Bill > HB240

This bill modifies the quorum requirements for county tax levy votes in Texas, specifically targeting counties with a population of 3.3 million or more (which would likely be Harris County, home to Houston). Currently, county taxes can be levied when at least four members of the county commissioners court are present. The bill introduces a new provision that for these large counties, a tax levy can only occur under two conditions: either five members of the court must be present, or four members can be present if the absent member provides a written notice of absence due to illness or another valid reason before the meeting begins. The changes will apply only to commissioners court meetings held on or after the bill's effective date, which will be either immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote in the Texas Legislature or, if that threshold is not met, on September 1, 2025. This bill aims to ensure a more robust decision-making process for tax levies in large counties by requiring either fuller attendance or a documented excuse for absence.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB240