Texas Government Exam Concepts Flashcards

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the Texas Legislature and government structure, enhancing understanding and aiding exam preparation.

Bicameralism

Having a legislative assembly composed of two chambers or houses.

Regular Session

The 140-day period, occurring only in odd-numbered years, during which the Texas legislature meets to consider and pass bills.

Special Session

A legislative session called by the governor that addresses an agenda set by him or her and that lasts no longer than 30 days.

Per Diem

Daily payment to a public official engaged in state business.

Constituent

A person who is represented by an elected official.

Single-member District

A district in which one official is elected rather than multiple officials.

Gerrymandering

The practice of manipulating the boundaries of district maps to favor one party or group.

Redistricting

The process of redrawing election districts and redistributing legislative representatives; usually happens every 10 years to reflect shifts in population.

Local Bill

A bill affecting only units of local government.

General Bill

A bill that applies to all people and/or property in the state.

Special Bill

A bill that grants exemptions from state law for particular entities.

Resolution

An expression of opinion on an issue by a legislative body.

Veto

The power of the governor to turn down legislation.

Impeachment

The formal charge by the House of Representatives that leads to a trial in the Senate and possibly to the removal of a state official.

Attorney General

The chief lawyer for the state, primarily concerned with civil legal matters.

Sunset Advisory Commission

A commission that reviews the effectiveness of state agencies and recommends whether they should continue to operate.

Capital Appreciation Bond (CAB)

A long-term bond primarily used by school districts to raise revenue, often with high interest.

User Fee

A fee paid for public goods and services, such as water or sewage service.

Judicial Campaign Fairness Act

A legislative act that places limits on campaign contributions to judicial candidates.

Merit Selection

A judicial reform method where judges are nominated by a commission and then appointed.

Preemption

The power of the state government to override local ordinances.

Constitutional County Judge

The presiding officer of the county commissioners' court, responsible for administration and some judicial duties.

Commissioner of Agriculture

An elected official responsible for enforcing agricultural laws.

General Law City

A city governed by state statutes, typically with less autonomy than home-rule cities.

Home-Rule City

A city that operates under its own charter, providing it significant independence from state control.

Sheriff

The chief law enforcement officer within county government.

Justice of the Peace

A local court judge who typically handles minor civil and criminal matters.