Texas is witnessing a remarkable surge in its urban populations, a trend that positions the state as a beacon of growth and opportunity. Four cities in particular stand out for their rapid expansion, with implications that resonate through the fabric of municipal law...
Creative Representation For Governmental Entities
Municipal Law
Should your city switch from general law to home rule?
Texas cities come in several types, but two of the main ones are general law and home rule. Home rule cities in Texas have more authority and flexibility when it comes to local governance, while general law cities operate under stricter state regulations. If the...
Municipalities and record requests: When is a delay a violation of the law?
The balance is not an easy one. On the one side timely compliance. On the other: legal hot water. When it comes to Texas transparency laws, particularly the Texas Open Meetings Act (TOMA) and the Texas Public Information Act (TPIA), it is essential for municipal...
Texas takes a stand: the clash over municipal cannabis policies
As the national conversation around marijuana legalization continues to evolve, the state of Texas finds itself in a legal showdown with five of its own cities. The attorney general has filed lawsuits against these cities over their adoption of what he deems unlawful...
Municipalities Gain A Brief Pause On Death Star Law
Municipalities across Texas are able to take a collective breath as the state legislature's "Death Star" bill has been placed on hold as it faces legal challenges. The dispute is not on appeal as it makes its way through the Texas judiciary and give municipalities a...
Local workers face the loss of water breaks under HB 2127
Texas heat in the summer is no joke. Many cities and towns throughout the state have regulations enforcing regular water breaks for workers. However, due to the upcoming law that aims to limit the rules created by municipalities, these breaks will no longer exist....
The Death Star Bill: How House Bill 2127 will impact cities across Texas
Radical change is set to come to cities across Texas in the near future as the Texas Legislature has approved a bill that will alter the power of local governments to regulate themselves. House Bill 2127 will create a legal regime whereby the state will be the...
Emerging trends and issues in Texas municipal law: A look to the future
As Texas grows and changes, so do the legal issues facing its cities and municipalities. From evolving technology to changing demographics, many emerging trends and issues will significantly impact Texas municipal law in the years to come. Here's what you should know...
Texas lawmakers seek to limit municipal ordinances
Ordinances allow cities to create and enforce rules that fit the best interests of their local residents. Although ordinances must fit within the bounds of to state regulations, they give municipalities much-needed autonomy so that it is not necessary to appeal to...
New bill would allow municipalities to legalize cannabis
Marijuana is a topic that few municipal leaders thought they would have to address as representatives. The legalization of cannabis is usually left to federal and state authorities. However, a recently proposed bill would grant this power to municipalities. Under...