Texas House Bill HB2816

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to the deduction of membership fees for correctional employee organizations from a state employee's salary.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2816 will affect state laws regarding payroll deductions specific to organizations representing law enforcement and correctional professionals. By explicitly stating eligibility criteria based on membership size and state employment criteria, the legislation reinforces the role of established employee organizations in advocating for correctional staff rights and benefits. This change may encourage greater membership in these organizations, potentially leading to stronger collective bargaining power.

Summary

House Bill 2816 addresses the deductibility of membership fees for organizations representing correctional employees from state employees' salaries. The bill aims to amend Section 659.1031(b) of the Government Code to define 'eligible state employee organizations' as those comprising at least 2,000 active or retired state employees who are certified or employed by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. This specification aims to support larger organizations which represent correctional staff and enhance their financial stability by simplifying the process of collecting dues.

Contention

Although the bill's objective is targeted at facilitating payroll deductions for correctional employee unions, it could face contention regarding the implications for smaller organizations that do not meet the eligibility criteria. Critics may argue that limiting deductions to larger organizations could undermine the interests of smaller unions or associations that also represent correctional officers but do not have the requisite membership. Furthermore, discussions surrounding public funding for union activities may arise, particularly from lawmakers concerned about the use of state resources for employee organization expenses.