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This week's Capitol Watch will conclude the series outlining interim charges assigned to committees in the Texas House of Representatives. The charges I have outlined are for a sampling of committees. You can view a full list of the interim charges at the Texas House of Representatives website at www.house.state.tx.us.
Interim charges are important because they allow citizens to get an idea of issues on which the legislature is focusing and legislation that is likely to be filed during the next legislative session. They also allow citizens who wish to provide input on particular issues the opportunity to participate. If you have any comments or input with regard to any of these interim charges, I encourage you to contact my office or the committee to which the charge has been assigned. You can find contact information for committees of the Texas House of Representatives at www.house.state.tx.us.
This week's column will outline the charges for the House Committees on County Affairs and Licensing and Administrative Procedures.
House Committee on County Affairs:
Examine the advisability and probable impacts of creating a system of graduated ordinance-making authorities for counties with populations over one million based on population densities and unique geographic and environmental needs.
Consider whether clarification or revision is needed to state statutes related to dormancy of office provisions and the abolition of local Constitutional offices.
Review the penalties and enforcement challenges related to public safety and the sale of fireworks.
Study cost drivers of county government functions.
House Committee on Licensing and Administrative Procedures:
Examine the current practice of certain occupations, and determine whether these occupations pose any significant threat to the health, safety and welfare of the general public to the extent that increased regulation is needed.
Review ways to make Texas' racetracks more attractive to Texans and tourists in order to keep them viable and producing tax revenue for the state.
Research ways to improve the enforcement of existing laws against underage drinking. Recommend any statutory changes needed to combat this problem.
Evaluate the possibility of increased revenues, and unintended problems that might result from selling lottery tickets at new alternative locations, and recommend any needed statutory changes.
Monitor the implementation of legislation passed by the 79th Legislature related to the proliferation of bars and "cantinas" in residential neighborhoods, around schools, churches, and daycare centers in counties with a population of 1.4 million or more. Recommend whether this statute should be broadened to apply to other counties in Texas