1. COUNTIES I March 31, 2016

2. Texas has 254 counties, ranging in population size from Harris County with 4.2 million people to tiny Loving County, with a population of only 94. TEXAS COUNTIES

3. LOVING COUNTY

4. LEGAL STATUS Texas Counties are general-law units of local government, that is, units of local government that are limited to those structures and powers specifically granted by state law. How does that compare with cities? Larger cities have the option to become home rule cities.

5. WHAT COUNTIES DO Counties implement state policies and provide services to local residents.

6. LAW ENFORCEMENT Counties enforce state laws, especially in unincorporated areas. They also operate county jails, which house people awaiting trial and persons convicted of minor offenses.

7. Counties operate justice of the peace, county, and district courts. Almost every trial conducted in Texas takes place in a court operated by county government. COURTS

8. HEALTH Counties enforce the state's health laws and provide healthcare services for indigent residents. Under Texas law, counties are required to cover the healthcare costs of residents at or below 21 percent of the federal poverty level ($4,630 a year for a family of four) if those residents do not qualify for other healthcare programs. Can you name a county health facility in Harris County?

9. County governments collect and maintain records of births, deaths, marriages, divorces, and deeds. RECORDS

10. TAX COLLECTION County governments collect a number of taxes and fees on behalf of the state, including charges for license plates and certificates-of-title for motor vehicles.

11. County governments register voters and conduct both primary and general elections for the state. ELECTIONS

12. ROADS & BRIDGES Counties build and maintain roads and bridges.

13. OTHER SERVICES Some counties operate airports or seaports. Counties may also provide their residents with libraries, parks, and recreational facilities. What is the most famous recreational facility operated by Harris County? NRG Stadium. The county also owns the Astrodome.

14. WHAT YOU HAVE LEARNED  What is the constitutional/legal status of counties in Texas?  What services do counties provide?