Paxton Sues Dallas Over Police Funding Ignoring Voter-Approved Proposition U

Attorney General Ken Paxton has unleashed a lawsuit against Dallas city officials for their flagrant disregard of Proposition U, a voter-approved initiative that mandates increased funding for public safety. The lawsuit names the City of Dallas, City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert, and Chief Financial Officer Jack Ireland Jr. as defendants.

Despite a projected excess revenue of $220 million for fiscal year 2025–26, Dallas city leadership has reported only $61 million, an erroneous calculation that excluded significant revenue streams. This mismanagement directly violates the Dallas City Charter and Proposition U, which mandates proper funding for the police department.

In addition to the budgetary shenanigans, Dallas officials have failed to comply with a key provision of Proposition U requiring an annual police compensation survey by an independent firm. Public records show no such survey was conducted.

Paxton emphasizes the importance of fully funding law enforcement in the face of rising challenges. “When voters demand more for law enforcement, local officials must comply,” he said. The lawsuit aims to force Dallas to adhere to its own charter and provide necessary support to police officers.

The suit demands that all unrestricted revenue be included in excess revenue calculations and allocated to police pensions, officer pay, and hiring additional officers as required by Proposition U.

Read the full lawsuit here.

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