Texas Senate Bill SJR17

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the establishment of the Texas Research Consortium to Cure Infectious Diseases (TRANSCEND) and authorizing the issuance of general obligation bonds to fund collaborative research on and development of infectious disease treatments and cures for humans.

Impact

Should SJR17 be enacted, it will significantly affect state legislation relating to public health and research funding. The creation of TRANSCEND would enable Texas to centralize efforts in combating infectious diseases through a structured approach to funding and research. The consortium is authorized to issue up to $3 billion in general obligation bonds, which would create a substantial influx of resources directed toward innovative healthcare solutions. This measure could help Texas improve its readiness for public health crises, fostering a proactive stance in managing infectious diseases.

Summary

SJR17 proposes a constitutional amendment to establish the Texas Research Consortium to Cure Infectious Diseases (TRANSCEND). The amendment seeks to create a body that will oversee grants for research and the development of treatments and cures for infectious diseases. It emphasizes collaborative efforts to prepare for outbreaks and to develop educational initiatives aimed at public engagement regarding infectious health issues. The bill outlines specific functions for the consortium, including the requirement to establish standards and oversight structures to ensure accountability in the usage of funds allocated for such research activities.

Contention

There could be points of contention surrounding the funding mechanisms and the potential reliance on general obligation bonds, which might raise concerns among taxpayers regarding financial liability. Furthermore, the effectiveness of state-run initiatives compared to private sector innovations could be debated, raising questions about oversight and administration. Stakeholders might express differing opinions on the role of the state in healthcare initiatives, especially regarding the potential for governmental overreach in health-related domains, particularly in leveraging public funds for research that could also engage private entities.