Expressing the intention of the Texas Legislature not to implement the federal REAL ID Act of 2005.
Impact
If enacted, the resolution would reaffirm Texas's stance against the adoption of a federally standardized ID system, maintaining the state's autonomy over its identification processes. This decision reflects ongoing legislative discussions about the implications of federal mandates on state governance and budgets. By rejecting the REAL ID Act, Texas aims to avoid an increase in state spending without legislative support, thus preserving fiscal resources for other essential services that may be more critically needed.
Summary
HCR180 is a concurrent resolution introduced by the Texas Legislature expressing the intention of the state to refuse to implement the federal REAL ID Act of 2005. The REAL ID Act requires all states to provide standardized identification documents that meet federal guidelines, effectively imposing an unfunded mandate on state governments. The introductory language of the resolution outlines the extensive financial implications of implementing the Act, estimating initial costs at approximately $9.9 billion, with inadequate federal funding to support these expenses. The state positions itself against the Act, citing numerous concerns regarding both costs and privacy.
Contention
The bill raises notable contention regarding privacy and data security. Opponents of the REAL ID Act have voiced concerns that the Act would necessitate the creation of integrated statewide databases accessible by federal authorities, without clear standards or controls established to prevent data breaches. Legislators argue this could inadvertently create vulnerabilities, increasing the risk of identity theft rather than improving national security as intended. Furthermore, the resolution aligns with a broader national trend, as multiple states continue to question federal overreach and its implications for local governance.
Urging Congress to amend federal law to allow states to provide for the consolidation of federally funded workforce development services with federally funded social safety net services.
Relating to measures for ensuring public school safety, including the development and implementation of purchases relating to and funding for public school safety and security requirements and the provision of safety-related resources.
Relating to the development and implementation of the Live Well Texas program to provide health benefit coverage to certain individuals; imposing penalties.
Expressing support for the Texas attorney general to bring an action against a federal agency to assert any claim the attorney general determines is justiciable to prevent the agency from violating federal law.
Relating to the authorization, licensing, and regulation of casino gaming and sports wagering in this state, to the creation, powers, and duties of the Texas Gaming Commission, to the support of the horse racing industry and reform of horse racing and greyhound racing, and to other provisions related to gambling; imposing and authorizing administrative and civil penalties; imposing taxes; imposing and authorizing fees; requiring occupational licenses; creating criminal offenses.
Relating to the establishment and implementation by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs of the Texas Tenant Readiness and Landlord Incentive Pilot Program.
Relating to the development and implementation of the Live Well Texas program and the expansion of Medicaid eligibility to provide health benefit coverage to certain individuals; imposing penalties.