Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB2963

Filed

3/14/25

Out of Senate Committee

Voted on by Senate

Out of House Committee

Voted on by House

Governor Action

Bill Becomes Law

Caption

Relating to the authority of the attorney general to investigate violations of law by certain local governments and to take action against those local governments to enforce the law.

Impact

If adopted, SB2963 would significantly affect the operational capabilities of local governments within Texas. During the investigation period, local entities would face restrictions including withheld state payments, limitations on tax rates, and a prohibition on receiving state grant funds. This enforcement mechanism aims to encourage compliance with state laws, potentially making local governments more accountable but also raising concerns about overreach and centralization of power at the state level.

Summary

Senate Bill 2963, introduced in Texas, aims to bolster the authority of the Attorney General to investigate and act against local governments for violations of law. Specifically, the bill proposes amendments to the Government Code that would establish a framework for the Attorney General to conduct investigations into local government practices and take legal action if necessary. It outlines the definitions related to local governance, including municipalities and counties, and sets forth the guidelines under which the Attorney General can intervene.

Contention

The bill is expected to lead to contentious discussions surrounding the balance of power between state and local governance. Proponents argue that it is necessary for upholding the rule of law and ensuring that local governments adhere to state regulations. Critics, however, may view this bill as a means for state authorities to undermine local autonomy, limiting the ability of municipalities to manage their own affairs and respond to the unique needs of their communities. The provision that penalizes local governments for violations further highlights the potential for conflict and pushback from local leaders concerned about excessive control.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

Chapter 402. Attorney General
- Section: New Section

Companion Bills

TX HB5266

Identical Relating to the authority of the attorney general to investigate violations of law by certain local governments and to take action against those local governments to enforce the law.

Previously Filed As

TX SB648

Relating to the procedure for removing certain prosecuting attorneys for their policies on the enforcement of criminal offenses; providing a private cause of action.

TX HB125

Relating to the enforcement of certain election laws by district attorneys, criminal district attorneys, and county attorneys; providing a civil penalty.

TX HB3491

Relating to whom certain violations of the law by a state or local governmental entity may be reported.

TX HB138

Relating to the enforcement within this state of certain federal laws regarding immigration.

TX SB1246

Relating to authorized investments of public money by certain governmental entities and the confidentiality of certain information related to those investments.

TX HB1489

Relating to the issuance of certificates of obligation by local governments.

TX SB2490

Relating to the issuance of certificates of obligation by local governments.

TX HB2319

Relating to disciplinary action against a peace officer by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement for failure to cooperate with an investigation by a law enforcement agency.

TX HB2519

Relating to law enforcement misconduct and law enforcement interactions with certain detained or arrested individuals and other members of the public, to public entity liability for those interactions, and to the confinement, conviction, or release of detained or arrested individuals.

TX HB1350

Relating to the enforcement of criminal offenses by district attorneys, criminal district attorneys, and county attorneys; providing a civil penalty.