Texas House Bill HB2745

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to the preparation of government growth impact statements for rules proposed by state agencies.

Impact

The incorporation of government growth impact statements is expected to bring a higher degree of accountability and transparency to the regulatory process within Texas's government. By formally assessing the implications of regulatory changes, the bill seeks to minimize unforeseen administrative overhead and foster more informed decision-making. Agencies will need to present clear evaluations of how proposed rules might impact staffing, finances, and economic activity, compelling them to critically analyze their regulatory frameworks before implementation.

Summary

House Bill 2745 introduces the requirement for state agencies to prepare government growth impact statements for any proposed regulations. These statements aim to evaluate whether the new rules would create or eliminate government programs, affect staffing levels, or alter future budgetary needs. The bill mandates that the assessment consider both immediate and long-term impacts on the state's economy, providing a structured approach for agencies to articulate the consequences of their rules on governmental operations and resources.

Contention

While the bill's provisions are designed to enhance government oversight, there may be some concerns regarding the potential bureaucratic burden it could place on state agencies. Critics could argue that the requirement for detailed impact assessments may slow down the regulatory process, making it more difficult for agencies to implement necessary changes in a timely manner. Furthermore, there might be contention around how these impact statements are evaluated and who determines the criteria for assessing economic effects, with implications for the balance of authority between agencies and the legislature.