Sunset shines a light on state agencies and programs to see if they are still relevant in a changing world. If the answer is yes, Sunset recommends improvements to make them more effective and efficient. If the answer is no, Sunset recommends abolishing the agency or transferring its functions to another agency with related functions. Learn how the Sunset process can have major impacts on state government.
Sunset Staff Evaluation
Sunset staff performs extensive research and analysis to evaluate the need for, performance of, and improvements to the agency under review.
Sunset Commission Staff
- Reviews agency’s self-evaluation report
- Receives input from interested parties
- Evaluates agency and identifies problems
- Develops recommendations
- Publishes staff report
Sunset Commission Deliberation
The Sunset Commission conducts a public hearing to take testimony on the staff report and the agency overall. The Sunset Commission conducts a second meeting to vote on which changes to recommend to the Texas Legislature.
Public Hearings
- Sunset staff presents its report and recommendations
- Agency presents its response
- Sunset Commission hears public testimony and receives written comments
- Sunset Commission meets again to consider and vote on recommendations
Legislative Action
The Texas Legislature considers Sunset's recommendations and makes final decisions.
Texas Legislature
- Sunset bill on an agency is drafted and filed
- Sunset bills go through normal legislative process
- The Senate and the House conduct committee hearings and debate the bill
- Bill passes or fails adoption
- Governor signs, vetoes, or allows bill to become law without signature