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 remaining trustees may not fill a vacancy by appointment until the next general election, which must occur at the district's next general election or as specified in Subsection (c). Additionally, the bill allows for the option of holding a special election to fill the vacancy, which will be conducted similarly to the district's general election. The timeline for filling the vacancy is also adjusted, requiring it to be filled no later than the last day of the 18th month after the vacancy occurs.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new provisions that empower property owners subject to ad valorem taxation by the school district to bring legal action against the board of trustees for violations of this section. If successful, they may recover damages, attorney's fees, and court costs without needing to complete an administrative grievance process first. The bill also waives governmental immunity from suit to the extent of liability 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)