Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HJR81

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Sent toSOS
 
Proposed Const. Amend.
 

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment regarding the dedication by general law of money received by this state and money held in or deposited to an account or fund inside or outside the state treasury and the authorized expenditure or appropriation of money dedicated by general law.

Impact

The proposed amendment is set to take effect on September 1, 2027, but only for appropriations for fiscal years beginning after that date. This means the impact of HJR81 would not be immediate and gives a window for further discussions or adjustments before its implementation. Its provisions are likely to shape the budgetary framework within which state funds are managed, delineating clear channels for financial allocations aligned with public policy goals.

Summary

HJR81 proposes a constitutional amendment that would allow the Texas Legislature to dedicate funds for specific purposes through general law. This change would impact how money received by the state and held in various accounts is appropriated or spent, aiming to enhance legislative control over financial resources. Under this amendment, funds dedicated for specific uses could only be redirected under a new law that is expressly passed by a two-thirds majority in both legislative houses. This stipulation introduces a notable layer of accountability and procedure in the management of state finances.

Contention

While HJR81 is designed to enhance legislative control over state funds, the specifics of how funds are dedicated by general law may ignite debate among lawmakers and the public. Concerns may arise regarding whether this consolidation of control could hinder the state's flexibility in responding to unforeseen financial needs or emergencies. Those opposing the bill may argue that while it adds a layer of oversight, it could also stifle agility in financial management, which is crucial in dynamic economic situations.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HJR41

Proposing a constitutional amendment regarding the dedication by general law of money received by this state and money held in or deposited to an account or fund inside or outside the state treasury and the authorized expenditure or appropriation of money dedicated by general law.

TX HB3461

Relating to the creation and re-creation of funds and accounts, the dedication and rededication of revenue and allocation of accrued interest on dedicated revenue, and the exemption of unappropriated money from use for general governmental purposes.

TX HJR169

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the dedication of certain sales and use tax revenue to a special fund established in the state treasury to pay for water infrastructure in this state.

TX SB1508

Relating to the creation and re-creation of funds and accounts, the dedication and rededication of revenue and allocation of accrued interest on dedicated revenue, and the exemption of unappropriated money from use for general governmental purposes.

TX HJR204

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the use of money in the state highway fund for transit-oriented projects.

TX HJR27

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the creation of and use of money in the Grow Texas fund and allocating certain general revenues to that fund, the economic stabilization fund, and the state highway fund.

TX SJR41

Proposing a constitutional amendment lowering the maximum allowable amount of money in the economic stabilization fund and dedicating certain general revenue to reducing school district maintenance and operations ad valorem taxes.

TX HJR186

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the creation of the junior college endowment fund and dedicating the interest and other investment income from money in the fund to reduce the cost of tuition at public junior colleges in this state.

TX HJR111

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the creation of the Texas severance tax revenue and oil and natural gas (Texas STRONG) defense fund, dedicating the money in that fund to benefit areas of the state significantly affected by oil and gas production, and providing for the transfer of certain general revenues to that fund, the economic stabilization fund, the state highway fund, the oil and gas regulation and cleanup account, the Texas emissions reduction plan fund, and the property tax relief fund.

TX HJR1

Proposing a constitutional amendment creating the state school safety fund to provide ongoing financial support for projects that ensure the safety of public schools in this state and providing for the transfer of certain general revenues to that fund, the economic stabilization fund, and the state highway fund.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.