New Election Law Affects Schools, Counties and Cities

Monday, November 27, 2006
Contributed by: Andrea L. Slater Gulley

The recently passed House Bill 1 resulted in a major election change for Texas school districts: required joint elections. Under the new Texas Education Code sec. 11.0581, school districts must conduct trustee elections on the same dates as: (a) the election for the members of the governing body of a municipality located in the school district; or (b) the general election for state and county officers. The new law requires these elections to be held jointly with either the county or city, as applicable, and in accordance with Chapter 271 of the Texas Election Code. The new law also requires the use of joint polling places and gives school districts the authority to lengthen or shorten board of trustee terms of office in order to comply with the new provision.

Interestingly, even though this new statute is located in the Texas Education Code and is directed at school districts, it results in an election change for many Texas counties and cities. The Underwood Law Firm regularly counsels government entities on election issues, including joint elections agreements, and is prepared to assist government entities throughout the state in complying with all aspects of this new law.

This column is published for informational purposes only. It should not be construed as legal advice and is not intended to create an attorney client relationship. The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the author's law firm or its individual partners.