The bill, H.B. No. 51, introduces new provisions regarding the review and approval process for proposed municipal initiatives and referenda in home-rule municipalities. It adds Section 51.080 to the Local Government Code, which mandates that municipalities submit any proposed measures for new ordinances or amendments to existing regulations to the attorney general within five days of receiving a petition. The attorney general is required to determine if any part of the measure violates state law and provide written advice within 30 days, with a possible two-week extension. If the attorney general finds a violation, the municipality cannot hold an election on that measure. However, if the attorney general fails to meet the specified requirements, the municipality must proceed with the election.

Additionally, the bill repeals Section 51.079 of the Local Government Code, which likely contained previous regulations regarding municipal initiatives and referenda. The new provisions will only apply to petitions submitted after the bill's effective date, which is set for the 91st day following the end of the legislative session. This legislation aims to streamline the process for municipalities while ensuring compliance with state law.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Local Government Code 51.079 (Local Government Code 51)