FORT WORTH, Texas — Tarrant County Commissioners are considering stricter rules for public speakers following recent disruptions during a meeting on inmate deaths at the county jail.
The proposed changes, set for a Jan. 28 vote, would take effect Feb. 4. Key updates include reduced speaking time if more than 20 individuals sign up, a 5 p.m. deadline for submitting comment forms the day before meetings, and expanded authority for the County Judge to enforce decorum.
Under the new policy, behavior such as personal attacks, disruptive actions, and audience signals of approval or disapproval would be prohibited. Violations could result in removal, fines, or criminal charges.
The move comes after arrests during a Jan. 14 meeting addressing jail deaths, including nearly 70 fatalities since Sheriff Bill Waybourn took office.
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