Honorable Eddie Lucio, Jr., Chair, Senate Committee on Intergovernmental Relations
FROM:
Ursula Parks, Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:
SB517 by Garcia (Relating to the compensation and per diem compensation of emergency services commissioners in certain counties.), As Introduced
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
The bill would amend the Health and Safety Code to increase the per diem compensation for Emergency Service Commissioners in counties with a population of over three million.
The bill would take effect immediately if it receives a vote of two-thirds of each house. If it does not receive the vote necessary for immediate effect, it would take effect September 1, 2017.
Local Government Impact
According to Harris County, the bill would have no fiscal impact to the county; however, there are 30 Emergency Service Districts in Harris County with each budget set by its board of directors. Commissioner compensation could change from $3,000 per year to $7,200 per year for a possible $21,000 per district per year increase in commissioner fees.
According to information obtained from Emergency Service Districts in Harris County, about half of commissioners take compensation. While some receive the current maximum of $3,000 per year, many receive $50 to $100 per month to coincide with meetings and any additional workdays per month to prepare for meetings and to review district work. These costs are not anticipated to be significant.