Bill > HB4991

This bill modifies Texas Government Code to require additional training for attorneys and public officials regarding open meetings (Chapter 551) and public information (Chapter 552) laws. Specifically, attorneys hired to assist public officials or governmental bodies must now complete a mandatory training course within 10 days of being employed or engaged, and cannot be compensated for this training time unless they are employees of the governmental body. The bill also clarifies that while a public official can designate a public information coordinator, this does not relieve the public official from their own compliance responsibilities. The legislation provides transition periods for existing attorneys and public officials to complete the required training, with deadlines ranging from October 1, 2025, to January 1, 2026, depending on their specific role and current status. The bill aims to ensure that attorneys and officials working with governmental bodies are well-informed about their legal responsibilities under open meetings and public information laws, ultimately promoting transparency and proper administration of government functions.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4991