Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas House Bill HB3297

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to an annual state budget and legislative budget sessions in even-numbered years and to political contributions made during a legislative session.

Impact

The implications of this bill may significantly influence state financial governance and legislative practices. By instituting a dedicated budget session, this bill could enhance the legislature's capability to focus on fiscal issues, allowing for more thorough examination and debate over state appropriations. Moreover, the amendments to political contributions during legislative sessions aim to curb potential conflicts of interest by placing stricter controls on fundraising activities during these critical periods, reinforcing integrity in the legislative process.

Summary

HB3297 seeks to amend the Government Code to establish a framework for an annual state budget and legislative budget sessions occurring in even-numbered years. It aims to modify the timing of legislative sessions to mandate that the legislature convene for budget discussions in April of even-numbered years, thereby providing a dedicated timeframe for budgetary considerations separate from regular legislative activities. This change is intended to streamline the budgeting process and improve fiscal oversight by creating a clearer distinction between general legislative operations and budgetary matters.

Contention

However, the bill has generated some discussion regarding its potential limitations on legislative flexibility. Critics may argue that a rigid budget timeline could constrain lawmakers' ability to respond to changing financial conditions and emergencies that arise throughout the year. There might also be concerns about the effectiveness of controlling political contributions within this new framework, as critics may see it as a way to create a less transparent process that still allows for significant influence through political financing.

Companion Bills

TX HJR103

Enabling for Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for an annual state budget and annual legislative sessions for budget purposes.

Previously Filed As

TX HB561

Relating to an annual state budget and legislative budget sessions in even-numbered years and to political contributions made during a legislative session.

TX HJR33

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for an annual state budget and annual legislative sessions for budget purposes.

TX HR2293

Honoring the Legislative Budget Board for its work during the 88th Legislative Session.

TX HB1519

Relating to the making and acceptance of political contributions during a special legislative session; creating a criminal offense.

TX SB710

Relating to the making and acceptance of political contributions during a special legislative session; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB3927

Relating to reports by the Legislative Budget Board regarding the General Appropriations Act and other fiscal actions taken by the legislature and each general appropriations bill proposed by the legislature.

TX SB1616

Relating to reports by the Legislative Budget Board regarding the General Appropriations Act and other fiscal actions taken by the legislature and each general appropriations bill proposed by the legislature.

TX HB3258

Relating to a report by the Legislative Budget Board on the reliance by this state on certain dedicated revenue for purposes of budget certification.

TX SB1735

Relating to a report by the Legislative Budget Board on the reliance by this state on certain dedicated revenue for purposes of budget certification.

TX HR2298

Commending the staff of the Legislative Reference Library for their work during the 88th Legislative Session.

Similar Bills

TX HB561

Relating to an annual state budget and legislative budget sessions in even-numbered years and to political contributions made during a legislative session.

TX HB641

Relating to an annual state budget and legislative budget sessions in even-numbered years and to political contributions made during a legislative session.

TX HB892

Relating to an annual state budget and legislative budget sessions in even-numbered years and to political contributions made during a legislative session.

TX HB68

Relating to an annual state budget and legislative budget sessions in even-numbered years and to political contributions made during a legislative session.

TX SB309

Relating to an annual state budget and legislative budget sessions in even-numbered years and to political contributions made during a legislative session.

TX HB162

Relating to an annual state budget and legislative budget sessions in even-numbered years and to political contributions made during a legislative session.

TX HB136

Relating to an annual state budget and legislative budget sessions in even-numbered years and to political contributions made during a legislative session.

TX HB542

Relating to an annual state budget and legislative budget sessions in even-numbered years and to political contributions made during a legislative session.