Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1358

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the sunset review of the Legislative Budget Board and a study by the comptroller on the accuracy of fiscal notes prepared by the Legislative Budget Board.

Impact

The bill introduces a systematic review by the comptroller of the accuracy of fiscal notes prepared by the Legislative Budget Board. This review will be conducted biennially and will compare the estimated costs provided in these fiscal notes against the actual costs incurred by the state in implementing related legislation. A report summarizing the findings will be published by December 1 of each even-numbered year, which could significantly influence how future legislation is assessed for budgeting purposes and how fiscal predictions align with real outcomes.

Summary

SB1358, relating to the sunset review of the Legislative Budget Board and a study by the comptroller on the accuracy of fiscal notes prepared by the Legislative Budget Board, aims to enhance the accountability and transparency of the state's budgeting process. Specifically, the bill amends existing laws to establish a sunset provision for the Legislative Budget Board, requiring periodic evaluations of its effectiveness and continued existence. The agency, unless continued by the legislature, would be abolished on September 1, 2019, thereby ensuring regular scrutiny of its operations.

Contention

While the bill is intended to promote better fiscal management and oversight, it may face opposition regarding the implications of the sunset provision. Critics might argue that the potential for the Legislative Budget Board's abolition undermines the stability of state budgeting processes. Supporters, on the other hand, assert that regular reviews encourage efficiency and accountability, pushing the agency to maintain a high standard in its fiscal estimates and operations. The discussions around the bill will likely also address concerns about the resources and focus required for conducting these evaluations.

Companion Bills

TX HB1841

Identical Relating to the sunset review of the Legislative Budget Board and a study by the comptroller on the accuracy of fiscal notes prepared by the Legislative Budget Board.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3927

Relating to reports by the Legislative Budget Board regarding the General Appropriations Act and other fiscal actions taken by the legislature and each general appropriations bill proposed by the legislature.

TX SB1616

Relating to reports by the Legislative Budget Board regarding the General Appropriations Act and other fiscal actions taken by the legislature and each general appropriations bill proposed by the legislature.

TX HB561

Relating to an annual state budget and legislative budget sessions in even-numbered years and to political contributions made during a legislative session.

TX HB3258

Relating to a report by the Legislative Budget Board on the reliance by this state on certain dedicated revenue for purposes of budget certification.

TX SB1735

Relating to a report by the Legislative Budget Board on the reliance by this state on certain dedicated revenue for purposes of budget certification.

TX HB1084

Relating to a study by the Legislative Budget Board on the cost of providing paid family leave to state employees.

TX HB877

Relating to a study by the Legislative Budget Board concerning the long-term effects of regulating tuition rates and amounts charged by public institutions of higher education.

TX HR2293

Honoring the Legislative Budget Board for its work during the 88th Legislative Session.

TX HJR33

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for an annual state budget and annual legislative sessions for budget purposes.

TX SB96

Relating to a requirement that a public hearing be held on a proposal by the governor or the Legislative Budget Board to affect appropriations.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.