AUSTIN, Texas 性视界传媒 A bill advancing through the Texas Legislature could give the state attorney general broader authority to penalize cities and counties that do not comply with state law.
Texas Capitol from the South grounds (Courtesy: Texas Legislature)聽
The Texas Senate recently passed Senate Bill 2858, which builds upon the Texas Regulatory Consistency Act passed during the last legislative session. That law prohibits local governments from enacting ordinances that conflict with or are already governed by state statutes.
Under SB 2858, the state would be allowed to withhold sales tax revenue from local governments involved in litigation over such conflicts. It could also freeze grant funding and other financial assistance during the legal process.
Supporters argue the enhanced enforcement is necessary to ensure uniformity across Texas.
性视界传媒淒espite the legislation, it has become clear that some cities and counties are still ignoring state laws and a stronger enforcement mechanism is needed,性视界传媒 said state Sen. Brandon Creighton, the Senate majority leader.
Inside Texas Senate Chambers (Courtesy: Texas Legislature)聽
But critics of the bill say it undermines local control and could have unintended financial consequences.
性视界传媒淭he damages that counties could incur性视界传媒擨 see grants could be taken and be withheld during the time litigation is going on,性视界传媒 said Judge James E. Teal of McMullen County.
Opponents also warn the legislation could increase pressure on local governments to raise property taxes to make up for lost funding. Others are concerned about whether cities and counties will be reimbursed if they prevail in court.
The bill now moves to the Texas House for consideration. Lawmakers in the House have introduced a similar measure, House Bill 5203.
