Texas Senate Bill SB37

Texas 2021 - 87th 3rd C.S.

Caption

Relating to approval of certain land development applications by a municipality or county.

Impact

If enacted, SB37 will significantly impact local land use regulations. It stipulates that municipalities can no longer impose prerequisites such as requiring approvals before a person can submit a development plan. This change is intended to expedite development approvals and discourage bureaucratic delays that can hinder real estate projects. Local governments will also be mandated to acknowledge and process applications without undue delay, thus fostering a more efficient regulatory environment.

Summary

Senate Bill 37 (SB37) proposes amendments to the Local Government Code concerning the approval processes for land development applications by municipalities and counties in Texas. Specifically, it establishes restrictions on the powers of municipal planning commissions and county commissioners regarding the prerequisites for submitting and processing development plans or plats. The bill aims to streamline the application process by preventing local authorities from enforcing additional, unnecessary requirements that could delay the approval timeline for land development.

Contention

The bill has spurred discussions regarding local governmental authority and regulatory control. Supporters argue that the legislation promotes efficiency and economic development by minimizing bureaucratic hurdles for developers. Conversely, opponents may view this as an encroachment on local governance, fearing that it strips municipalities of the ability to enforce regulations that reflect community standards. Debates may arise over the balance between facilitating development and maintaining local oversight on land use practices.