Bexar County Managers Discuss Key Legislative Bills in Texas Special Session

Bexar County officials are closely monitoring key legislative developments as the Texas Legislature enters its second special session. County Manager Melissa Shannon provided an update on several bills that could significantly impact the county during a recent Commissioners Court meeting.

Among the most pressing issues is Senate Bill 2, which addresses training requirements for smaller counties and allows justices of the peace to waive autopsies during disasters. This bill is currently in a conference committee, with both the House and Senate having appointed members to negotiate its final form.

Another critical piece of legislation, Senate Bill 3, which pertains to outdoor warning sirens in flood-prone areas, has already been sent to the governor for approval. Meanwhile, Senate Bill 5, aimed at securing funding for the NextGen SARA flood warning system, is also in conference, with no updates on additional funding for Bexar County yet.

A potentially costly bill, House Bill 17, could require taxing entities to mail notices to every tax account holder instead of posting them in newspapers. Shannon noted that there was robust discussion during committee hearings, and while the bill is currently under consideration, there is hope for amendments that would allow for email notifications to reduce costs.

Additionally, Senate Bill 10, which proposes to lower the voter approval tax rate from 3.5% to 1%, is facing challenges. Shannon reported that Senate Republicans are unlikely to support the 1% threshold, suggesting that the bill may either be amended to 2.5% or die in committee.

As the special session progresses, Bexar County officials remain vigilant, advocating for changes that would mitigate financial impacts on local taxing entities. The outcome of these discussions will be crucial for the county's fiscal health and operational capabilities moving forward.