Texas takes transparency seriously. The state’s Open Meetings Act, the roots of which date back more than a half-century, is meant to provide members of the public a window into the actions of their government. Among the key aspects of this act are notice...
Texas Municipal Law Blog
Withholding information from a public request
Under the Texas Public Information Act, all governmental bodies must adhere to strict disclosure rules. That means if a member of the public asks for information that is considered public, you generally must provide it according to the regulations. What if, as a...
Does your plan for 2020 include running for Texas office?
It is that time of year again. The time when people start making goals and plans for the year to come. With the presidential election ahead, more people are thinking about the other seats that will be up for election in 2020.Whether you are considering running for a...
Results of election challenged after missing ballot box found
Election laws are necessarily strict and detailed. Even seemingly minor issues can compromise the legitimacy and accuracy of the process, which is why election officials must be compliant and careful.Unfortunately, people make mistakes. And in the context of an...
Is social media a tool or trouble for your campaign?
Part of a solid campaign strategy involves reaching your constituents where they are. Depending on the people in your area, you may be able to reach people through rallies and door-knocking events, but you may find yourself with a very limited reach.For better or...
How much does it cost to stay out of jail?
The criminal justice system works to hold people accountable for their illegal activities. Given the constitutional rights of Americans, someone who allegedly broke the law must be found guilty to serve the consequences determined by the court handling their case....
First responders now include 911 dispatchers in Texas
Being a first responder is a big job. In an instant, there are people counting on you to help them get emergency care that may, ultimately, save their life.While 911 dispatchers provide an important service to the people of Texas, they were not considered first...
Another reason not to sleep on the job
There are numerous rules and regulations with which government workers must comply. Some of these rules are obvious and widely understood. Others are more obscure, even for employers and employees who seem to eat, sleep and breathe government work. But no matter...
Social media use and public sector employees
Every day, it seems as if there is a new political, cultural, generational or regional controversy. Whatever the disagreement might be, people may have strong feelings about it and want to share those feelings with others.Today, it is easier than ever for people to...
Challenges of managing ethics compliance
In a perfect world, every government worker would know and follow the rules of conduct. There would be no financing violations or conflicts of interest, and there would be little need for elaborate compliance systems.However, the fact is that violations do occur. The...
