Harris County workers will now have a seat at the table in discussions about workplace regulations, grievances and salaries after commissioners approved a new policy allowing labor organizations to advocate on behalf of county employees—a first for a Texas county.

At a glance: Commissioners Court passed the Harris County Consultation Policy March 19 in a 3-1 vote, with Precinct 3 Commissioner Tom Ramsey as the dissenting voice. Judge Lina Hidalgo was absent during the meeting.

Harris County employees will have the option to select a labor union organization to serve as a “consultation agent” on their behalf. Organizations must receive signatures from 20% of eligible county workers to serve as an agent, County Attorney Jonathan Fombonne said.

Some context: State law bans political subdivisions from entering collective bargaining contracts with labor organizations. However, officials from the county attorney’s office told Community Impact the policy does not violate the statute because it creates a consulting framework, not bargaining rights.

The impact: Approximately 5,200 county employees will be eligible to work with the consultants, officials said. 

Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo officials have announced a new dress code for entry, beginning March 17.

Sorting out details: The Rodeo has provided an update on its code of conduct for guests, according to its website.

The following is prohibited:

• Clothing with "objectionable" material, such as obscene language or graphics
• Excessively torn clothing or visible undergarments exposing excessive portions of the skin
• Clothing or other attire of affiliation with a criminal street gang
• Clothing or apparel that intentionally obscures the face, unless worn for cultural or religious reasons or a medical condition