Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1570

Filed
3/7/23  
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the sunset review process and certain governmental entities subject to that process.

Impact

The bill's passage could have significant implications for regulatory oversight in Texas. By assigning explicit sunset dates, lawmakers intend to maintain accountability among state agencies, allowing for periodic assessment of their operations and necessity. The bill also reflects a commitment to streamline governmental processes, ensuring that agencies no longer deemed essential are efficiently dissolved or restructured. The changes proposed in HB 1570 are crucial for effective governance and the prudent allocation of state resources.

Summary

House Bill 1570 pertains to the sunset review process affecting certain governmental entities within the state of Texas. This legislative proposal aims to update the schedule and procedures outlined by the Sunset Advisory Commission, ensuring a thorough evaluation of various state agencies' continued existence and effectiveness. Notably, the bill establishes specific sunset expiration dates for several key agencies. For instance, the Texas Civil Commitment Office is set for review by September 1, 2025, while the Texas Education Agency and other educational entities are scheduled for September 1, 2029.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 1570 appears to be supportive, especially from stakeholders who emphasize the importance of regular evaluations for government effectiveness. Testimonies provided during committee discussions mentioned broad backing from professionals advocating for the ongoing regulation of specific agencies, such as the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners. There is an underlying acknowledgment that without such reviews, outdated and less efficient agencies might persist unnecessarily, leading to wastage of resources.

Contention

Despite the general support, there have been concerns raised about the potential implications of the sunset review process itself. Opponents might argue that the pressures of impending reviews could disrupt operations or diminish the effectiveness of agencies as they strive to meet the expectations set forth by the legislature. Thus, while HB 1570 seeks to enhance accountability, the actual impact of regular reviews on agency performance and public services could require further examination and discussion.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Agriculture Code

  • Chapter 1. General Provisions
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section

Finance Code

  • Chapter 1. General Provisions
    • Section: New Section

Government Code

  • Chapter 325. Sunset Law
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 419. Texas Commission On Fire Protection
    • Section: New Section

Health And Safety Code

  • Chapter 771a. Access To Emergency Communications Services In General
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 119. Texas Health Improvement Network
    • Section: New Section

Occupations Code

  • Chapter 151. General Provisions
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 301. Nurses
    • Section: New Section

Special District Local Laws Code

  • Chapter 8502. Brazos River Authority
    • Section: 0021
    • Section: 0021
  • Chapter 9502. Gulf Coast Protection District
    • Section: 0105

Education Code

  • Chapter 7. State Organization
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 33. Service Programs And Extracurricular Activities
    • Section: 254
  • Chapter 61. Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

TX SB1659

Identical Relating to the sunset review process and certain governmental entities subject to that process.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.