DALLAS, TX — The Texas Public Policy Foundation (TPPF) has filed a lawsuit against the city of Dallas, arguing that more than 80 local ordinances violate the state’s 2023 Texas Regulatory Consistency Act, which limits cities from enacting regulations that go beyond state law, according to The Dallas Morning News.
Filed Wednesday in Denton County District Court, the suit represents residents Haley Kyles, Tamara Brown, and Daniel Rodriguez. The plaintiffs seek to void 83 city ordinances, which they say conflict with the act — dubbed the “Death Star” law by opponents. The measure’s supporters, including Gov. Greg Abbott, argue it prevents a burdensome “patchwork” of local rules that hinder business.
“Cities don’t get to pick and choose which state laws they follow,” said TPPF attorney Matthew Chiarizio, calling Dallas’s local codes “duplicative” and “unnecessary.” Among the targeted ordinances are those establishing labor protections, noise limits, LGBTQ+ anti-discrimination measures, and living wage rules for contractors.
A city spokesperson declined to comment, citing pending litigation.
The law’s legality was previously challenged by Houston, San Antonio, and El Paso, but a July appellate ruling reinstated it, paving the way for the Dallas case. If successful, the lawsuit could sharply curtail municipal authority over areas such as gas drilling, ride-hailing regulations, and valet services.
Critics argue the law undermines local autonomy and worker protections, while supporters say it safeguards statewide economic consistency.
Sources:
Discover more from News Facts Network
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
