Texas House Bill HJR76

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the creation of the Texas resilience infrastructure fund to assist in the financing of resilience projects.

Impact

The amendment to the Texas Constitution would empower the Texas Water Development Board to manage and disburse funds from this new resilience infrastructure fund without the need for further appropriation. This significant change puts in place a more streamlined process for funding resilience projects, which can be crucial for tackling the challenges brought by climate change and natural disasters. The establishment of this fund is expected to enhance public safety by ensuring that resources are readily available for flood prevention and damage mitigation.

Summary

House Joint Resolution 76 (HJR76) proposes a constitutional amendment that establishes the Texas Resilience Infrastructure Fund. This fund aims to assist in financing projects that are critical for preventing flooding and mitigating damage caused by severe weather events like rainstorms, hurricanes, and storm surges affecting the state of Texas. The resolution advocates for the creation of a special fund outside the general revenue fund, providing a dedicated financial resource for resilience initiatives.

Contention

While the resolution outlines a proactive approach to disaster preparedness, there may be points of contention regarding resource allocation and the potential impacts on state and local budgets. Critics may argue about the effectiveness of the fund in truly addressing the issues it seeks to mitigate, and whether existing resources within the state are sufficient to handle such initiatives. Additionally, there could be debates surrounding the specific projects that the fund will support and the criteria for funding distribution, ensuring that funds are used effectively and equitably across various communities in Texas.