BWH H.B. 901 75(R)BILL ANALYSIS


COUNTY AFFAIRS
H.B. 901
By: Patterson, L.P. "Pete"
3-5-97
Committee Report (Unamended)



BACKGROUND 

Since the creation of the Hopkins County Hospital District, some issues
have arisen, which necessitate legislative action.  In the past, the board
of directors have been mostly Sulphur Springs residents.  By increasing
the number of directors, the board anticipates more community
representation.  Increasing the current two year term to three years will
give members extra time to get acquainted with the workings of the
hospital.  Three year terms also will coordinate with the terms of office
of other elected public officials in the area.  The petition requirement
to run for office is cumbersome and is not required for any other public
entity in the county. 

PURPOSE

To increase the number of the directors from five to seven, to increase
the term of office of a director from two to three years, and to eliminate
the petition requirement to run for the office of director. 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any
additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency or
institution. 

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1.  Amends Chapter 43, Section 3, Acts of the 57th Legislature,
1st Called Session, 1961, by: 
 1) changing the number of the directors from five to seven;
 2) changing the term of office of a director from two to three years; and
 3) eliminating the petition requirement.

SECTION 2.  Application of the Act.

SECTION 3.  Emergency clause.