Government and Law Concepts✅

Flashcards covering key concepts from lecture notes on Texas government and law, including definitions of terms like representative government, public administration, and legal concepts.

What is representative government?

A system where people elect individuals to represent their interests and make decisions on their behalf, rather than directly making laws themselves.

What is public administration?

The management of government programs and policies to effectively deliver services, such as healthcare, education, and transportation, to the public.

What type of resolution deals with matters related to the rules of the Texas House or Senate?

A simple resolution.

What is a local bill?

A bill that creates or affects a single unit of local government, such as a city, county, or special district.

What is the purpose of the Sunset Review Process for state agencies in Texas?

Each state agency is studied at least once during a 12-year cycle, and the legislature decides whether to abolish, merge, reorganize, or retain that agency.

What principle was first applied in Texas by a federal district court, as a result of Reynolds v. Sims?

The “one person, one vote” principle.

What type of districts have always been required for the election of members of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board?

Single-member districts.

Which entity sets or determines legislators' per diem allowances in Texas?

The Texas Ethics Commission.

What is civil law?

The body of law concerning noncriminal matters, such as disputes related to business contracts and personal injury claims.

What is senatorial courtesy in Texas appointments?

Before making an appointment, the governor is expected to obtain approval from the state senator whose district the prospective appointee resides; failure to obtain such approval will probably cause the Senate to “bust” the appointee.

What constitutes a plural executive as defined by the Texas Constitution and statutes?

The governor, elected department heads, and the secretary of state.

What is a veto in the context of the governor's powers?

The authority of the governor to reject a bill or concurrent resolution passed by the legislature.

What is a petit jury?

A trial jury of 6 or 12 members.

What is a felony?

A serious crime punished by fine and prison confinement.