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 prohibits remaining trustees from filling a vacancy by appointment and mandates that the vacancy must be filled at the district's next general election or through a special election, as outlined in the new provisions. 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.
Additionally, the bill introduces new legal provisions allowing property owners subject to ad valorem taxation by the school district to take legal action against the board for violations of this section. If successful, they 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)