The words "You Ask, We Answer" over two puzzle pieces labeled "Q" and "A" as well as the TSLAC logo.

Methods of Destruction for Local Government Records on Paper

When local government records on paper have reached the end of their life cycle, how can they be destroyed? The Local Government Records Act (LGRA) sets specific parameters. (LGC Sec. 202.003) Note: State law does not set requirements for the methods state agencies and public universities should use to destroy their records on paper. However,…

Stacked newspapers next to the words News You can Use and the TSLAC logo.

Registration Open! – Records Management Basics

SLRM will conduct free introductory records management courses via Zoom for state agencies and local governments. These classes are free for Texas government employees. Visit our training page for registration instructions. NOTE: Your registration may be delayed as we review and approve registrants. If you have any questions, please reach out to rm_trng @ tsl.texas.gov.…

The words "You Ask, We Answer" over two puzzle pieces labeled "Q" and "A" as well as the TSLAC logo.

Records Disposition Experience: Analyst Edition!

Disposition of records is a common and essential task among Records Management Officers (RMOs). However, at some point, RMOs will encounter the difficult task a step above regular disposition: getting rid of records that have been stashed away for decades. Nobody knows the content of the boxes or electronic files, and those who made them…

A fork in a woodland path.

Transferring Local Government Records

At the end of a record’s life cycle, destruction is the most common end. But there is another path: transferring the record to another entity for long-term preservation. For records with historical value, this may be an excellent option. So, how can local governments transfer their records? The Local Government Code spells out the conditions…

How Does Records Management Benefit Us, Anyway?

by Brianna Cochran By now, you’re probably aware your government is legally required to comply with records management laws. Though it is often difficult to motivate yourself, colleagues, or supervisors to implement something just because it’s required. It’s human nature to resist things we perceive as difficult, time-consuming, or obligatory. The records management assistance (RMA)…

The Bucketing Strategy as a Precautionary Solution

Agencies or local governments that are tight on storage space might look forward to speedily carrying out disposition on records that have met their full retention periods, but there are cases when reaching a destruction eligibility date may not put the records manager in the clear to destroy or transfer those records. In those cases,…