,932 in FY2014 and $301,087,389 in FY2015.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$280,412,879 $286,024,332 $277,236,527 $279,251,242$297,801,860$277,960,406

$301,327,965$278,041,670

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$280,412,879 $286,024,332 $277,236,527 $279,251,242$290,236,932$277,960,406

$290,012,389$278,041,670

Academic/Vocational Training – Strategy C.2.2

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same $3.8 million. This amount is $1.1 million more than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: Stayed the same. CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$2,332,715 $2,332,714 $1,363,883 $1,363,883 $1,919,044 $1,919,044

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$2,332,715 $2,332,714 $1,363,883 $1,363,883 $1,919,044 $1,919,044



69





Project Reintegration of Offenders (RIO) – Strategy C.2.3

Zero funding for 2014-15.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$5,043,000 $5,157,308 $0 $0 $0 $0

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$5,043,000 $5,157,308 $0 $0 $0 $0

In-Prison Treatment - Strategy C.2.5

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $69.7 million, which is $218,682 less than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: Stayed the same. CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

N/A N/A $34,943,615 $34,943,615 $34,834,274 $34,834,274

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

N/A N/A $34,943,615 $34,943,615 $34,834,274 $34,834,274



69





Project Reintegration of Offenders (RIO) – Strategy C.2.3

Zero funding for 2014-15.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$5,043,000 $5,157,308 $0 $0 $0 $0

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$5,043,000 $5,157,308 $0 $0 $0 $0

In-Prison Treatment - Strategy C.2.5

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $69.7 million, which is $218,682 less than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: Stayed the same. CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

N/A N/A $34,943,615 $34,943,615 $34,834,274 $34,834,274

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

N/A N/A $34,943,615 $34,943,615 $34,834,274 $34,834,274



70


Article V – Public Safety & Criminal Justice Commission on Jail Standards:


Standards – Goal A

Effective Jail Standards: HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $1.1 million. This amount is $55,505 less than the current budget. CCR adopted the same figures.




Operate Parole System – Goal F

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $321.5 million. This amount is $9.9 million more than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: adds $10.0 million to both baseline amounts. CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$149,530,590 $159,772,426 $155,561,513 $156,058,081 $165,131,533$159,755,695

$166,393,286$161,790,664

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$149,530,590 $159,772,426 $155,561,513 $156,058,081$165,131,533$159,755,695

$166,393,286$161,790,664



70


Article V – Public Safety & Criminal Justice Commission on Jail Standards:


Standards – Goal A

Effective Jail Standards: HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $1.1 million. This amount is $55,505 less than the current budget. CCR adopted the same figures.




Operate Parole System – Goal F

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $321.5 million. This amount is $9.9 million more than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: adds $10.0 million to both baseline amounts. CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$149,530,590 $159,772,426 $155,561,513 $156,058,081 $165,131,533$159,755,695

$166,393,286$161,790,664

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$149,530,590 $159,772,426 $155,561,513 $156,058,081$165,131,533$159,755,695

$166,393,286$161,790,664



71



Article V – Public Safety & Criminal Justice Juvenile Probation Commission (JPC) and Juvenile Justice Department (JJD):


Juvenile Justice Alternative Education Programs – Strategy A.1.6

Newly formed agency Texas Juvenile Justice Department (JJD) budget is combined with Juvenile Probation Commission (JPC) budget for fiscal years 2012-13. JPC received $4.2 million for fiscal year 2012 only, while JJD was funded $12.8 million under this same strategy. Note: Funding for JJD includes a reduction of $76.1 million in All Funds ($63.5 million in General Revenue Funds). These reductions are primarily related to declining LBB staff projected populations of juvenile offenders in state facilities. HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $17.2 million. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: Stayed the same. Senate also added $3 million for the Starr County Juvenile Justice Center and $11.9 million for the diversion initiative program in Article XI (wish list). CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$11,476,023 $11,534,404 $8,570,701 $8,614,302 $8,614,302 $8,614,302

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$11,476,023 $11,534,404 $8,570,701 $8,614,302 $8,614,302 $8,614,302



71





Juvenile Justice Alternative Education Programs – Strategy A.1.6

Newly formed agency Texas Juvenile Justice Department (JJD) budget is combined with Juvenile Probation Commission (JPC) budget for fiscal years 2012-13. JPC received $4.2 million for fiscal year 2012 only, while JJD was funded $12.8 million under this same strategy. Note: Funding for JJD includes a reduction of $76.1 million in All Funds ($63.5 million in General Revenue Funds). These reductions are primarily related to declining LBB staff projected populations of juvenile offenders in state facilities. HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $17.2 million. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: Stayed the same. Senate also added $3 million for the Starr County Juvenile Justice Center and $11.9 million for the diversion initiative program in Article XI (wish list). CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$11,476,023 $11,534,404 $8,570,701 $8,614,302 $8,614,302 $8,614,302

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$11,476,023 $11,534,404 $8,570,701 $8,614,302 $8,614,302 $8,614,302



72


Article VI – Natural Resources Department of Agriculture:


Texans Feeding Texans (Home Delivered Meal Grant Program) – Strategy D.2.1

Funding counties’ Meal on Wheels programs and various other nonprofit organizations that pro-vide daily meals to the elderly and disabled. No significant reduction to this program, approxi-mately $9 million per fiscal year. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: Stayed the same. CCR adopted the same figures.




Harris County Leadership Academy (formerly known as Harris County Boot Camp) Rider 30

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $2 million. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: Stayed the same. CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$1,000,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$1,000,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000



72


Article VI – Natural Resources Department of Agriculture:


Texans Feeding Texans (Home Delivered Meal Grant Program) – Strategy D.2.1

Funding counties’ Meal on Wheels programs and various other nonprofit organizations that pro-vide daily meals to the elderly and disabled. No significant reduction to this program, approxi-mately $9 million per fiscal year. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: Stayed the same. CCR adopted the same figures.




Harris County Leadership Academy (formerly known as Harris County Boot Camp) Rider 30

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $2 million. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: Stayed the same. CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$1,000,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$1,000,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 $1,000,000



73



Article VI – Natural Resources Commission on Environmental Quality:


Air Quality Assessment and Planning – Rider 25 (from Strategy A.1.1)

Provides funding for the Low Income Vehicle Repair, Replacement and Retrofit (LIRAP) for air quality grants to local governments - HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $11.2 million. Also, $1.25 million is for counties to implement local initiatives projects to reduce air emissions, including but not limited to the following: the expansion of AirCheck Texas Repair and Replacement Assistance Program, TCEQ Smoking Vehicle program, and the enhancement of transportation system improvements. CCR adopted $14,079,280 to fund LIRAP for the biennium.

Texas Emission Reduction Plan (TERP) Grants & Administration – Rider 21

Provides financial incentives to eligible individuals, businesses or local governments to reduce emissions from polluting vehicles and equipment - HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $130.3 million. This amount is $16 million more than the current budget. Additional funds in Article XI (wish list) in both bills: Senate $88.4 million and House $139.6 million. CCR adopted $77,596,164 for both years.



73



Article VI – Natural Resources Commission on Environmental Quality:


Air Quality Assessment and Planning – Rider 25 (from Strategy A.1.1)

Provides funding for the Low Income Vehicle Repair, Replacement and Retrofit (LIRAP) for air quality grants to local governments - HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $11.2 million. Also, $1.25 million is for counties to implement local initiatives projects to reduce air emissions, including but not limited to the following: the expansion of AirCheck Texas Repair and Replacement Assistance Program, TCEQ Smoking Vehicle program, and the enhancement of transportation system improvements. CCR adopted $14,079,280 to fund LIRAP for the biennium.

Texas Emission Reduction Plan (TERP) Grants & Administration – Rider 21

Provides financial incentives to eligible individuals, businesses or local governments to reduce emissions from polluting vehicles and equipment - HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $130.3 million. This amount is $16 million more than the current budget. Additional funds in Article XI (wish list) in both bills: Senate $88.4 million and House $139.6 million. CCR adopted $77,596,164 for both years.



74


Soil and Water Conservation Board:


Flood Control Dam Grant Program (Rider 8)

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $4 million. Committee Substitute SB 1/ HCSSB 1: Adds $10 million to its baseline budget. CCR adopted $14. 8 million.


Article VI – Natural Resources Parks and Wildlife Department:


Local Park, Boating Access and Other Grants – Strategy B.2.1

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $868,960, which is $12,500 less than the current budget. Note: A decrease of $4.4 million in Federal Funds for completed local park acquisition and development, and completed local boat ramp and recreational trail grant proj-ects. Committee Substitute SB 1: Stayed the same. HCSSB 1 adds $1 million. Both bills include additional funding of $15.5 million to restore local park funding in Article XI (wish list). CCR adopted $8,184,480 per year.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$20,857,570 $15,354,860 $434,480 $446,980 $934,480$434,480

$934,480$434,480

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$20,857,570 $15,354,860 $434,480 $446,980 $434,480 $434,480



74


Soil and Water Conservation Board:


Flood Control Dam Grant Program (Rider 8)

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $4 million. Committee Substitute SB 1/ HCSSB 1: Adds $10 million to its baseline budget. CCR adopted $14. 8 million.


Article VI – Natural Resources Parks and Wildlife Department:


Local Park, Boating Access and Other Grants – Strategy B.2.1

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $868,960, which is $12,500 less than the current budget. Note: A decrease of $4.4 million in Federal Funds for completed local park acquisition and development, and completed local boat ramp and recreational trail grant proj-ects. Committee Substitute SB 1: Stayed the same. HCSSB 1 adds $1 million. Both bills include additional funding of $15.5 million to restore local park funding in Article XI (wish list). CCR adopted $8,184,480 per year.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$20,857,570 $15,354,860 $434,480 $446,980 $934,480$434,480

$934,480$434,480

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$20,857,570 $15,354,860 $434,480 $446,980 $434,480 $434,480



75



Article VII – Business and Economic Development Department of Motor Vehicles:


Automobile Burglary and Theft Grants – Strategy B.2.1

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $29.8 million, which is $15,059 less than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1: adds $3.0 million to its baseline budget. HCSSB 1 stayed the same. CCR adopted the House’s version.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$15,214,355 $0 $14,911,870 $14,911,870$14,904,341 $14,904,340

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$15,214,355 $0 $14,911,870 $14,911,870$16,394,775$14,904,341

$16,394,774$14,904,340



75



Article VII – Business and Economic Development Department of Motor Vehicles:


Automobile Burglary and Theft Grants – Strategy B.2.1

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $29.8 million, which is $15,059 less than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1: adds $3.0 million to its baseline budget. HCSSB 1 stayed the same. CCR adopted the House’s version.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$15,214,355 $0 $14,911,870 $14,911,870$14,904,341 $14,904,340

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$15,214,355 $0 $14,911,870 $14,911,870$16,394,775$14,904,341

$16,394,774$14,904,340



76



Article VII – Business and Economic Development Workforce Commission:


Project Reintegration of Offenders (RIO) – Strategy A.1.7

Project RIO provides a link between education, training and employment for participants during incarceration and employment, training and education after release. Zero funding for 2014-15.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$10,761,725 $10,764,151 $0 $0 $0 $0

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$10,761,725 $10,764,151 $0 $0 $0 $0



76



Article VII – Business and Economic Development Workforce Commission:


Project Reintegration of Offenders (RIO) – Strategy A.1.7

Project RIO provides a link between education, training and employment for participants during incarceration and employment, training and education after release. Zero funding for 2014-15.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$10,761,725 $10,764,151 $0 $0 $0 $0

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$10,761,725 $10,764,151 $0 $0 $0 $0



77



Article VII – Business and Economic Development Department of Transportation:


Planning, Design, and Management - Strategy A.1.1

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $717.7 million, which is $111.1 million more than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: Stayed the same. CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$219,220,658 $134,106,369 $308,072,136 $298,493,553 $358,442,421 $359,259,513

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$219,220,658 $134,106,369 $308,072,136 $298,493,553 $358,442,421 $359,259,513

Right of Way Acquisition – Strategy A.1.3

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $717.5 million, which is $291 million less than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1: Stayed the same. HCSSB 1 adds $30 million in FY 2015. CCR adopted the House’s version.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$344,807,796 $196,132,979 $589,889,339 $418,715,132 $512,445,837$235,055,686$205,055,686

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$344,807,796 $196,132,979 $589,889,339 $418,715,132 $512,445,837 $205,055,686



77



Article VII – Business and Economic Development Department of Transportation:


Planning, Design, and Management - Strategy A.1.1

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $717.7 million, which is $111.1 million more than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1/HCSSB 1: Stayed the same. CCR adopted the same figures.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$219,220,658 $134,106,369 $308,072,136 $298,493,553 $358,442,421 $359,259,513

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$219,220,658 $134,106,369 $308,072,136 $298,493,553 $358,442,421 $359,259,513

Right of Way Acquisition – Strategy A.1.3

HB 1/SB 1 proposed budget amounts are the same, $717.5 million, which is $291 million less than the current budget. Committee Substitute SB 1: Stayed the same. HCSSB 1 adds $30 million in FY 2015. CCR adopted the House’s version.

House 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$344,807,796 $196,132,979 $589,889,339 $418,715,132 $512,445,837$235,055,686$205,055,686

Senate 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

$344,807,796 $196,132,979 $589,889,339 $418,715,132 $512,445,837 $205,055,686



78


78


79



ANALYSIS OF ADOPTED

COUNTY BILLS BY SUBJECT (CALLED SESSIONS)

79



ANALYSIS OF ADOPTED

COUNTY BILLS BY SUBJECT (CALLED SESSIONS)

80


ANALYSIS OF ADOPTED COUNTY BILLS BY SUBJECT(CALLED SESSIONS)

SECOND CALLED SESSION JUVENILE JUSTICE

SB 2 by Huffman. Relating to the punishment for a capital felony committed by an individual younger than 18 years of age. Revises the Penal Code to bring punishment standards in line with a recent U.S. Supreme court ruling related to 17 year old

offenders convicted of a capital felony. Provides that an individual convicted of a capital felony who was younger than 18 years of age at the time of the offense must be punished with a sentence of life in prison with the possibility of parole. Effective 7/22/2013.

THIRD CALLED SESSION TRANSPORTATION

HB 1 by Pickett. Relating to transportation funding, expenditures, and finance and the preservation of a sufficient balance in the economic stabilization fund; making an appropriation. Creates a select committee appointed by the speaker of the house and the lieutenant governor to make a determination for a minimum amount to remain in the rainy day fund each biennium. The amount recommended by the select committee will require a majority vote of both chambers. Directs the Texas Department of Transportation to identify at least $100 million in savings, including savings in administration, for the purpose of reducing the principal and interest on bonds and other public securities issued by the Transportation Commission. The bill also authorizes the Commission to use money from the Texas Mobility Fund for certain port security and port transportation projects. HB 1 serves as the enabling legislation for SJR 1. Effective upon voter approval of SJR 1.

SJR 1 by Nichols. Proposing a constitutional amendment to provide for the transfer of certain general revenue to the economic stabilization fund and to the state highway fund and for the dedication of the revenue transferred to the state highway fund. Proposes a constitutional amendment that requires the comptroller to redirect one-half of the oil and natural gas production tax revenue from the rainy day fund to the state highway fund. These monies, estimated to be about $1.7 billion for the 2015-2016 biennium, transferred into the state highway fund may only be used for constructing, maintaining, and acquiring rights-of-way for public roadways other than toll roads. The resolution also directs the legislature to provide a procedure for adjusting the amounts transferred to each fund. Election Date 11/4/2014.

80


ANALYSIS OF ADOPTED COUNTY BILLS BY SUBJECT(CALLED SESSIONS)

SECOND CALLED SESSION JUVENILE JUSTICE

SB 2 by Huffman. Relating to the punishment for a capital felony committed by an individual younger than 18 years of age. Revises the Penal Code to bring punishment standards in line with a recent U.S. Supreme court ruling related to 17 year old

offenders convicted of a capital felony. Provides that an individual convicted of a capital felony who was younger than 18 years of age at the time of the offense must be punished with a sentence of life in prison with the possibility of parole. Effective 7/22/2013.

THIRD CALLED SESSION TRANSPORTATION

HB 1 by Pickett. Relating to transportation funding, expenditures, and finance and the preservation of a sufficient balance in the economic stabilization fund; making an appropriation. Creates a select committee appointed by the speaker of the house and the lieutenant governor to make a determination for a minimum amount to remain in the rainy day fund each biennium. The amount recommended by the select committee will require a majority vote of both chambers. Directs the Texas Department of Transportation to identify at least $100 million in savings, including savings in administration, for the purpose of reducing the principal and interest on bonds and other public securities issued by the Transportation Commission. The bill also authorizes the Commission to use money from the Texas Mobility Fund for certain port security and port transportation projects. HB 1 serves as the enabling legislation for SJR 1. Effective upon voter approval of SJR 1.

SJR 1 by Nichols. Proposing a constitutional amendment to provide for the transfer of certain general revenue to the economic stabilization fund and to the state highway fund and for the dedication of the revenue transferred to the state highway fund. Proposes a constitutional amendment that requires the comptroller to redirect one-half of the oil and natural gas production tax revenue from the rainy day fund to the state highway fund. These monies, estimated to be about $1.7 billion for the 2015-2016 biennium, transferred into the state highway fund may only be used for constructing, maintaining, and acquiring rights-of-way for public roadways other than toll roads. The resolution also directs the legislature to provide a procedure for adjusting the amounts transferred to each fund. Election Date 11/4/2014.

http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/BillLookup/text.aspx?LegSess=832&Bill=SB2

http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/BillLookup/text.aspx?LegSess=833&Bill=HB1

http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/BillLookup/Text.aspx?LegSess=833&Bill=SJR1

81



INDEX OF ADOPTED BILLS

BY BILL NUMBER

81



INDEX OF ADOPTED BILLS

BY BILL NUMBER

82


INDEX OF ADOPTED BILLS BY BILL NUMBERHOUSE BILLS

HB 1 (Third Called Session) by Pickett. Relating to transportation

funding, expenditures, and finance and the preservation of a

sufficient balance in the economic stabilization fund; making an

appropriation. ............................................................................ 80

HB 4 by Ritter. Relating to the administration of the Texas Water

Development Board and the funding of water projects by the

board and other entities; authorizing the issuance of revenue

bonds. ......................................................................................... 45

HB 7 by Darby. Relating to the amounts, availability, and use of

certain statutorily dedicated revenue and accounts; reducing or

affecting the amounts or rates of certain statutorily dedicated

fees and assessments; making an appropriation. ................... 42

HB 10 by Pitts. Relating to making emergency supplemental

appropriations and providing direction and transfer authority

regarding certain appropriations. ............................................ 42

HB 13 by Callegari. Relating to the State Pension Review Board

and public retirement systems; authorizing a fee. .................. 35

HB 48 by Flynn. Relating to the procedure under which a person

may renew a license to carry a concealed handgun. ............... 25

HB 62 by Guillen. Relating to a justice or judge having an interest

in a business entity that owns, manages, or operates a private

correctional or rehabilitation facility. ..................................... 20

HB 97 by Perry, Charles. Relating to the exemption from ad valorem

taxation of part of the appraised value of the residence homestead

of a partially disabled veteran or the surviving spouse of a partially

disabled veteran if the residence homestead was donated to the

disabled veteran by a charitable organization. .......................... 38

HB 124 by Anderson. Relating to the addition of Salvia divinorum

and its derivatives and extracts to Penalty Group 3 of the Texas

Controlled Substances Act. .........................................................33

HB 144 by Raymond, Richard. Relating to a mental examination of

a child subject to the juvenile justice system. ........................... 23

HB 195 by Farias. Relating to the availability on the Internet

of reports of political expenditures and contributions filed in

connection with certain county and municipal offices. .......... 20

HB 232 by Guillen. Relating to allowing certain minors convicted

of certain alcohol offenses to perform community service instead

of attending an alcohol awareness program. ........................... 12

HB 242 by Otto. Relating to the requirement that certain ad

valorem tax-related notices be delivered to a property owner by

certified mail. ............................................................................. 36

HB 259 by Simmons. Relating to electioneering conducted near a

polling place. ............................................................................... 17

HB 294 by Rodriguez, Eddie. Relating to the exemption from ad

valorem taxation of certain property owned by a charitable

organization and used in providing housing and related services

to certain homeless individuals. ............................................... 38

HB 315 by Otto. Relating to the applicability of the law governing

the ad valorem taxation of a dealer’s motor vehicle inventory. 36

HB 316 by Otto. Relating to the pilot program authorizing a

property owner to appeal to the State Office of Administrative

Hearings regarding certain appraisal review board

determinations. ............................................................................ 8

HB 338 by Guillen. Relating to the court in which a hearing

regarding the towing of a motor vehicle may be held. ............ 12

HB 347 by Pitts. Relating to prohibiting using a wireless

communication device while operating a motor vehicle on school

property. ..................................................................................... 33

HB 396 by Thompson, Senfronia. Relating to providing a federal

postcard applicant with a ballot for certain elections in which the

applicant is eligible to vote. .......................................................... 17

HB 434 by Riddle. Relating to the persons authorized to take

a blood specimen from a vehicle operator to test for alcohol

concentration or other intoxicating substances. ..................... 25

HB 438 by Dutton. Relating to the courts authorized to issue an

82


INDEX OF ADOPTED BILLS BY BILL NUMBERHOUSE BILLS

HB 1 (Third Called Session) by Pickett. Relating to transportation

funding, expenditures, and finance and the preservation of a

sufficient balance in the economic stabilization fund; making an

appropriation. ............................................................................ 80

HB 4 by Ritter. Relating to the administration of the Texas Water

Development Board and the funding of water projects by the

board and other entities; authorizing the issuance of revenue

bonds. ......................................................................................... 45

HB 7 by Darby. Relating to the amounts, availability, and use of

certain statutorily dedicated revenue and accounts; reducing or

affecting the amounts or rates of certain statutorily dedicated

fees and assessments; making an appropriation. ................... 42

HB 10 by Pitts. Relating to making emergency supplemental

appropriations and providing direction and transfer authority

regarding certain appropriations. ............................................ 42

HB 13 by Callegari. Relating to the State Pension Review Board

and public retirement systems; authorizing a fee. .................. 35

HB 48 by Flynn. Relating to the procedure under which a person

may renew a license to carry a concealed handgun. ............... 25

HB 62 by Guillen. Relating to a justice or judge having an interest

in a business entity that owns, manages, or operates a private

correctional or rehabilitation facility. ..................................... 20

HB 97 by Perry, Charles. Relating to the exemption from ad valorem

taxation of part of the appraised value of the residence homestead

of a partially disabled veteran or the surviving spouse of a partially

disabled veteran if the residence homestead was donated to the

disabled veteran by a charitable organization. .......................... 38

HB 124 by Anderson. Relating to the addition of Salvia divinorum

and its derivatives and extracts to Penalty Group 3 of the Texas

Controlled Substances Act. .........................................................33

HB 144 by Raymond, Richard. Relating to a mental examination of

a child subject to the juvenile justice system. ........................... 23

HB 195 by Farias. Relating to the availability on the Internet

of reports of political expenditures and contributions filed in

connection with certain county and municipal offices. .......... 20

HB 232 by Guillen. Relating to allowing certain minors convicted

of certain alcohol offenses to perform community service instead

of attending an alcohol awareness program. ........................... 12

HB 242 by Otto. Relating to the requirement that certain ad

valorem tax-related notices be delivered to a property owner by

certified mail. ............................................................................. 36

HB 259 by Simmons. Relating to electioneering conducted near a

polling place. ............................................................................... 17

HB 294 by Rodriguez, Eddie. Relating to the exemption from ad

valorem taxation of certain property owned by a charitable

organization and used in providing housing and related services

to certain homeless individuals. ............................................... 38

HB 315 by Otto. Relating to the applicability of the law governing

the ad valorem taxation of a dealer’s motor vehicle inventory. 36

HB 316 by Otto. Relating to the pilot program authorizing a

property owner to appeal to the State Office of Administrative

Hearings regarding certain appraisal review board

determinations. ............................................................................ 8

HB 338 by Guillen. Relating to the court in which a hearing

regarding the towing of a motor vehicle may be held. ............ 12

HB 347 by Pitts. Relating to prohibiting using a wireless

communication device while operating a motor vehicle on school

property. ..................................................................................... 33

HB 396 by Thompson, Senfronia. Relating to providing a federal

postcard applicant with a ballot for certain elections in which the

applicant is eligible to vote. .......................................................... 17

HB 434 by Riddle. Relating to the persons authorized to take

a blood specimen from a vehicle operator to test for alcohol

concentration or other intoxicating substances. ..................... 25

HB 438 by Dutton. Relating to the courts authorized to issue an

83


occupational driver’s license. .................................................... 12

HB 477 by Harper-Brown. Relating to the authority of a county to

advertise on leased vehicles. ........................................................ 9

HB 487 by Bell. Relating to liability of certain persons assisting in

man-made or natural disasters. ................................................ 18

HB 489 by Menendez. Relating to rights and responsibilities of persons

with disabilities, including with respect to the use of service animals

that provide assistance to those persons; providing penalties. ..... 35

HB 511 by Murphy. Relating to the registration of token trailers. ... 31

HB 528 by Turner, Sylvester. Relating to the restriction of access

to the records and files of a child charged with or convicted of

certain fine-only misdemeanor offenses. ................................. 23

HB 555 by Callegari. Relating to certain criminal offenses for

violations of the law regulating metal recycling entities. ........ 33

HB 561 by Workman. Relating to an exemption for land owned by

a school from the additional tax imposed on the change of use of

land appraised for ad valorem tax purposes as qualified open-

space land. .................................................................................. 38

HB 567 by Smith. Relating to the definition of an authorized

emergency vehicle. ..................................................................... 19

HB 570 by Alonzo. Relating to issuance of a magistrate’s order for

emergency protection. ............................................................... 12

HB 577 by Guillen. Relating to the representation of certain

applicants for writs of habeas corpus in cases involving the death

penalty. ....................................................................................... 22

HB 581 by Howard. Relating to the waiver of sovereign immunity

in certain employment lawsuits by nurses. ............................... 12

HB 584 by Rodriguez, Eddie. Relating to the posting of a notice of

foreclosure sale on a county’s Internet website. ....................... 34

HB 585 by Villarreal. Relating to ad valorem taxation; creating

an offense. Creates numerous changes to appraisal district

processes. ...................................................................................... 8

HB 666 by Miller, Rick. Relating to the elections to which certain

applications for a ballot to be voted by mail are applicable. .... 17

HB 694 by Phillips. Relating to access by certain military

personnel to juvenile and criminal history information. ........ 41

HB 698 by Springer. Relating to certain procedures for submitting

legible and classifiable fingerprints with an application for a

license to carry a concealed handgun. ..................................... 25

HB 699 by Davis, John. Relating to the location of certain public

sales of real property. ................................................................... 9

HB 705 by Howard. Relating to the definition of emergency

services personnel for purposes of the enhanced penalty

prescribed for an assault committed against a person providing

services in that capacity. ............................................................ 33

HB 709 by Isaac. Relating to ad valorem tax payments and

refunds. Allows a taxing unit to apply a property owner’s tax

refund to another delinquent tax year, other than the current

tax year, for the property that receives a tax refund. .............. 36

HB 712 by Murphy. Relating to the responsibility for keeping fire-

fighting equipment furnished to a volunteer fire department by a

county in good working order. .................................................. 22

HB 714 by Kuempel. Relating to an agreement between a county

and the Department of Public Safety for the joint operation of

certain fixed-site facilities. .......................................................... 9

HB 738 by Crownover. Relating to the review of the creation

of certain proposed municipal utility districts by county

commissioners courts. .............................................................. 41

HB 746 by Ashby. Relating to the registration of volunteer health

practitioners and the services of volunteer health practitioners

during disasters. ......................................................................... 19

HB 762 by Guillen. Relating to restrictions on disaster remediation

contracts following a locally declared disaster. ....................... 19

HB 768 by Howard. Relating to the application of the public and

private facilities and infrastructure contracting requirements to

technology facilities. ................................................................... 41

HB 802 by Rose. Relating to the definition of an authorized


HB 826 by Harless. Relating to the definitions of certain terms

for purposes of the ad valorem taxation of certain dealer’s heavy

equipment inventory. ................................................................. 39

83


occupational driver’s license. .................................................... 12

HB 477 by Harper-Brown. Relating to the authority of a county to

advertise on leased vehicles. ........................................................ 9

HB 487 by Bell. Relating to liability of certain persons assisting in

man-made or natural disasters. ................................................ 18

HB 489 by Menendez. Relating to rights and responsibilities of persons

with disabilities, including with respect to the use of service animals

that provide assistance to those persons; providing penalties. ..... 35

HB 511 by Murphy. Relating to the registration of token trailers. ... 31

HB 528 by Turner, Sylvester. Relating to the restriction of access

to the records and files of a child charged with or convicted of

certain fine-only misdemeanor offenses. ................................. 23

HB 555 by Callegari. Relating to certain criminal offenses for

violations of the law regulating metal recycling entities. ........ 33

HB 561 by Workman. Relating to an exemption for land owned by

a school from the additional tax imposed on the change of use of

land appraised for ad valorem tax purposes as qualified open-

space land. .................................................................................. 38

HB 567 by Smith. Relating to the definition of an authorized


HB 570 by Alonzo. Relating to issuance of a magistrate’s order for

emergency protection. ............................................................... 12

HB 577 by Guillen. Relating to the representation of certain

applicants for writs of habeas corpus in cases involving the death

penalty. ....................................................................................... 22

HB 581 by Howard. Relating to the waiver of sovereign immunity

in certain employment lawsuits by nurses. ............................... 12

HB 584 by Rodriguez, Eddie. Relating to the posting of a notice of

foreclosure sale on a county’s Internet website. ....................... 34

HB 585 by Villarreal. Relating to ad valorem taxation; creating

an offense. Creates numerous changes to appraisal district

processes. ...................................................................................... 8

HB 666 by Miller, Rick. Relating to the elections to which certain

applications for a ballot to be voted by mail are applicable. .... 17

HB 694 by Phillips. Relating to access by certain military

personnel to juvenile and criminal history information. ........ 41

HB 698 by Springer. Relating to certain procedures for submitting

legible and classifiable fingerprints with an application for a

license to carry a concealed handgun. ..................................... 25

HB 699 by Davis, John. Relating to the location of certain public

sales of real property. ................................................................... 9

HB 705 by Howard. Relating to the definition of emergency

services personnel for purposes of the enhanced penalty

prescribed for an assault committed against a person providing

services in that capacity. ............................................................ 33

HB 709 by Isaac. Relating to ad valorem tax payments and

refunds. Allows a taxing unit to apply a property owner’s tax

refund to another delinquent tax year, other than the current

tax year, for the property that receives a tax refund. .............. 36

HB 712 by Murphy. Relating to the responsibility for keeping fire-

fighting equipment furnished to a volunteer fire department by a

county in good working order. .................................................. 22

HB 714 by Kuempel. Relating to an agreement between a county

and the Department of Public Safety for the joint operation of

certain fixed-site facilities. .......................................................... 9

HB 738 by Crownover. Relating to the review of the creation

of certain proposed municipal utility districts by county

commissioners courts. .............................................................. 41

HB 746 by Ashby. Relating to the registration of volunteer health

practitioners and the services of volunteer health practitioners

during disasters. ......................................................................... 19

HB 762 by Guillen. Relating to restrictions on disaster remediation

contracts following a locally declared disaster. ....................... 19

HB 768 by Howard. Relating to the application of the public and

private facilities and infrastructure contracting requirements to

technology facilities. ................................................................... 41

HB 802 by Rose. Relating to the definition of an authorized


HB 826 by Harless. Relating to the definitions of certain terms

for purposes of the ad valorem taxation of certain dealer’s heavy

equipment inventory. ................................................................. 39

84


HB 833 by Giddings. Relating to certain procedures regarding

an application for a writ of habeas corpus filed in a noncapital

felony case. ................................................................................. 12

HB 869 by Ashby. Relating to the issuance of a marriage license

for an absent applicant, the participation of a proxy in certain

marriage ceremonies, and the maintenance and submission

of records relating to a marriage license issued for an absent

applicant. .................................................................................... 45

HB 899 by Perry. Relating to certain rights of victims, guardians

of victims, and close relatives of deceased victims in the criminal

justice system. ............................................................................. 14

HB 908 by Nevarez. Relating to the assessment of an elderly

or disabled person’s psychological status for purposes of an

emergency order authorizing protective services. ................... 29

HB 912 by Gooden. Relating to images captured by unmanned

aircraft and other images and recordings; providing

penalties. .................................................................................... 26

HB 978 by Raymond. Relating to the transportation of certain

patients to a mental health facility. ......................................... 29

HB 985 by Elkins. Relating to the deadlines by which provisional

ballots must be processed and the state canvass must be

conducted for certain elections. ............................................... 17

HB 1009 by Villalba. Relating to the creation of a new category

of law enforcement officer who shall be designated a school

marshal, the training and appointment of certain employees

of a school district or open-enrollment charter school as

school marshals, and the rights, restrictions, limitations, and

responsibilities of school marshals; authorizing the imposition of

a fee. ........................................................................................... 26

HB 1023 by Burkett. Relating to recommendations by the Health

and Human Services Commission or a designated health and

human services agency regarding mental health workforce

shortages. ................................................................................... 29

HB 1025 by Pitts. Relating to making supplemental appropriations

and reductions in appropriations and giving direction and

adjustment authority regarding appropriations. .................... 42

HB 1035 by Huberty. Relating to the filing of reports of political

contributions and expenditures and of personal financial

statements by certain officeholders and candidates. .............. 20

HB 1044 by Eiland. Relating to the operation of all-terrain vehicles

and recreational off-highway vehicles; creating an offense. ..... 9

HB 1050 by Callegari. Relating to purchasing and other contracts

by governmental entities. ......................................................... 41

HB 1097 by Sheets. Relating to the amount of a fine for certain

traffic offenses committed in a construction or maintenance

work zone. .................................................................................. 33

HB 1106 by Larson. Relating to the identification and operation of

vessels in the waters of this state. ............................................. 31

HB 1120 by Riddle. Relating to the duties of the Texas Crime

Stoppers Council to encourage individuals to report criminal

activity related to trafficking of persons. ................................ 15

HB 1125 by Lavender. Relating to the rights of an accused person

in and the written waiver of extradition proceedings. ........... 16

HB 1127 by Smith. Relating to the regulation of game rooms by

certain counties; providing penalties; authorizing a fee. ....... 10

HB 1129 by White. Relating to a program allowing certain military

voters on active duty overseas to cast a ballot electronically. ... 17

HB 1164 by Thompson, Ed. Relating to the territory that may be

included in a single county election precinct. ......................... 18

HB 1191 by Burkett. Relating to certain information about housing

for persons with mental illness provided through the Texas

Information and Referral Network Internet site. .................... 29

HB 1206 by Parker. Relating to the duties of a law enforcement

agency regarding certain children who are reported to be

missing. ....................................................................................... 26

HB 1222 by Turner, Chris. Relating to venue for certain alleged

violations or offenses under the Water Safety Act. .................. 13

HB 1245 by Turner, Sylvester. Relating to the allocation of money

in the judicial and court personnel training fund. ................. 13

HB 1263 by Lewis. Relating to the delay in the implementation of

the abolishment of small claims courts. ................................... 13

HB 1272 by Thompson, Senfronia. Relating to the continuation and

duties of the Human Trafficking Prevention Task Force. ....... 15

84


HB 833 by Giddings. Relating to certain procedures regarding

an application for a writ of habeas corpus filed in a noncapital

felony case. ................................................................................. 12

HB 869 by Ashby. Relating to the issuance of a marriage license

for an absent applicant, the participation of a proxy in certain

marriage ceremonies, and the maintenance and submission

of records relating to a marriage license issued for an absent

applicant. .................................................................................... 45

HB 899 by Perry. Relating to certain rights of victims, guardians

of victims, and close relatives of deceased victims in the criminal

justice system. ............................................................................. 14

HB 908 by Nevarez. Relating to the assessment of an elderly

or disabled person’s psychological status for purposes of an

emergency order authorizing protective services. ................... 29

HB 912 by Gooden. Relating to images captured by unmanned

aircraft and other images and recordings; providing

penalties. .................................................................................... 26

HB 978 by Raymond. Relating to the transportation of certain

patients to a mental health facility. ......................................... 29

HB 985 by Elkins. Relating to the deadlines by which provisional

ballots must be processed and the state canvass must be

conducted for certain elections. ............................................... 17

HB 1009 by Villalba. Relating to the creation of a new category

of law enforcement officer who shall be designated a school

marshal, the training and appointment of certain employees

of a school district or open-enrollment charter school as

school marshals, and the rights, restrictions, limitations, and

responsibilities of school marshals; authorizing the imposition of

a fee. ........................................................................................... 26

HB 1023 by Burkett. Relating to recommendations by the Health

and Human Services Commission or a designated health and

human services agency regarding mental health workforce

shortages. ................................................................................... 29

HB 1025 by Pitts. Relating to making supplemental appropriations

and reductions in appropriations and giving direction and

adjustment authority regarding appropriations. .................... 42

HB 1035 by Huberty. Relating to the filing of reports of political

contributions and expenditures and of personal financial

statements by certain officeholders and candidates. .............. 20

HB 1044 by Eiland. Relating to the operation of all-terrain vehicles

and recreational off-highway vehicles; creating an offense. ..... 9

HB 1050 by Callegari. Relating to purchasing and other contracts

by governmental entities. ......................................................... 41

HB 1097 by Sheets. Relating to the amount of a fine for certain

traffic offenses committed in a construction or maintenance

work zone. .................................................................................. 33

HB 1106 by Larson. Relating to the identification and operation of

vessels in the waters of this state. ............................................. 31

HB 1120 by Riddle. Relating to the duties of the Texas Crime

Stoppers Council to encourage individuals to report criminal

activity related to trafficking of persons. ................................ 15

HB 1125 by Lavender. Relating to the rights of an accused person

in and the written waiver of extradition proceedings. ........... 16

HB 1127 by Smith. Relating to the regulation of game rooms by

certain counties; providing penalties; authorizing a fee. ....... 10

HB 1129 by White. Relating to a program allowing certain military

voters on active duty overseas to cast a ballot electronically. ... 17

HB 1164 by Thompson, Ed. Relating to the territory that may be

included in a single county election precinct. ......................... 18

HB 1191 by Burkett. Relating to certain information about housing

for persons with mental illness provided through the Texas

Information and Referral Network Internet site. .................... 29

HB 1206 by Parker. Relating to the duties of a law enforcement

agency regarding certain children who are reported to be

missing. ....................................................................................... 26

HB 1222 by Turner, Chris. Relating to venue for certain alleged

violations or offenses under the Water Safety Act. .................. 13

HB 1245 by Turner, Sylvester. Relating to the allocation of money

in the judicial and court personnel training fund. ................. 13

HB 1263 by Lewis. Relating to the delay in the implementation of

the abolishment of small claims courts. ................................... 13

HB 1272 by Thompson, Senfronia. Relating to the continuation and

duties of the Human Trafficking Prevention Task Force. ....... 15

85


HB 1287 by Hilderbran. Relating to the contents of an application

by certain persons for an exemption from ad valorem taxation of

the person’s residence homestead. ........................................... 39

HB 1302 by Clardy. Relating to the imposition of a sentence of life

without parole on certain repeat sex offenders and to certain

restrictions on employment for certain sex offenders. ............ 26

HB 1318 by Turner, Sylvester. Relating to the appointment of counsel

to represent certain youths and indigent defendants. ................ 22

HB 1349 by Larson. Relating to information that may be requested

by the Department of Public Safety from a person applying for or

renewing a concealed handgun license. .................................. 26

HB 1384 by Bell. Relating to the authority of a county road

department to accept donations. .............................................. 43

HB 1421 by Perry. Relating to the disposition of certain seized

weapons. ..................................................................................... 26

HB 1435 by Darby. Relating to certain notices, reports, and

descriptions provided by or filed with court and county clerks. .. 13

HB 1442 by Fletcher. Relating to the authority of a county to

deposit fees collected by a county bail bond board in a separate

county fund. ................................................................................. 9

HB 1513 by Lewis. Relating to temporary increases in the records

archive fees and the records management and preservation fees

charged by district and county clerks. ...................................... 21

HB 1562 by Harless. Relating to notice provided when a bail bond

surety is in default. ....................................................................... 9

HB 1597 by Gonzalez, Naomi. Relating to installment payments of

ad valorem taxes. ....................................................................... 36

HB 1607 by Farney. Relating to the authority of the commissioners

court of a county to alter speed limits on county roads. ......... 44

HB 1632 by Fletcher. Relating to the confidentiality of certain

identifying information of peace officers, county jailers, security

officers, employees of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice

or a prosecutor’s office, or judges and their spouses. ............... 34

HB 1690 by Fletcher. Relating to measures to prevent or control

the entry into or spread in this state of certain communicable

diseases; providing a penalty. .................................................... 27

HB 1728 by Ashby. Relating to the use of an unsworn declaration,

the disposition of certain court exhibits, and the seal of a

constitutional county court or county clerk. ............................ 41

HB 1738 by Naishtat. Relating to the emergency detention by a

peace officer of a person who may have mental illness, including

information provided to the person subject to detention and a

standard form of notification of detention to be provided to a

facility by a peace officer. .......................................................... 30

HB 1755 by Patrick. Relating to authorizing the appointment of

a public probate administrator; authorizing fees. ............... 35

HB 1819 by Kacal. Relating to liability for injuring a trespassing

sheep or goat. ............................................................................ 27

HB 1847 by Carter. Relating to continuing legal education in ethics

or professional responsibility for prosecutors. ........................ 15

HB 1897 by Eiland. Relating to the exemption from ad valorem

taxation of pollution control property. ...................................... 39

HB 1913 by Bohac. Relating to the waiver of penalties and interest on

certain delinquent ad valorem taxes. ......................................... 36

HB 1931 by Guillen. Relating to compensation of property owners

whose property is damaged as a result of a pursuit involving a law

enforcement agency. ..................................................................... 27

HB 1951 by Thompson, Senfronia. Relating to the licensing

and regulation of telecommunicators; providing a criminal

penalty. ...................................................................................... 27

HB 2006 by Klick. Relating to eligibility for appointment as a

central counting station manager. ............................................ 18

HB 2021 by Rodriguez, Eddie. Relating to the authority of a

municipality or county to contract for the collection of certain

amounts; authorizing a fee. ...................................................... 10

HB 2112 by Raymond. Relating to financial disclosure reports

made by a member of a county planning commission. .......... 20

HB 2123 by Guillen. Relating to the regulation of game rooms in

certain counties; providing penalties; authorizing a fee. ...... 10

85


HB 1287 by Hilderbran. Relating to the contents of an application

by certain persons for an exemption from ad valorem taxation of

the person’s residence homestead. ........................................... 39

HB 1302 by Clardy. Relating to the imposition of a sentence of life

without parole on certain repeat sex offenders and to certain

restrictions on employment for certain sex offenders. ............ 26

HB 1318 by Turner, Sylvester. Relating to the appointment of counsel

to represent certain youths and indigent defendants. ................ 22

HB 1349 by Larson. Relating to information that may be requested

by the Department of Public Safety from a person applying for or

renewing a concealed handgun license. .................................. 26

HB 1384 by Bell. Relating to the authority of a county road

department to accept donations. .............................................. 43

HB 1421 by Perry. Relating to the disposition of certain seized

weapons. ..................................................................................... 26

HB 1435 by Darby. Relating to certain notices, reports, and

descriptions provided by or filed with court and county clerks. .. 13

HB 1442 by Fletcher. Relating to the authority of a county to

deposit fees collected by a county bail bond board in a separate

county fund. ................................................................................. 9

HB 1513 by Lewis. Relating to temporary increases in the records

archive fees and the records management and preservation fees

charged by district and county clerks. ...................................... 21

HB 1562 by Harless. Relating to notice provided when a bail bond

surety is in default. ....................................................................... 9

HB 1597 by Gonzalez, Naomi. Relating to installment payments of

ad valorem taxes. ....................................................................... 36

HB 1607 by Farney. Relating to the authority of the commissioners

court of a county to alter speed limits on county roads. ......... 44

HB 1632 by Fletcher. Relating to the confidentiality of certain

identifying information of peace officers, county jailers, security

officers, employees of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice

or a prosecutor’s office, or judges and their spouses. ............... 34

HB 1690 by Fletcher. Relating to measures to prevent or control

the entry into or spread in this state of certain communicable

diseases; providing a penalty. .................................................... 27

HB 1728 by Ashby. Relating to the use of an unsworn declaration,

the disposition of certain court exhibits, and the seal of a

constitutional county court or county clerk. ............................ 41

HB 1738 by Naishtat. Relating to the emergency detention by a

peace officer of a person who may have mental illness, including

information provided to the person subject to detention and a

standard form of notification of detention to be provided to a

facility by a peace officer. .......................................................... 30

HB 1755 by Patrick. Relating to authorizing the appointment of

a public probate administrator; authorizing fees. ............... 35

HB 1819 by Kacal. Relating to liability for injuring a trespassing

sheep or goat. ............................................................................ 27

HB 1847 by Carter. Relating to continuing legal education in ethics

or professional responsibility for prosecutors. ........................ 15

HB 1897 by Eiland. Relating to the exemption from ad valorem

taxation of pollution control property. ...................................... 39

HB 1913 by Bohac. Relating to the waiver of penalties and interest on

certain delinquent ad valorem taxes. ......................................... 36

HB 1931 by Guillen. Relating to compensation of property owners

whose property is damaged as a result of a pursuit involving a law

enforcement agency. ..................................................................... 27

HB 1951 by Thompson, Senfronia. Relating to the licensing

and regulation of telecommunicators; providing a criminal

penalty. ...................................................................................... 27

HB 2006 by Klick. Relating to eligibility for appointment as a

central counting station manager. ............................................ 18

HB 2021 by Rodriguez, Eddie. Relating to the authority of a

municipality or county to contract for the collection of certain

amounts; authorizing a fee. ...................................................... 10

HB 2112 by Raymond. Relating to financial disclosure reports

made by a member of a county planning commission. .......... 20

HB 2123 by Guillen. Relating to the regulation of game rooms in

certain counties; providing penalties; authorizing a fee. ...... 10

86


HB 2202 by Pickett. Relating to the disposition of fees collected

by or on behalf of the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles;

authorizing fees. ....................................................................... 31

HB 2268 by Frullo. Relating to search warrants issued in this state

and other states for certain customer data, communications

and other related information held in electronic storage in this

state and other states by providers of electronic communications

services and remote computing services. ................................. 16

HB 2290 by Lozano. Relating to the use for administrative costs of

a portion of money received by certain entities to implement a

supplemental environmental project. ..................................... 19

HB 2302 by Hunter. Relating to signing electronic or digital court

documents, to the electronic filing system established by the

Texas Supreme Court, to the statewide electronic filing system

fund, to certain court fees and court costs, and to recovery of

electronic filing fees by taxing units; imposing and authorizing

certain fees. ............................................................................... 21

HB 2304 by Rodriguez, Eddie. Relating to the certification of sheriffs

and deputy sheriffs to enforce commercial motor vehicle safety

standards in certain counties. ................................................... 27

HB 2305 by Rodriguez, Eddie. Relating to motor vehicle

inspections; creating an offense; changing the collection method

for certain fees. ......................................................................... 31

HB 2373 by Klick. Relating to the use of an electronic device to

capture a voter’s signature for the signature roster. ............... 18

HB 2392 by Menendez. Relating to the mental health program for

veterans. ..................................................................................... 30

HB 2394 by Perry. Relating to a study on the feasibility of

requiring title for all trailers, semitrailers, and travel trailers not

considered manufactured housing. ......................................... 32

HB 2414 by Button. Relating to open meetings of governmental

bodies held by videoconference call and to written electronic

communications between members of a governmental body. ..... 34

HB 2454 by Frank. Relating to reimbursement of health care

services rendered by a health care provider for an inmate of a

county jail or another county correctional facility. ................ 22

HB 2500 by Bohac. Relating to the appraisal for ad valorem tax

purposes of solar energy property. ............................................ 9

HB 2512 by Miller, Rick. Relating to the disclosure of certain

information to the secretary of state for use in voter

registration or the administration of elections. .................. 18

HB 2612 by Flynn. Relating to prohibitions and restrictions on

using county roads in certain circumstances. ......................... 44

HB 2636 by Frullo. Relating to the transfer of money from the

tax increment fund established for a tax increment financing

reinvestment zone to the fund established for an adjacent

zone. ........................................................................................... 17

HB 2649 by Herrero. Relating to the punishment for violating

certain rules or permit terms under a permit to trap, transport,

and transplant certain animals. ............................................... 33

HB 2679 by Guillen. Relating to permitting an alternative plea

for a defendant detained in jail pending trial for a Class C

misdemeanor. ............................................................................ 16

HB 2690 by Elkins. Relating to the sale of a vehicle by an

unlicensed seller; creating an offense. .................................... 27

HB 2712 by Perez. Relating to the exemption from ad valorem

taxation of energy storage systems used for the control of air

pollution in a nonattainment area. ......................................... 39

HB 2733 by White. Relating to the administration and operation

of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department. Addresses various

statutes relating to the Texas Juvenile Justice Department

(TJJD). ....................................................................................... 24

HB 2741 by Phillips. Relating to the regulation of motor vehicles

by counties and the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV);

authorizing a fee; creating an offense. .................................... 32

HB 2825 by King, Ken. Relating to the authority of a county to

establish a centralized sex offender registration authority. ... 10

HB 2859 by Harless. Relating to the amount of money authorized

to be used for Clean Air Act local initiative projects related to

vehicles. ...................................................................................... 44

HB 2862 by McClendon. Relating to procedures related to juvenile

cases. .......................................................................................... 24

HB 2902 by Thompson, Ed. Relating to lost, damaged, or overdue

county library property; authorizing fines; authorizing a civil

penalty. ...................................................................................... 10

86


HB 2202 by Pickett. Relating to the disposition of fees collected

by or on behalf of the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles;

authorizing fees. ....................................................................... 31

HB 2268 by Frullo. Relating to search warrants issued in this state

and other states for certain customer data, communications

and other related information held in electronic storage in this

state and other states by providers of electronic communications

services and remote computing services. ................................. 16

HB 2290 by Lozano. Relating to the use for administrative costs of

a portion of money received by certain entities to implement a

supplemental environmental project. ..................................... 19

HB 2302 by Hunter. Relating to signing electronic or digital court

documents, to the electronic filing system established by the

Texas Supreme Court, to the statewide electronic filing system

fund, to certain court fees and court costs, and to recovery of

electronic filing fees by taxing units; imposing and authorizing

certain fees. ............................................................................... 21

HB 2304 by Rodriguez, Eddie. Relating to the certification of sheriffs

and deputy sheriffs to enforce commercial motor vehicle safety

standards in certain counties. ................................................... 27

HB 2305 by Rodriguez, Eddie. Relating to motor vehicle

inspections; creating an offense; changing the collection method

for certain fees. ......................................................................... 31

HB 2373 by Klick. Relating to the use of an electronic device to

capture a voter’s signature for the signature roster. ............... 18

HB 2392 by Menendez. Relating to the mental health program for

veterans. ..................................................................................... 30

HB 2394 by Perry. Relating to a study on the feasibility of

requiring title for all trailers, semitrailers, and travel trailers not

considered manufactured housing. ......................................... 32

HB 2414 by Button. Relating to open meetings of governmental

bodies held by videoconference call and to written electronic

communications between members of a governmental body. ..... 34

HB 2454 by Frank. Relating to reimbursement of health care

services rendered by a health care provider for an inmate of a

county jail or another county correctional facility. ................ 22

HB 2500 by Bohac. Relating to the appraisal for ad valorem tax

purposes of solar energy property. ............................................ 9

HB 2512 by Miller, Rick. Relating to the disclosure of certain

information to the secretary of state for use in voter

registration or the administration of elections. .................. 18

HB 2612 by Flynn. Relating to prohibitions and restrictions on

using county roads in certain circumstances. ......................... 44

HB 2636 by Frullo. Relating to the transfer of money from the

tax increment fund established for a tax increment financing

reinvestment zone to the fund established for an adjacent

zone. ........................................................................................... 17

HB 2649 by Herrero. Relating to the punishment for violating

certain rules or permit terms under a permit to trap, transport,

and transplant certain animals. ............................................... 33

HB 2679 by Guillen. Relating to permitting an alternative plea

for a defendant detained in jail pending trial for a Class C

misdemeanor. ............................................................................ 16

HB 2690 by Elkins. Relating to the sale of a vehicle by an

unlicensed seller; creating an offense. .................................... 27

HB 2712 by Perez. Relating to the exemption from ad valorem

taxation of energy storage systems used for the control of air

pollution in a nonattainment area. ......................................... 39

HB 2733 by White. Relating to the administration and operation

of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department. Addresses various

statutes relating to the Texas Juvenile Justice Department

(TJJD). ....................................................................................... 24

HB 2741 by Phillips. Relating to the regulation of motor vehicles

by counties and the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV);

authorizing a fee; creating an offense. .................................... 32

HB 2825 by King, Ken. Relating to the authority of a county to

establish a centralized sex offender registration authority. ... 10

HB 2859 by Harless. Relating to the amount of money authorized

to be used for Clean Air Act local initiative projects related to

vehicles. ...................................................................................... 44

HB 2862 by McClendon. Relating to procedures related to juvenile

cases. .......................................................................................... 24

HB 2902 by Thompson, Ed. Relating to lost, damaged, or overdue

county library property; authorizing fines; authorizing a civil

penalty. ...................................................................................... 10

87


HB 2912 by Thompson, Senfronia. Relating to decedents’

estates. ...................................................................................... 36

HB 3121 by Harper-Brown. Relating to the qualifications for the

exemption from ad valorem taxation for aircraft parts located in

this state for a limited time. ..................................................... 39

HB 3142 by Bell. Relating to handguns used to demonstrate

proficiency in handgun use for purposes of obtaining a

concealed handgun license. ..................................................... 27

HB 3178 by Phillips. Relating to the Texas Statewide Mutual Aid

System. Removes the deadline for confirming in writing a verbal

request for mutual aid. ................................................................. 19

HB 3259 by Wu. Relating to certain investigation records in child

abuse and neglect cases and to information regarding a child

available to prospective adoptive parents. .............................. 13

HB 3314 by Kuempel. Relating to instruction and continuing

education requirements for certain court clerks. ................... 40

HB 3370 by Craddick. Relating to the authority of certain retired

peace officers and former reserve law enforcement officers to

carry certain firearms. ............................................................... 27

HB 3459 by Eiland. Relating to access and protection of certain

coastal areas. .............................................................................. 19

HB 3613 by Elkins. Relating to the release of delinquent tax liens

on manufactured homes. .......................................................... 37

HB 3793 by Coleman. Relating to powers, duties, and services of

entities serving counties and county residents. ....................... 30

HB 3795 by Coleman. Relating to the creation of a county

assistance district. ...................................................................... 42

HB 3838 by Phillips. Relating to motorcycle equipment and

training and the license requirements for a three-wheeled

motorcycle; creating an offense. ............................................... 27

HJR 24 by Perry. Proposing a constitutional amendment

authorizing the legislature to provide for an exemption

from ad valorem taxation of part of the market value of the

residence homestead of a partially disabled veteran or the

surviving spouse of a partially disabled veteran if the residence

homestead was donated to the disabled veteran by a charitable

organization. ............................................................................. 38

HJR 62 by Turner, Chris. Proposing a constitutional amendment

authorizing the legislature to provide for an exemption from

ad valorem taxation of all or part of the market value of the

residence homestead of the surviving spouse of a member of the

armed services of the United States who is killed in action. .... 40

HJR 133 by Harper-Brown. Proposing a constitutional amendment

to authorize a political subdivision of this state to extend

the number of days that aircraft parts that are exempt from

ad valorem taxation due to their location in this state for a

temporary period may be located in this state for purposes of

qualifying for the tax exemption. ............................................. 39

87


HB 2912 by Thompson, Senfronia. Relating to decedents’

estates. ...................................................................................... 36

HB 3121 by Harper-Brown. Relating to the qualifications for the

exemption from ad valorem taxation for aircraft parts located in

this state for a limited time. ..................................................... 39

HB 3142 by Bell. Relating to handguns used to demonstrate

proficiency in handgun use for purposes of obtaining a

concealed handgun license. ..................................................... 27

HB 3178 by Phillips. Relating to the Texas Statewide Mutual Aid

System. Removes the deadline for confirming in writing a verbal

request for mutual aid. ................................................................. 19

HB 3259 by Wu. Relating to certain investigation records in child

abuse and neglect cases and to information regarding a child

available to prospective adoptive parents. .............................. 13

HB 3314 by Kuempel. Relating to instruction and continuing

education requirements for certain court clerks. ................... 40

HB 3370 by Craddick. Relating to the authority of certain retired

peace officers and former reserve law enforcement officers to

carry certain firearms. ............................................................... 27

HB 3459 by Eiland. Relating to access and protection of certain

coastal areas. .............................................................................. 19

HB 3613 by Elkins. Relating to the release of delinquent tax liens

on manufactured homes. .......................................................... 37

HB 3793 by Coleman. Relating to powers, duties, and services of

entities serving counties and county residents. ....................... 30

HB 3795 by Coleman. Relating to the creation of a county

assistance district. ...................................................................... 42

HB 3838 by Phillips. Relating to motorcycle equipment and

training and the license requirements for a three-wheeled

motorcycle; creating an offense. ............................................... 27

HJR 24 by Perry. Proposing a constitutional amendment

authorizing the legislature to provide for an exemption

from ad valorem taxation of part of the market value of the

residence homestead of a partially disabled veteran or the

surviving spouse of a partially disabled veteran if the residence

homestead was donated to the disabled veteran by a charitable

organization. ............................................................................. 38

HJR 62 by Turner, Chris. Proposing a constitutional amendment

authorizing the legislature to provide for an exemption from

ad valorem taxation of all or part of the market value of the

residence homestead of the surviving spouse of a member of the

armed services of the United States who is killed in action. .... 40

HJR 133 by Harper-Brown. Proposing a constitutional amendment

to authorize a political subdivision of this state to extend

the number of days that aircraft parts that are exempt from

ad valorem taxation due to their location in this state for a

temporary period may be located in this state for purposes of

qualifying for the tax exemption. ............................................. 39

88


INDEX OF ADOPTED BILLS BY BILL NUMBERSENATE BILLS

SB 1 by Williams. General Appropriations Bill. ........................ 42

SB 2 (Second Called Session)by Huffman. Relating to the

punishment for a capital felony committed by an individual

younger than 18 years of age. .................................................... 80

SB 34 by Zaffirini. Relating to the administration of

psychoactive medications to persons receiving services in

certain facilities. ....................................................................... 30

SB 58 by Nelson. Relating to delivery of and reporting on mental

health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and certain other

services. ....................................................................................... 30

SB 92 by Van de Putte. Relating to the designation of a juvenile

court and a program for certain juveniles who may be the victims

of human trafficking. ................................................................ 24

SB 148 by Williams. Relating to certain legal advice or legal

services rendered to certain public servants. ........................... 20

SB 163 by Van de Putte. Relating to an exemption from ad valorem

taxation of the residence homestead of the surviving spouse of a

member of the armed services of the United States who is killed in

action. ......................................................................................... 40

SB 164 by Van de Putte. Relating to the issuance to veterans of

specially marked licenses to carry a concealed handgun and

specially marked personal identification certificates. ............. 28

SB 169 by Hegar. Relating to ballot language for an election to

approve and finance a municipal or county venue project. ..... 17

SB 171 by West. Relating to the establishment of a workgroup to

study the use by state agencies of a uniform application form

following disasters. ..................................................................... 19

SB 174 by Estes. Relating to the control of stray bison and other

estrays. ........................................................................................ 28

SB 181 by Hegar. Relating to verification of motor vehicle financial

responsibility information. ........................................................ 28

SB 186 by Carona. Relating to the abatement of mosquitoes

in stagnant water located on certain uninhabited residential

property. ..................................................................................... 10

SB 194 by West. Relating to ingress and egress for access by

emergency vehicles and for use during evacuations in certain

new residential subdivisions. ..................................................... 42

SB 213 by Whitmire. Relating to the continuation and functions

of the Texas Board of Criminal Justice, the Texas Department

of Criminal Justice, and the Windham School District and to

the functions of the Board of Pardons and Paroles and the

Correctional Managed Health Care Committee. .................... 15

SB 246 by West. Relating to the electronic submission of a request

for an attorney general opinion. ............................................... 43

SB 247 by Carona. Relating to the transfer of an ad valorem tax

lien; providing an administrative penalty. ............................... 37

SB 251 by West. Relating to an unsworn declaration made by

an employee of a state agency or political subdivision in the

performance of the employee’s job duties. .............................. 35

SB 265 by Huffman. Relating to bond requirements for county

officers and employees, district attorneys, and criminal district

attorneys. .................................................................................... 40

SB 270 by Seliger. Relating to a limited exception to the

prohibition on releasing personal information about a juror

collected during the jury selection process in certain cases. .. 13

SB 299 by Estes. Relating to the intentional display of a handgun

by a person licensed to carry a concealed handgun. ............... 33

SB 354 by West. Relating to permitting electronic delivery of

certain documents in a criminal case. .................................... 13

SB 358 by Hinojosa. Relating to the use of a polygraph statement

as evidence that a defendant or releasee from the Texas

Department of Criminal Justice has violated a condition of

release. ......................................................................................... 8

88


INDEX OF ADOPTED BILLS BY BILL NUMBERSENATE BILLS

SB 1 by Williams. General Appropriations Bill. ........................ 42

SB 2 (Second Called Session)by Huffman. Relating to the

punishment for a capital felony committed by an individual

younger than 18 years of age. .................................................... 80

SB 34 by Zaffirini. Relating to the administration of

psychoactive medications to persons receiving services in

certain facilities. ....................................................................... 30

SB 58 by Nelson. Relating to delivery of and reporting on mental

health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and certain other

services. ....................................................................................... 30

SB 92 by Van de Putte. Relating to the designation of a juvenile

court and a program for certain juveniles who may be the victims

of human trafficking. ................................................................ 24

SB 148 by Williams. Relating to certain legal advice or legal

services rendered to certain public servants. ........................... 20

SB 163 by Van de Putte. Relating to an exemption from ad valorem

taxation of the residence homestead of the surviving spouse of a

member of the armed services of the United States who is killed in

action. ......................................................................................... 40

SB 164 by Van de Putte. Relating to the issuance to veterans of

specially marked licenses to carry a concealed handgun and

specially marked personal identification certificates. ............. 28

SB 169 by Hegar. Relating to ballot language for an election to

approve and finance a municipal or county venue project. ..... 17

SB 171 by West. Relating to the establishment of a workgroup to

study the use by state agencies of a uniform application form

following disasters. ..................................................................... 19

SB 174 by Estes. Relating to the control of stray bison and other

estrays. ........................................................................................ 28

SB 181 by Hegar. Relating to verification of motor vehicle financial

responsibility information. ........................................................ 28

SB 186 by Carona. Relating to the abatement of mosquitoes

in stagnant water located on certain uninhabited residential

property. ..................................................................................... 10

SB 194 by West. Relating to ingress and egress for access by

emergency vehicles and for use during evacuations in certain

new residential subdivisions. ..................................................... 42

SB 213 by Whitmire. Relating to the continuation and functions

of the Texas Board of Criminal Justice, the Texas Department

of Criminal Justice, and the Windham School District and to

the functions of the Board of Pardons and Paroles and the

Correctional Managed Health Care Committee. .................... 15

SB 246 by West. Relating to the electronic submission of a request

for an attorney general opinion. ............................................... 43

SB 247 by Carona. Relating to the transfer of an ad valorem tax

lien; providing an administrative penalty. ............................... 37

SB 251 by West. Relating to an unsworn declaration made by

an employee of a state agency or political subdivision in the

performance of the employee’s job duties. .............................. 35

SB 265 by Huffman. Relating to bond requirements for county

officers and employees, district attorneys, and criminal district

attorneys. .................................................................................... 40

SB 270 by Seliger. Relating to a limited exception to the

prohibition on releasing personal information about a juror

collected during the jury selection process in certain cases. .. 13

SB 299 by Estes. Relating to the intentional display of a handgun

by a person licensed to carry a concealed handgun. ............... 33

SB 354 by West. Relating to permitting electronic delivery of

certain documents in a criminal case. .................................... 13

SB 358 by Hinojosa. Relating to the use of a polygraph statement

as evidence that a defendant or releasee from the Texas

Department of Criminal Justice has violated a condition of

release. ......................................................................................... 8

89


SB 360 by Watson. Relating to methods used by an animal shelter

to euthanize a dog or cat. ......................................................... 10

SB 366 by Taylor. Relating to the authority of political

subdivisions to offer certain deferred compensation plans to

employees. ................................................................................. 35

SB 367 by Whitmire. Relating to the disposition of abandoned or

unclaimed property seized at the time of certain arrests. ..... 16

SB 369 by Whitmire. Relating to certain information available to

the public on a central database containing information about

sex offenders. ............................................................................ 15

SB 382 by Carona. Relating to the disbursement of county funds to

a person owing delinquent property taxes. ............................. 37

SB 385 by Carona. Relating to authorizing assessments for

water and energy improvements in regions designated by

municipalities and counties; imposing a fee. .......................... 37

SB 389 by West. Relating to the imposition of court costs in

certain criminal proceedings. .................................................. 21

SB 390 by West. Relating to the effective date of a new court

cost or fee or of an amendment to the amount of a court cost

or fee. ........................................................................................ 21

SB 391 by West. Relating to a defendant’s obligation to pay a

fine or court cost after the expiration of a period of community

supervision. ............................................................................... 21

SB 395 by West. Relating to fines and court costs imposed on a

child in a criminal case. ........................................................... 21

SB 457 by Rodriguez. Relating to the confidentiality of certain

autopsy records. ........................................................................ 34

SB 458 by Rodríguez. Relating to certain motor vehicle

records excepted from disclosure under the Public

Information Act. ...................................................................... 34

SB 462 by Huffman. Relating to specialty court programs in this

state. ........................................................................................... 13

SB 471 by Ellis. Relating to technological efficiencies in the

recording of certain open meetings. ....................................... 34

SB 484 by Whitmire. Relating to the creation of a prostitution

prevention program; authorizing a fee. ................................. 14

SB 511 by Whitmire. Relating to the commitment of certain

juveniles to local post-adjudication secure correctional facilities

in certain counties and to the release under supervision of those

juveniles. .................................................................................... 24

SB 531 by Duncan. Relating to self-insurance funds established by

governmental units. .................................................................. 12

SB 546 by Williams. Relating to continuing education

requirements and a registration exemption for county tax

assessor-collectors. .................................................................... 40

SB 552 by Uresti. Relating to an application filed with a county

commissioners court to revise a subdivision plat; authorizing a

fee. .............................................................................................. 42

SB 560 by Ellis. Relating to authorization for biweekly installment

payments for the compensation of certain justices, judges, and

district attorneys. ...................................................................... 14

SB 562 by Carona. Relating to the license qualif ications

and continuing education requirements for polygraph

examiners. ................................................................................ 28

SB 578 by Duncan. Relating to use of countywide polling places

for certain elections. ................................................................. 18

SB 581 by Carona. Relating to procedures for securing the deposit

of public funds. ......................................................................... 23

SB 634 by Davis. Relating to regulating faulty on-site sewage

disposal systems in the unincorporated areas of a county as a

public nuisance; providing a criminal penalty. ...................... 10

SB 637 by Paxton. Relating to notice and election order

requirements for bond approval elections held by political

subdivisions. .............................................................................. 18

SB 646 by Deuell. Relating to court-ordered outpatient mental

health services. ........................................................................... 30

SB 656 by Paxton. Relating to providing transparency in the

budget adoption process of municipalities and counties. ....... 11

89


SB 360 by Watson. Relating to methods used by an animal shelter

to euthanize a dog or cat. ......................................................... 10

SB 366 by Taylor. Relating to the authority of political

subdivisions to offer certain deferred compensation plans to

employees. ................................................................................. 35

SB 367 by Whitmire. Relating to the disposition of abandoned or

unclaimed property seized at the time of certain arrests. ..... 16

SB 369 by Whitmire. Relating to certain information available to

the public on a central database containing information about

sex offenders. ............................................................................ 15

SB 382 by Carona. Relating to the disbursement of county funds to

a person owing delinquent property taxes. ............................. 37

SB 385 by Carona. Relating to authorizing assessments for

water and energy improvements in regions designated by

municipalities and counties; imposing a fee. .......................... 37

SB 389 by West. Relating to the imposition of court costs in

certain criminal proceedings. .................................................. 21

SB 390 by West. Relating to the effective date of a new court

cost or fee or of an amendment to the amount of a court cost

or fee. ........................................................................................ 21

SB 391 by West. Relating to a defendant’s obligation to pay a

fine or court cost after the expiration of a period of community

supervision. ............................................................................... 21

SB 395 by West. Relating to fines and court costs imposed on a

child in a criminal case. ........................................................... 21

SB 457 by Rodriguez. Relating to the confidentiality of certain

autopsy records. ........................................................................ 34

SB 458 by Rodríguez. Relating to certain motor vehicle

records excepted from disclosure under the Public

Information Act. ...................................................................... 34

SB 462 by Huffman. Relating to specialty court programs in this

state. ........................................................................................... 13

SB 471 by Ellis. Relating to technological efficiencies in the

recording of certain open meetings. ....................................... 34

SB 484 by Whitmire. Relating to the creation of a prostitution

prevention program; authorizing a fee. ................................. 14

SB 511 by Whitmire. Relating to the commitment of certain

juveniles to local post-adjudication secure correctional facilities

in certain counties and to the release under supervision of those

juveniles. .................................................................................... 24

SB 531 by Duncan. Relating to self-insurance funds established by

governmental units. .................................................................. 12

SB 546 by Williams. Relating to continuing education

requirements and a registration exemption for county tax

assessor-collectors. .................................................................... 40

SB 552 by Uresti. Relating to an application filed with a county

commissioners court to revise a subdivision plat; authorizing a

fee. .............................................................................................. 42

SB 560 by Ellis. Relating to authorization for biweekly installment

payments for the compensation of certain justices, judges, and

district attorneys. ...................................................................... 14

SB 562 by Carona. Relating to the license qualif ications

and continuing education requirements for polygraph

examiners. ................................................................................ 28

SB 578 by Duncan. Relating to use of countywide polling places

for certain elections. ................................................................. 18

SB 581 by Carona. Relating to procedures for securing the deposit

of public funds. ......................................................................... 23

SB 634 by Davis. Relating to regulating faulty on-site sewage

disposal systems in the unincorporated areas of a county as a

public nuisance; providing a criminal penalty. ...................... 10

SB 637 by Paxton. Relating to notice and election order

requirements for bond approval elections held by political

subdivisions. .............................................................................. 18

SB 646 by Deuell. Relating to court-ordered outpatient mental

health services. ........................................................................... 30

SB 656 by Paxton. Relating to providing transparency in the

budget adoption process of municipalities and counties. ....... 11

90


SB 670 by Whitmire. Relating to the copying of certain records

and files relating to a child who is a party to a juvenile

proceeding. ............................................................................... 24

SB 679 by Duncan. Relating to certain records and supporting

affidavits filed as evidence in certain actions. ........................ 14

SB 686 by Huffman. Relating to the change of the name of

the Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and

Education to the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement. .. 28

SB 692 by Carona. Relating to the filing by electronic mail

of financial disclosures by certain county officers, county

employees, or candidates for county office. ............................ 20

SB 702 by Hegar. Relating to certified and insured prescribed burn

managers. Requires the Prescribed Burning Board to establish

insurance requirements for certified and insured prescribed

burn managers in amounts of at least $1 million for each single

occurrence of bodily injury or death, or injury to or destruction

of property, and with a policy period minimum aggregate limit of

at least $2 million. ..................................................................... 22

SB 717 by West. Relating to consent by a minor to housing or care

provided through a transitional living program. ................... 24

SB 718 by West. Relating to voluntary and involuntary mental

health services. .......................................................................... 31

SB 727 by Taylor. Relating to the eligibility for judge-ordered

community supervision or for release on parole of certain

defendants convicted of burglary with the intent to commit a sex

offense. ........................................................................................ 8

SB 742 by Carona. Relating to reports of missing children, missing

persons, or attempted child abductions and to education and

training for peace officers regarding missing or exploited

children. .................................................................................... 28

SB 764 by Watson. Relating to a limitation on liability for

prescribed burning conducted on agricultural or conservation

land. ........................................................................................... 12

SB 821 by Schwertner. Relating to the prosecution of certain

criminal offenses involving theft or involving fraud or other

deceptive practices. ................................................................... 33

SB 825 by Whitmire. Relating to disciplinary standards

and procedures applicable to grievances alleging certain

prosecutorial misconduct. ........................................................ 15

SB 831 by Taylor. Relating to a list of mental health, substance

abuse, and suicide prevention programs that may be selected for

implementation by public schools. .......................................... 31

SB 864 by Campbell. Relating to a handgun proficiency course that is

taken to obtain or renew a concealed handgun license. ........... 28

SB 866 by Paxton. Relating to authorizing local governments to

participate in statewide technology centers. ........................... 43

SB 872 by Deuell. Relating to county expenditures for certain

health care services. .................................................................. 22

SB 878 by Patrick. Relating to the disposition of proceeds and

property from criminal asset forfeiture. ..................................... 15

SB 887 by Uresti. Relating to certain correction instruments in

the conveyance of real property. .............................................. 41

SB 904 by Van de Putte. Relating to the adoption of certain voting

procedures and the modification of certain election deadlines,

including those necessary to implement the federal Military and

Overseas Voter Empowerment Act. .......................................... 18

SB 910 by Duncan. Relating to certain election practices and

procedures. ................................................................................ 18

SB 965 by Williams. Relating to the correction of employment

termination reports for law enforcement officers. ................. 28

SB 966 by West. Relating to creation of the Judicial Branch

Certification Commission and the consolidation of judicial

profession regulation; imposing penalties; authorizing fees. ...... 14

SB 967 by West. Relating to the authority of a municipality or

county to retain certain fees. .................................................. 21

SB 984 by Ellis. Relating to the meeting of a governmental body held

by videoconference call. ............................................................. 34

SB 987 by Hegar. Relating to allowing the attorney general to

obtain an injunction against a municipality or county that

adopts prohibited regulations regarding firearms, ammunition,

or firearm supplies. ................................................................... 11

90


SB 670 by Whitmire. Relating to the copying of certain records

and files relating to a child who is a party to a juvenile

proceeding. ............................................................................... 24

SB 679 by Duncan. Relating to certain records and supporting

affidavits filed as evidence in certain actions. ........................ 14

SB 686 by Huffman. Relating to the change of the name of

the Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and

Education to the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement. .. 28

SB 692 by Carona. Relating to the filing by electronic mail

of financial disclosures by certain county officers, county

employees, or candidates for county office. ............................ 20

SB 702 by Hegar. Relating to certified and insured prescribed burn

managers. Requires the Prescribed Burning Board to establish

insurance requirements for certified and insured prescribed

burn managers in amounts of at least $1 million for each single

occurrence of bodily injury or death, or injury to or destruction

of property, and with a policy period minimum aggregate limit of

at least $2 million. ..................................................................... 22

SB 717 by West. Relating to consent by a minor to housing or care

provided through a transitional living program. ................... 24

SB 718 by West. Relating to voluntary and involuntary mental

health services. .......................................................................... 31

SB 727 by Taylor. Relating to the eligibility for judge-ordered

community supervision or for release on parole of certain

defendants convicted of burglary with the intent to commit a sex

offense. ........................................................................................ 8

SB 742 by Carona. Relating to reports of missing children, missing

persons, or attempted child abductions and to education and

training for peace officers regarding missing or exploited

children. .................................................................................... 28

SB 764 by Watson. Relating to a limitation on liability for

prescribed burning conducted on agricultural or conservation

land. ........................................................................................... 12

SB 821 by Schwertner. Relating to the prosecution of certain

criminal offenses involving theft or involving fraud or other

deceptive practices. ................................................................... 33

SB 825 by Whitmire. Relating to disciplinary standards

and procedures applicable to grievances alleging certain

prosecutorial misconduct. ........................................................ 15

SB 831 by Taylor. Relating to a list of mental health, substance

abuse, and suicide prevention programs that may be selected for

implementation by public schools. .......................................... 31

SB 864 by Campbell. Relating to a handgun proficiency course that is

taken to obtain or renew a concealed handgun license. ........... 28

SB 866 by Paxton. Relating to authorizing local governments to

participate in statewide technology centers. ........................... 43

SB 872 by Deuell. Relating to county expenditures for certain

health care services. .................................................................. 22

SB 878 by Patrick. Relating to the disposition of proceeds and

property from criminal asset forfeiture. ..................................... 15

SB 887 by Uresti. Relating to certain correction instruments in

the conveyance of real property. .............................................. 41

SB 904 by Van de Putte. Relating to the adoption of certain voting

procedures and the modification of certain election deadlines,

including those necessary to implement the federal Military and

Overseas Voter Empowerment Act. .......................................... 18

SB 910 by Duncan. Relating to certain election practices and

procedures. ................................................................................ 18

SB 965 by Williams. Relating to the correction of employment

termination reports for law enforcement officers. ................. 28

SB 966 by West. Relating to creation of the Judicial Branch

Certification Commission and the consolidation of judicial

profession regulation; imposing penalties; authorizing fees. ...... 14

SB 967 by West. Relating to the authority of a municipality or

county to retain certain fees. .................................................. 21

SB 984 by Ellis. Relating to the meeting of a governmental body held

by videoconference call. ............................................................. 34

SB 987 by Hegar. Relating to allowing the attorney general to

obtain an injunction against a municipality or county that

adopts prohibited regulations regarding firearms, ammunition,

or firearm supplies. ................................................................... 11

91


SB 1010 by Taylor. Relating to access to certain facilities by

search and rescue dogs and their handlers; providing a criminal

penalty. ..................................................................................... 29

SB 1017 by Paxton. Relating to the funding for and administration

of travel and information operations by the Texas Department of

Transportation. ........................................................................ 44

SB 1035 by Carona. Relating to alcoholic beverage license

applications and fees. ............................................................... 11

SB 1044 by Rodriguez. Relating to access to criminal history

record information by certain entities, including certain local

government corporations, public defender’s offices, and the

office of capital writs, and to an exemption for those offices from

fees imposed for processing inquiries for that information. . 23

SB 1080 by Lucio. Relating to a study on the adequacy and

appropriateness of additional compensation paid to certain

county judges. .......................................................................... 41

SB 1096 by Hinojosa. Relating to the monthly fee a defendant

must pay during a period of community supervision. ............. 8

SB 1114 by Whitmire. Relating to the prosecution of certain

misdemeanor offenses committed by children and to school

district law enforcement. ......................................................... 24

SB 1167 by Hegar. Relating to the creation of a county assistance

district. ...................................................................................... 42

SB 1173 by West. Relating to procedures for the sentencing and

placement on community supervision of defendants charged

with the commission of a state jail felony. ................................ 8

SB 1185 by Huffman. Relating to the creation of a mental health

jail diversion pilot program. .................................................... 31

SB 1189 by Huffman. Relating to the disposition of certain firearms

seized by a law enforcement agency. ......................................... 29

SB 1224 by Taylor. Relating to the use by a property owner

of a common or contract carrier to send a payment, report,

application, statement, or other document or paper to a taxing

unit or taxing official. ............................................................. 37

SB 1237 by Schwertner. Relating to referral of disputes for

alternative dispute resolution, including victim-directed

referrals; authorizing a fee. ..................................................... 14

SB 1256 by Patrick. Relating to the requirements for a sale to be

considered a comparable sale for ad valorem tax purposes. ....... 38

SB 1289 by Williams. Relating to certain business entities engaged

in the publication of mug shots and other information regarding

the involvement of an individual in the criminal justice system;

providing a civil penalty. ......................................................... 15

SB 1292 by Ellis. Relating to DNA testing of biological evidence in

certain capital cases. ................................................................ 16

SB 1297 by Watson. Relating to written electronic communications

between members of a governmental body. ............................ 34

SB 1317 by Whitmire. Relating to persons authorized to perform a

marriage ceremony. .................................................................. 14

SB 1356 by Van de Putte. Relating to human trafficking and its

victims and the care of juveniles who have experienced traumatic

events. ....................................................................................... 25

SB 1368 by Davis. Relating to public information pertaining to

the official business of governmental bodies and to contracts by

certain state governmental entities that involve the exchange or

creation of public information. .............................................. 34

SB 1393 by Estes. Relating to homeland security strategy. Updates

the objectives and requirements relating to the governor’s

statewide homeland security strategy. .................................... 19

SB 1400 by Estes. Relating to the municipal and county regulation

of air guns. ................................................................................ 11

SB 1411 by Deuell. Relating to regulation of traffic in a special

district by a commissioners court. .......................................... 44

SB 1419 by West. Relating to funding for juvenile case managers

through certain court costs and to the establishment of the

truancy prevention and diversion fund. ................................. 25

SB 1437 by Paxton. Relating to authorizing certain persons to file

documents electronically for recording with a county clerk. ...... 41

SB 1451 by Hinojosa. Relating to the prosecution of the

offense of money laundering and to the forfeiture of certain

contraband. ............................................................................. 16

SB 1475 by Duncan. Relating to a jail-based restoration of

competency pilot program. ..................................................... 31

91


SB 1010 by Taylor. Relating to access to certain facilities by

search and rescue dogs and their handlers; providing a criminal

penalty. ..................................................................................... 29

SB 1017 by Paxton. Relating to the funding for and administration

of travel and information operations by the Texas Department of

Transportation. ........................................................................ 44

SB 1035 by Carona. Relating to alcoholic beverage license

applications and fees. ............................................................... 11

SB 1044 by Rodriguez. Relating to access to criminal history

record information by certain entities, including certain local

government corporations, public defender’s offices, and the

office of capital writs, and to an exemption for those offices from

fees imposed for processing inquiries for that information. . 23

SB 1080 by Lucio. Relating to a study on the adequacy and

appropriateness of additional compensation paid to certain

county judges. .......................................................................... 41

SB 1096 by Hinojosa. Relating to the monthly fee a defendant

must pay during a period of community supervision. ............. 8

SB 1114 by Whitmire. Relating to the prosecution of certain

misdemeanor offenses committed by children and to school

district law enforcement. ......................................................... 24

SB 1167 by Hegar. Relating to the creation of a county assistance

district. ...................................................................................... 42

SB 1173 by West. Relating to procedures for the sentencing and

placement on community supervision of defendants charged

with the commission of a state jail felony. ................................ 8

SB 1185 by Huffman. Relating to the creation of a mental health

jail diversion pilot program. .................................................... 31

SB 1189 by Huffman. Relating to the disposition of certain firearms

seized by a law enforcement agency. ......................................... 29

SB 1224 by Taylor. Relating to the use by a property owner

of a common or contract carrier to send a payment, report,

application, statement, or other document or paper to a taxing

unit or taxing official. ............................................................. 37

SB 1237 by Schwertner. Relating to referral of disputes for

alternative dispute resolution, including victim-directed

referrals; authorizing a fee. ..................................................... 14

SB 1256 by Patrick. Relating to the requirements for a sale to be

considered a comparable sale for ad valorem tax purposes. ....... 38

SB 1289 by Williams. Relating to certain business entities engaged

in the publication of mug shots and other information regarding

the involvement of an individual in the criminal justice system;

providing a civil penalty. ......................................................... 15

SB 1292 by Ellis. Relating to DNA testing of biological evidence in

certain capital cases. ................................................................ 16

SB 1297 by Watson. Relating to written electronic communications

between members of a governmental body. ............................ 34

SB 1317 by Whitmire. Relating to persons authorized to perform a

marriage ceremony. .................................................................. 14

SB 1356 by Van de Putte. Relating to human trafficking and its

victims and the care of juveniles who have experienced traumatic

events. ....................................................................................... 25

SB 1368 by Davis. Relating to public information pertaining to

the official business of governmental bodies and to contracts by

certain state governmental entities that involve the exchange or

creation of public information. .............................................. 34

SB 1393 by Estes. Relating to homeland security strategy. Updates

the objectives and requirements relating to the governor’s

statewide homeland security strategy. .................................... 19

SB 1400 by Estes. Relating to the municipal and county regulation

of air guns. ................................................................................ 11

SB 1411 by Deuell. Relating to regulation of traffic in a special

district by a commissioners court. .......................................... 44

SB 1419 by West. Relating to funding for juvenile case managers

through certain court costs and to the establishment of the

truancy prevention and diversion fund. ................................. 25

SB 1437 by Paxton. Relating to authorizing certain persons to file

documents electronically for recording with a county clerk. ...... 41

SB 1451 by Hinojosa. Relating to the prosecution of the

offense of money laundering and to the forfeiture of certain

contraband. ............................................................................. 16

SB 1475 by Duncan. Relating to a jail-based restoration of

competency pilot program. ..................................................... 31

92


SB 1510 by Hinojosa. Relating to the public notice required to be

provided by certain taxing units before adopting an ad valorem

tax rate. ..................................................................................... 38

SB 1512 by Ellis. Relating to the confidentiality of certain crime

scene photographs and video recordings. .............................. 35

SB 1599 by Zaffirini. Relating to county and municipal land

development regulations. ......................................................... 43

SB 1611 by Ellis. Relating to discovery in a criminal case. ....... 16

SB 1729 by Nichols. Relating to an agreement between the

Department of Public Safety and a county for the provision of

renewal and duplicate driver’s license and other identification

certificate services; authorizing a fee. ...................................... 11

SB 1747 by Uresti. Relating to funding and donations for

transportation projects, including projects of county energy

transportation reinvestment zones. .......................................... 44

SB 1759 by Uresti. Relating to the procedures for the appointment

of and the duties of attorneys ad litem in certain suits affecting

the parent-child relationship. ................................................. 23

SB 1773 by Huffman. Relating to the creation of a select interim

committee to review and make recommendations for substantive

changes to ethics laws. ............................................................... 21

SB 1889 by Eltife. Relating to the transport of a mental health

patient who is not a resident of this state. ................................ 31

SB 1907 by Hegar. Relating to the transportation and storage of

firearms and ammunition by concealed handgun license holders

in private vehicles on the campuses of certain institutions of

higher education. ....................................................................... 29

SB 1908 by West. Relating to a study conducted by

the Office of Court Administration of the Texas Judicial System

and the repeal of certain court fees and costs. ........................ 22

SJR 1 (Regular Session) by Williams. Proposing a constitutional

amendment providing for the creation of the State Water

Implementation Fund for Texas and the State Water

Implementation Revenue Fund for Texas to assist in the

financing of priority projects in the state water plan. ............. 45

SJR 1 (Third Called Session) by Nichols. Proposing a constitutional

amendment to provide for the transfer of certain general

revenue to the economic stabilization fund and to the state

highway fund and for the dedication of the revenue transferred

to the state highway fund. ........................................................ 80

92


SB 1510 by Hinojosa. Relating to the public notice required to be

provided by certain taxing units before adopting an ad valorem

tax rate. ..................................................................................... 38

SB 1512 by Ellis. Relating to the confidentiality of certain crime

scene photographs and video recordings. .............................. 35

SB 1599 by Zaffirini. Relating to county and municipal land

development regulations. ......................................................... 43

SB 1611 by Ellis. Relating to discovery in a criminal case. ....... 16

SB 1729 by Nichols. Relating to an agreement between the

Department of Public Safety and a county for the provision of

renewal and duplicate driver’s license and other identification

certificate services; authorizing a fee. ...................................... 11

SB 1747 by Uresti. Relating to funding and donations for

transportation projects, including projects of county energy

transportation reinvestment zones. .......................................... 44

SB 1759 by Uresti. Relating to the procedures for the appointment

of and the duties of attorneys ad litem in certain suits affecting

the parent-child relationship. ................................................. 23

SB 1773 by Huffman. Relating to the creation of a select interim

committee to review and make recommendations for substantive

changes to ethics laws. ............................................................... 21

SB 1889 by Eltife. Relating to the transport of a mental health

patient who is not a resident of this state. ................................ 31

SB 1907 by Hegar. Relating to the transportation and storage of

firearms and ammunition by concealed handgun license holders

in private vehicles on the campuses of certain institutions of

higher education. ....................................................................... 29

SB 1908 by West. Relating to a study conducted by

the Office of Court Administration of the Texas Judicial System

and the repeal of certain court fees and costs. ........................ 22

SJR 1 (Regular Session) by Williams. Proposing a constitutional

amendment providing for the creation of the State Water

Implementation Fund for Texas and the State Water

Implementation Revenue Fund for Texas to assist in the

financing of priority projects in the state water plan. ............. 45

SJR 1 (Third Called Session) by Nichols. Proposing a constitutional

amendment to provide for the transfer of certain general

revenue to the economic stabilization fund and to the state

highway fund and for the dedication of the revenue transferred

to the state highway fund. ........................................................ 80

93


93


PresidentHon. Connie Hickman Navarro County Justice of the Peace

President ElectHon. Don Allred Oldham County Judge Vice PresidentHon. Joyce G. Hudman Brazoria County County Clerk

Immediate Past PresidentHon. Vernon H. Cook Roberts County Judge

Hon. Luanne Caraway Hays County Tax Assessor-Collector Hon. Renee Couch Comal County Treasurer

Mr. Edward A. Dion, CIO El Paso County Auditor

Hon.Laurie K. English Sutton County District Attorney, 112th District Hon. Neil E. FritschCalhoun County Commissioner

Hon. Lazaro Gallardo Hidalgo County Constable

Hon. Roger Harmon Johnson County Judge Hon. Patti C. Jones Lubbock County Commissioner Hon. Teresa Kiel Guadalupe County County Clerk

Hon. Daniel C. Law Caldwell County Sheriff

Hon. Jackie Miller, Jr. Ellis County Justice of the Peace

Hon. Charles Shofner, Jr. Jasper County Commissioner Hon. Sherilyn Woodfin Tom Green County District Clerk Hon. Marc Hamlin, NACo Representative Brazos County District Clerk Hon. Ron Hickman, NACo Representative Harris County Constable

Paul J. SuggDirector, Legislative Department

Laura V. GarciaDeputy Legislative Director

Aurora FloresLegislative Liaison

Nanette ForbesLegislative Liaison

Laura Nicholes Senior Legislative Liaison

Ender ReedSenior Policy Advisor

Rick ThompsonSenior Legislative Liaison

Jamie ChandlerOperations Manager

COUNTY INFORMATION PROGRAM

Bruce BarrGIS Analyst

Tim BrownSenior Analyst

Paul K. EmersonState Financial Analyst

2013 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

LEGISLATIVE DEPARTMENT STAFF

PUBLISHERTexas Association of Counties

EXECUTIVE DIRECTORGene Terry

LEGISLATIVE DEPARTMENT DIRECTORPaul J. Sugg

DEPUTY LEGISLATIVE DIRECTORLaura V. Garcia

CONTRIBUTORS Bruce BarrTim Brown

Jamie ChandlerPaul K. Emerson

Aurora FloresNanette ForbesLaura V. GarciaLaura Nicholes

Ender ReedPaul J. Sugg

Rick Thompson

PRODUCTION David GarciaPaul Guerra

Raul MartinezDirk Ruedas

OUTSIDE SOURCESTexas District & County Attorneys Association

Texas Association of County AuditorsCounty & District Clerks Association of Texas

County Judges & Commissioners Association of TexasJustice of the Peace & Constables Association of Texas

Sheriffs Association of TexasTax Assessor-Collectors Association of Texas

County Treasurers Association of TexasTexas Legislature Online

1210 San Antonio, Austin, TX 78701 • P.O. Box 2131, Austin, TX 78768

(512) 478-8753 • (800) 456-5974 • www.county.org

2013 Legislative Analysis Report83RD LEGISLATURE • REGULAR SESSION

Summary Information on Activities of Interest to County Officials

83RD LEGISLATURE • REGULAR SESSION - county€¦ · Hidalgo County Constable Hon. Roger Harmon Johnson County Judge Hon. Patti C. Jones Lubbock County Commissioner Paul J. Sugg

Documents