Member
| I believe there is an old AG opinion saying that an ADA could not be a school board member because it constituted 2 "positions of emolument" under the Constitution. I had understood emolument to require a paid position but the AG ruled that it had to do with responsibility. That is simply my memory and I would check the AG website. |
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Member
| Check article 16, section 40 of the constitution as a starting point.... |
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Member
| As the holder of an appointive office of a political subdivision of the state (a special district), it is my belief that I could hold an elective office that did not conflict with the duties of my present office(particularly one for which my service would not be compensated). "Any constitutional or statutory provision that restricts the right to hold public office is to be strictly construed in favor of eligibility." Dawkins v. Meyer, 825 S.W.2d 444, 448 (Tex.1992); Willis v. Potts, 377 S.W.2d 622, 623 (Tex.1964). But, it may be accurate to say my current position is incompatible with holding many other offices. See Atty.Gen.Op. GA-0015 (2003). It would not appear the fact that was I appointed rather than elected to possess the powers I currently exercise would make any difference under this doctrine. But, surprise! "The doctrine of incompatibility of office has never been applied where one position is an office and the other is mere employment". LO 94-045. So, I still say, "yes, I can be a city alderman or school board member or similar public servant and keep my current employment" (as long as my employer and the voters agree with me). |
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