Texas House Bill HB4044

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/30/09

Caption

Relating to the compensation for an election judge or clerk for a primary or runoff primary election.

Impact

The passage of HB 4044 would directly affect the remuneration structure for election officials, potentially increasing the attractiveness of these positions. By raising the minimum pay, the bill aims to incentivize participation as election judges and clerks, which are critical for the smooth operation of elections. This financial adjustment could lead to better-trained and more motivated personnel at election sites, thereby enhancing the overall electoral process in Texas.

Summary

House Bill 4044 pertains to the compensation of election judges and clerks for primary and runoff primary elections in Texas. The bill amends Section 32.091 of the Election Code to establish a minimum hourly rate of $10 for these officials. This represents a modification from previous provisions that stipulated a lower rate if the election officer had attended the necessary training program. The adjustment signifies a move to ensure fairer compensation for individuals serving in these vital roles during elections.

Contention

While the specifics of the bill did not reveal significant points of contention during discussions, any changes to compensation for government roles typically invite scrutiny regarding budgetary implications. There could be debates concerning the allocation of state funds and whether increasing compensation might lead to a broader discussion about employee pay structures in public service positions. As with many bills relating to election administration, stakeholders may voice differing views based on their experiences and concerns about election integrity and access.