Honorable Juan Hinojosa, Chair, Senate Committee on Intergovernmental Relations
FROM:
Ursula Parks, Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:
HB3762 by Coleman (Relating to legal services provided by a district or county attorney to county and precinct officials.), As Engrossed
No fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
The bill would amend the Government Code to authorize a county or precinct official to request, in writing, the interpretation of a statute relating to the official duties from the district or county attorney. A district or county attorney would be required to take action not later than the 30th day after the written request is submitted. A county or precinct official, including a county auditor, that is sued for an action arising from the performance of a public duty following the opinion or advice would be entitled to representation.
Local Government Impact
There could be a fiscal impact to a county; however, the amounts would vary and is not anticipated to be significant. Auditors from El Paso, Grayson and Johnson counties indicated no fiscal impact is anticipated. The auditors added that if a county or precinct official is sued for performing an official duty, the official would receive necessary legal advice and representation.