Texas House Bill HB4664

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to authorizing the sale of certain real property by the State of Texas to the Trinity River Authority of Texas.

Impact

The passage of HB 4664 has implications for state law regarding the management and sale of public lands. By facilitating the sale of this specific tract, the bill aligns with the broader goals of optimizing land use and ensuring that the financial benefits derived from state property transactions directly support educational funding. The bill also reflects the ongoing management of lands associated with the Trinity River and their significance to local governance. Notably, the bill reserves to the state all rights to the minerals beneath the property, ensuring that the state retains some control over potential natural resource exploitation post-sale.

Summary

House Bill 4664 authorizes the State of Texas to sell approximately 42.26 acres of real property, which constitutes a portion of the bed of the Trinity River, to the Trinity River Authority of Texas. The bill stipulates that the sale must occur before December 31, 2021, and that the property cannot be sold for less than its fair market value, which will be determined by an independent appraisal conducted by the General Land Office's asset management division. Proceeds from the sale are designated for the permanent school fund in Texas, emphasizing the state's commitment to funding education through state land transactions.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 4664 appears to be generally positive among lawmakers, especially those focused on education funding. Supporters recognize the potential financial benefits for the permanent school fund and agree that the sale of state land, if executed at fair market value, is a prudent measure. There is, however, a recognition of the importance of environmental stewardship related to river management, which could spark discussions on the ecological impact of transferring land ownership. Legislators seem to advocate for a balance between financial management and environmental considerations.

Contention

While there is support for the bill regarding its financial implications, the sale of land near a significant natural feature such as the Trinity River may raise environmental concerns. Opponents could argue that any such sale could lead to adverse effects on local ecosystems if not managed properly. The lack of public inputs into the decision-making process for land sales could also be viewed as a point of contention among certain community members who may feel that their interests are not adequately represented in legislative actions related to local natural resources.