News

Today, Governor Rick Perry signed Senate Bill 1752 (SB 1752), which makes important changes to the Midland County Hospital District's election process. The bill aligns the district's election cycle with that of other local government divisions and also amends several aspects of the district's funding and advertising requirements.

"The changes enacted through this legislation will lead to huge benefits for the Midland County Hospital District," House speaker Tom Craddick (R-Midland) said. "By increasing efficiency and decreasing costs, these new regulations will allow the district to better serve the health needs of Midland County."

SB 1752 moves the hospital district's elections from May to November, aligning its election cycle with that of the area's cities, public schools and other political subdivisions. This coordination allows the hospital district to share the cost of elections with the other political entities instead of bearing the effort of a separate election. Hospital district issues should also enjoy increased attention from higher voter turnout.

Several changes in the advertising and financing process will increase efficiency for the district. The legislation extends the bank depository period from two years to four years. According to district financial personnel, this will decrease costs and time associated with switching to a new bank every two years.

SB 1752 also increases the district's monetary limit for accepting advertising and purchasing contracts without a formal bid process. Currently, the district must go through such a process for all contracts exceeding $10,000. SB 1752 also raises the limit to $25,000, which again saves the district time and money by streamlining the purchasing process.

The district is also now able to donate surplus property or equipment to other entities serving a public purpose, such as another hospital or medical facility. These measures combine to improve the efficiency and efficacy of the Midland County Hospital District.