As background, the last time the Ethics Commission was under Sunset Review was in 2013. However, then-Governor Perry vetoed the Commission Sunset bill due to a few provisions that were tacked onto the bill at the 11th hour. Since the Commission is not subject to abolishment, it continues to operate under the existing structure and is currently under review.

Sunset Documents for 2024-2025 Review Cycle

• Staff Report (Nov 2024)
• Executive Summary of Staff Report (Nov 2024)
• Public Comments (including PAAT)
• Self-Evaluation Report (Sep 2023)

We talked with TEC Sunset Project Manager Senaida San Miguel, and she encourages those interested to visit the Sunset website to sign up for the mailing list and to examine the various ways to engage in the Sunset process during the 89th Session.

2024/2025 Staff Report Recommendations

There are three main parts of the Sunset Review process:

1. Sunset Staff evaluation
2. Sunset Commission Deliberation
3. Legislative Action

The Ethics Commission submitted its Self-Evaluation in September 2023 and the Sunset Commission Staff Report was issued last month. Staff recommendations of particular interest include:

• Require TEC to adjust reporting and registration thresholds every 10 years instead of annually.
• Require TEC to categorize violations of law within its jurisdiction according to seriousness.
• Authorize TEC to increase penalties for filers who repeatedly file reports late.
• Require filers to provide supporting records and documentation upon request by TEC.
• Require judicial review of commission decisions to be based on the substantial evidence rule.
• Amend TEC’s Sunset review date to 2037.

PAAT submitted testimony at the December 11, 2024 Sunset hearing and will continue to engage throughout the process.