Texas House Bill HB4281

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to a county motor fuels tax in certain counties for mobility improvement projects; providing authority to impose the tax, issue bonds, and impose penalties.

Impact

The proposed legislation would amend the Local Government Code to facilitate the creation of a county mobility improvement fund, ensuring that the generated tax revenues are channeled directly into mobility-related projects. Counties are mandated to establish segregated accounts for each approved project and are permitted to use these funds for planning, construction, and operation costs. By allowing counties to issue bonds, the bill enables them to cover upfront costs for large projects, thereby also easing financial pressure on local budgets.

Summary

House Bill 4281, titled the Texas Local Option Transportation Act, introduces a motor fuels tax for certain counties specifically allocated for mobility improvement projects. This bill grants counties the authority to impose a tax that can subsequently be utilized for funding various infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing mobility which includes public highways, pedestrian facilities, transit systems, and advanced rapid transit systems. The bill is designed to provide local governments with a new revenue stream to finance essential transportation upgrades and enhancements.

Contention

A point of contention surrounding HB 4281 involves the potential implications for state and federal transportation funding. While the bill includes provisions to prevent counties from facing reductions in transportation funds due to the imposition of the motor fuels tax, concerns have been raised regarding the efficacy and accountability of how these funds are administered. Additionally, some legislators argue the bill could lead to inconsistencies in tax implementation across various counties, which may complicate transportation management in regions that rely on more centralized funding and regulations.