Harris County commissioners are set to cast their votes on Thursday regarding a proposal that would establish a formal process for labor organizations to advocate for increased salaries and address workplace policies and grievances for county employees.
If approved, this policy would mark a significant milestone as the first of its kind in any Texas county. While some cities and school districts in Texas, such as Austin and the Houston Independent School District, have enacted similar measures, this initiative would provide a structured avenue for county employees to select a labor union of their preference, although final decisions concerning personnel policies and salaries would still rest with the county commissioners.
With nearly 20,000 employees, Harris County stands as the sixth-largest employer in the region. Commissioner Rodney Ellis, who introduced the measure to the five-member commissioners court, highlighted its importance: “It gives them a voice to advocate for good jobs, wages and benefits, working conditions and other needs so that they can enjoy life and dignity.”
Although state law prohibits public employees from engaging in collective bargaining or striking, it does permit representation by labor organizations. Ellis noted that his proposal aims to facilitate communication between labor representatives and county officials regarding such matters.
“This policy just gives workers a true voice, a real seat at the table,” he emphasized.
In Texas, police and firefighter departments are permitted to unionize and engage in collective bargaining. Recently, both departments in Houston achieved notable successes: the Houston Police Officers’ Union secured a nearly 37% salary increase for its members last year, while the Houston Fire Department negotiated a $1.5 billion settlement and labor contract the year prior.
Participation in the labor organization would be voluntary for county employees. Those who choose to join would have the opportunity to vote on which association would represent them. An association would require at least 50% employee support to be selected outright; if no association achieves this threshold, those receiving a minimum of 20% of the votes would progress to a runoff.
Harris County, home to nearly 5 million residents, ranks as the third most populous county in the United States. Ellis expressed hope that other counties in Texas will follow suit with similar policies.
“Harris County workers keep the county running,” said Ellis, whose precinct encompasses both of Houston’s airports and several sports venues and universities. “They fix the roads, keep our parks clean and safe. They respond during emergencies. They make sure government works. They are the essential cog that keeps the third-largest county in the country operating.”
Commissioner Lesley Briones has indicated her support for the policy. “It is a win for our employees and for our community,” she stated. “By empowering workers’ voices and creating a pathway for employee-centered input, we build trust, strengthen our organization, and deliver better results for the Harris County families we serve.”
Should the commissioners approve the initiative, Ellis anticipates that employee concerns will initially focus on salaries and the county’s remote working policy, which currently allows employees to work outside of the office without guaranteeing the option.
While Ellis remains optimistic about garnering support from his colleagues on the commissioners court, Commissioner Tom Ramsey expressed skepticism about the proposal. “We have many issues to focus on in Harris County; we don’t need the distraction of trying to set up a union,” remarked Ramsey, the court’s only Republican member.
Ellis clarified that his proposal does not establish a union. “It professionalizes employees’ (process) to have to be informed of their ability to receive representation before grievance disciplinary meetings,” he said. “This does not allow for collective bargaining.”
