Relating to certain state attorneys called into active duty military service.
Impact
The passage of SB910 would directly impact how absenteeism due to military service is handled for state attorneys in Texas. By ensuring that these attorneys can delegate their responsibilities without facing penalties, the legislation protects their positions and maintains the continuity of legal services within their districts. It also aims to alleviate the concerns of attorneys who may feel the burden of their absence could negatively impact their career or financial situation.
Summary
SB910 seeks to amend current regulations concerning state attorneys who are called into active duty military service. This bill clarifies that a state attorney, defined as a district attorney, criminal district attorney, or county attorney, is not considered to have vacated their office when they are mobilized or deployed for military duty. This legislation specifically allows for these attorneys to delegate their responsibilities to other qualified attorneys within their jurisdiction to ensure that the legal obligations of their office continue to be managed effectively during their absence.
Contention
While the bill appears to be a positive step for state attorneys serving in the military, there could be points of contention regarding the adequacy of the delegation provisions. Critics may raise concerns about whether the delegated attorneys will be adequately qualified to handle all the responsibilities assigned to them. Additionally, the bill's language suggests some oversight by the presiding judge of the court’s administrative region, which may invoke debate about how such oversight will be ensured and whether it could create bureaucratic hurdles for the attorney on duty.
Relating to the powers and duties of the Health and Human Services Commission and the transfer to the commission of certain powers and duties from the Department of Family and Protective Services.
Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing the Texas Homeland Security Division and the Border Security Advisory Council, and to compensate persons affected by those threats.
Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing a Texas Homeland Security Division, and to compensate persons affected by those threats.