Texas Senate Bill SB2191

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 3/11/25

Caption

Relating to the creation and re-creation of funds and accounts, the dedication and rededication of revenue and allocation of accrued interest on dedicated revenue, and the exemption of unappropriated money from use for general governmental purposes.

Impact

One of the most notable effects of SB2191 is the overarching authority it grants the comptroller over the dedicated accounts and the public funds. By centralizing the management of these accounts, the bill intends to mitigate any potential misallocation of state funds and ensure compliance with fiscal policies. This change is expected to promote transparency and accountability regarding how state agencies handle collected revenues, thus reinforcing the financial structure within the state’s governance framework.

Summary

SB2191 aims to amend existing state financial regulations concerning the creation and re-creation of funds and accounts, alongside the dedication and allocation of revenue collected by state agencies. Specifically, the bill outlines provisions for abolishing certain funds and accounts created or re-created by legislation from the 89th Legislature, with effectiveness set for September 1, 2025. Through these amendments, SB2191 seeks to streamline the funding processes within state governance and enhance the integrity of revenue allocation, ensuring that funds are appropriately managed and directed towards their intended purposes.

Contention

The bill's provision to abolish various funds and dedicated accounts may raise concerns among stakeholders who rely on those resources for specific programs. Critics could argue that this centralization risks diminishing local control and flexibility in funding decisions that cater to unique community needs. Some may view the provisions surrounding the allocation of interest and earnings on the general revenue fund as potentially restrictive, thereby hindering local jurisdictions from benefiting fully from accrued revenues. As such, there is likely to be debate around the implications of these changes on lower levels of government and the entities that receive state funding.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

• Chapter 403. Comptroller Of Public Accounts
  • Section: 095

Transportation Code

• Chapter 504. License Plates
  • Section: 6012