The bill amends Section 11.060 of the Education Code regarding the process for filling vacancies on the board of trustees of independent school districts. It stipulates that if a vacancy occurs, the remaining trustees are prohibited from filling the vacancy by appointment until the next general election, which must occur no later than the last day of the 18th month after the vacancy arises. Additionally, the bill allows for the option of holding a special election to fill the vacancy, conducted similarly to the district's general election.
Furthermore, the bill introduces provisions that empower property owners subject to ad valorem taxation by the school district to take legal action against the board of trustees for violations of this section. If successful, these individuals can recover damages, attorney's fees, and court costs without needing to complete an administrative grievance process. The bill also waives governmental immunity concerning liabilities created by these new provisions. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.
Statutes affected: Introduced: Education Code 11.060 (Education Code 11)