Honorable Jeff Leach, Chair, House Committee on Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence
FROM:
John McGeady, Assistant Director Sarah Keyton, Assistant Director Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:
HB4715 by Murr (Relating to the creation of magistrates in Kerr County.), As Introduced
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
The bill would amend the Government Code to allow for the appointment of one or more part-time or full-time magistrates in Kerr County. The bill outlines the magistrate's appointment and establishes the position's jurisdiction and judicial acts. Based on the analysis of the Office of Court Administration, duties and responsibilities associated with implementing the provisions of the bill could be accomplished by utilizing existing resources.
Local Government Impact
Based on information in the Texas Association of Counties 2018 salary survey, the salary of a Kerr County Justice of the Peace is $55,691 each year. A new magistrate position would be entitled to a salary of no less than this amount with Kerr County being responsible for these costs and other office-related expenses.
Source Agencies:
212 Office of Court Administration, Texas Judicial Council