Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB5182

Filed

3/14/25

Out of House Committee

5/12/25

Voted on by House

Out of Senate Committee

Voted on by Senate

Governor Action

Bill Becomes Law

Caption

Relating to the provision of legal services for, and to the collection and deposit of, civil penalties imposed by and other obligations owed to the Texas Ethics Commission.

Impact

With the establishment of this authority, the Texas Ethics Commission is expected to streamline its processes related to enforcing penalties, which could lead to more efficient collection of fines that are vital in promoting adherence to ethical standards among public officials and candidates. By ameliorating bureaucratic hurdles typically encountered when seeking legal aid, the Commission is likely to improve its efficacy in dealing with infractions, thereby enhancing compliance and accountability in public service.

Summary

House Bill 5182 aims to enhance the operational authority of the Texas Ethics Commission by allowing it to contract with external legal counsel for the collection of civil penalties. This bill amends certain sections of the Government Code to explicitly state that the Commission can utilize appropriated funds without needing approval from the attorney general for engaging outside legal assistance. The bill has broad implications on how the Ethics Commission enforces laws and collects obligations tied to civil penalties for violations under its jurisdiction.

Sentiment

Sentiment around HB 5182 appears to be positive among those who advocate for stronger ethical enforcement and accountability within the Texas government. Supporters argue that this measure is a necessary modernization of the state's approach to ethics, recognizing the complexities involved in enforcing compliance. However, there may be concerns regarding the use of external contractors and the costs associated with these contracts, signaling potential skepticism among fiscal conservatives who prioritize budget efficiency.

Contention

Notable points of contention revolve around the potential implications for accountability and transparency when contracting with outside legal services. Critics may voice concerns that the use of external counsel could lead to conflicts of interest or reduce the degree of oversight from the appointed officials. There are also questions about fiscal prudence and whether funds allocated for this purpose could be better utilized elsewhere.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Election Code

Chapter 1. General Provisions
- Section: New Section
- Section: New Section

Chapter 141. Candidacy For Public Office Generally
- Section: New Section

Chapter 253. Restrictions On Contributions And Expenditures
- Section: 035

Chapter 254. Political Reporting
- Section: 042

Chapter 2. Vote Required For Election To Office
- Section: New Section

Government Code

Chapter 2. Firearm Suppressor Regulation
- Section: New Section

Chapter 571. Texas Ethics Commission
- Section: New Section
- Section: New Section
- Section: New Section

Chapter 2107. Collection Of Delinquent Obligations To State
- Section: 003
- Section: 003
- Section: 003

Chapter 402. Attorney General
- Section: 0212
- Section: 0212

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB2843

Relating to the authorization, licensing, and regulation of casino gaming and sports wagering in this state, to the creation, powers, and duties of the Texas Gaming Commission, to the support of the horse racing industry and reform of horse racing and greyhound racing, and to other provisions related to gambling; imposing and authorizing administrative and civil penalties; imposing taxes; imposing and authorizing fees; requiring occupational licenses; creating criminal offenses.

TX SB895

Relating to the regulation of money services businesses; creating a criminal offense; creating administrative penalties; authorizing the imposition of a fee.

TX HB4611

Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of the health and human services laws governing the Health and Human Services Commission, Medicaid, and other social services.

TX HB2991

Relating to toll collection and enforcement by toll project entities; authorizing an administrative fee; imposing a civil penalty.

TX SB316

Relating to toll collection and enforcement by toll project entities; authorizing an administrative fee; imposing a civil penalty.

TX HB3758

Relating to repealing civil asset forfeiture provisions and establishing criminal asset forfeiture in this state.

TX HB2383

Relating to court deposition and transcription services and fees and to court reporters and certified court interpreters; establishing a civil penalty.

TX HB5232

Relating to civil penalties imposed for violations of the Texas Free Enterprise and Antitrust Act of 1983.

TX HB4

Relating to the regulation of the collection, use, processing, and treatment of consumers' personal data by certain business entities; imposing a civil penalty.

TX HB1844