Texas House Bill HJR120

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment to abolish the office of county treasurer of Galveston County.

Impact

If HJR120 is approved by voters during the statewide election scheduled for November 2, 2021, the constitutional amendment would take effect on January 1, 2022, contingent upon a majority vote favoring the amendment within Galveston County. The abolition of this office signifies a notable shift in how county finances and functions may be organized, potentially impacting revenue collection and oversight procedures that were previously under the county treasurer's purview.

Summary

HJR120 is a joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment aimed at abolishing the office of county treasurer in Galveston County, Texas. The proposal allows the Commissioners Court of the county to either hire a qualified individual or designate another officer to undertake the responsibilities that would have been traditionally managed by the county treasurer. This effort is part of a broader movement to streamline county functions and allocate responsibilities in a manner that may enhance efficiency in local governance.

Contention

The proposal to eliminate the position of county treasurer has raised discussions about the long-term implications for local governance in Galveston County. While supporters argue that it could lead to cost savings and more efficient management of county funds, opponents may express concerns about accountability and the potential for reduced oversight over financial practices. This issue reflects broader tensions regarding local government structure and the balance of power within county administration.