Texas House Bill HB1917

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/1/11
• Introduced: 2/28/11
• Voted on by House: 4/18/11
• Refer: 3/7/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/6/11
• Report Pass: 3/31/11
• Voted on by Senate: 5/10/11
• Engrossed: 4/18/11
• Governor Action: 5/21/11
• Refer: 4/26/11
• Enrolled: 5/11/11
• Passed: 5/21/11

Caption

Relating to the removal of appointed emergency services commissioners by a commissioners court.

Impact

The passage of HB1917 is expected to enhance the accountability of appointed emergency services commissioners, thereby improving the governance of emergency services. By specifying the grounds for removal and detailing the procedural aspects, the bill empowers commissioners courts to maintain oversight and ensures that commissioners can be held accountable for their conduct. This legislative change has the potential to strengthen public trust in emergency services management and effectiveness.

Summary

House Bill 1917 addresses the procedural framework surrounding the removal of appointed emergency services commissioners by a commissioners court in Texas. It proposes amendments to the Health and Safety Code, specifically Section 775.0422, to specify that a commissioners court may remove a board member for incompetency, official misconduct, or other defined misconduct by a majority vote after a hearing. This change seeks to provide a clearer basis for removal and streamline the process for boards involved in emergency services operations.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding the bill likely center on the balance of power between local governance and the administrative authority vested in emergency services boards. Some stakeholders may express concerns that increased power for the commissioners court might lead to political motivations behind removals, which could hinder the operational independence of emergency services. Others might argue that such measures are necessary to protect the community's welfare and ensure that emergency service operations remain efficient and responsive.