Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas House Bill HB348

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to ethics training for legislators and certain other state officers and employees.

Impact

The bill's enactment would significantly influence the governance landscape in Texas by creating a systematic framework for ethics training. Under HB348, individuals required to undergo this training must complete it within specified timeframes or risk losing their eligibility for salary payments. The introduction of strict compliance measures, such as salary withholding for non-compliance, is designed to encourage adherence to ethics training mandates. It establishes accountability mechanisms that remind state officials of the importance of communal integrity and ethical behavior.

Summary

House Bill 348 focuses on enhancing ethics training requirements for legislators and specific state employees, aiming to promote accountability and ethical conduct within state governance. The bill mandates that members of the legislature, as well as various appointed officials and employees, complete an ethics training course every two years. This training covers compliance with the laws administered by the commission and is an essential step in reinforcing ethical standards among public officials.

Sentiment

General sentiment around HB348 has been supportive among lawmakers who emphasize the necessity of building trust in government by ensuring that all state officials receive comprehensive ethics training. Perspectives on the bill generally point to a collective agreement on the need for improved governance and ethical guidelines. However, there may be skepticism regarding the implementation and practicality of the enforcement mechanisms, particularly the ramifications of withholding salary, indicating a potential area for contention.

Contention

Despite the overall support, concerns have emerged regarding the implications of tying salary to training completion. Critics express that such measures could lead to unintended consequences, such as financial strain on newly elected or appointed officials who may find it challenging to meet training deadlines. Additionally, there could be concerns about the effectiveness of the training itself and whether it will genuinely contribute to reducing ethical violations, rather than simply fulfilling a bureaucratic requirement.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1627

Relating to implicit bias training for justices and judges of state courts, judicial officers, certain court personnel, and attorneys licensed to practice law in this state.

TX SB440

Relating to the completion of sexual harassment prevention training and ethics training to register as a lobbyist.

TX HB5106

Relating to training requirements for certain municipal, county, and school district elected officers.

TX SB2555

Relating to training requirements for certain municipal, county, and school district elected officers.

TX SB11

Relating to measures for ensuring safety and security in public schools, including measures related to the health and safety of public school students and active shooter training for certain peace officers.

TX HB404

Relating to requiring certain employers to provide paid leave to employees; providing civil and administrative penalties.

TX SB799

Relating to benefits for certain first responders and other employees related to illness and injury.

TX HB307

Relating to requiring certain employers to provide paid sick leave to employees; providing administrative penalties.

TX HB5096

Relating to mental health first aid training for certain school district employees and volunteers.

TX HB893

Relating to requiring certain employers to provide paid sick leave to employees; providing administrative and civil penalties.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.