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This Austin Update will summarize Propositions #4 and #5 on the November 6 Constitutional Amendment ballot.
PROPOSITION #4: FIREFIGHTERS' PENSION COMMISSIONER'S TERM: The fire fighters' pension commissioner is currently appointed by the governor for a two-year term. This proposal requires a constitutional amendment to change to the four year term since the Constitution states that appointments made by the Governor are for two years unless otherwise specified.
Proponents say: A proposed lengthening of the term from two to four years would reduce changes in management and lessen disruptions to the Retirement Fund.
Opponents say: Other state officials are appointed by the governor for two-year terms. Extending the term of the fire fighters' pension commissioner to four years also would reduce the Senate's oversight authority through the confirmation process.
PROPOSITION #5: DONATING FIREFIGHTING EQUIPMENT TO MEXICO: The Texas Constitution does not allow cities to donate items to other countries. Proposition 5 would authorize a city to donate outdated or surplus equipment to poorer countries.
Proponents say: The Dallas Fire Department wishes to make donations to Mexico. This would be a helpful goodwill gesture to Mexico, a country that is in desperate need of firefighting equipment.
Opponents say: Some fire departments in Texas and in bordering states do not have enough equipment. Local governments should be given priority when equipment is ready to be donated before it is sent to a foreign country.
For more information on all the propositions, access the Secretary of State's web page at www.sos.state.tx.us and under "Hot Topics," click on "Constitutional Amendments."
State Representative Ron Clark
P.O. Box 2910
Austin, TX 78768-2910
(903) 893-9426 * (512) 463-0474
(512) 475-3767 (fax)
ron.clark@house.state.tx.us
http://www.grayson.edu/district62/RonClark.html
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