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...
Government Ethics And Compliance
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...
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...
Can an internet broadcast count as an “open meeting”?
In today’s world, going to work can include sitting in a café on the other side of town, or joining a meeting while on the other side of the world. What was once a luxury has become common in more industries and offices.While you may be able to do some of...
What is excluded from the Texas Public Information Act?
The Texas Public Information Act (PIA) allows the public to request large quantities of information about what is going on in the government. Although citizens may see it as a reassurance, it may seem more complicated for your government office.While you may not...
What is the Texas Public Information Act?
Texans are an essential part of the Texas government. The wants and needs of the citizens should be part of every action their elected officials take.Part of the process for Texans being involved in their government includes having information about what is happening...
Making a government meeting open
There is a lot that goes into the everyday business of running a Texas governing body. Whether you are supporting your city or other municipality, it can seem like there is an endless list of obligations and rules for completing those tasks.When it comes time to...
What is the Open Meetings Act?
The people in your city have many different levels of interest. There may be a group that wants to be at every meeting, and there will be others that do not vote and are not interested in government business at all.Whether your residents are interested or not, the...
Hiring interns: Paid versus unpaid
As spring semesters are ending, it is time to consider whether you are going to add interns to your summer and fall support staff. Internships (whether paid or unpaid) can be a mutually beneficial arrangement for both you and for student interns.Internships are an...
Taking a deep dive into Texas code on conflicts of interest
Public service, whether it's fulfilled by someone elected or on the payroll of a Texas municipality, carries certain ethical obligations. The reason why is easy to understand. It can be tempting to abuse political power for financial gain at the cost of the common...
