The Texas Open Meetings Act (“TOMA”) is included in Chapter 551 of the Government Code. It states that governmental bodies must hold open meetings unless there is an authorized reason for a closed session. Public access to the proceedings and decision-making processes of both local and state governmental entities is an essential element of a properly functioning democracy. […]
Due to the close proximity of businesses, entertainment venues, residential areas, and hotels in a metropolitan area, noise complaints are a common occurrence in a big city. Without clear and defined regulations in place for noise levels – including specific hours of operation for music and entertainment venues – these complaints can be a constant source of friction between business owners and those living in or visiting a city.
People are often unaware of all of the rights they possess. An important, but often overlooked, right is a citizen’s right to petition their government. Very few individuals exercise this right, but it is available to everyone and can make a significant impact on communities.
While many people learn about the U.S. Constitution in school, few give it much thought outside of school, and even fewer give the Texas Constitution any thought at all. While the U.S. Constitution applies to the federal government with the states being subordinate, the Texas Constitution (and all state constitutions) sets in writing what the state government can and cannot do with the counties being subordinate.
As a government employee, what do you do if you discover your employer, a government agency or organization, is breaking the law? While you might feel compelled to report your employer to the authorities, you may be equally worried it could cost you your job. Fortunately, government employees who alert authorities to wrongdoings by their employers are offered numerous protections under the Texas Whistleblower Act.
As Texans, we have the right to know what is going on with governmental entities. This not only helps ensure a system of checks and balances, but also serves to keep officials and appointees accountable. However, many Texans are completely unaware of their rights and do not exercise them.
