Relating to the analysis of certain legislative measures making an appropriation or affecting a state tax or fee.
Impact
The implementation of SB698 could significantly alter how legislative appropriations are analyzed and reported in Texas. By requiring the director to prepare a detailed impact statement for any appropriations bill, tax bill, or fee bill, this bill brings a level of scrutiny to fiscal processes that might not have been previously mandated. This is expected to provide lawmakers with crucial data regarding the implications of funding decisions, potentially leading to more informed legislative dialogue and budget decisions in future sessions.
Summary
SB698 aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the legislative process regarding appropriations of state revenue, taxes, and fees. The bill mandates the preparation of impact statements that assess the potential effects of legislative measures affecting state appropriations, taxes, and fees. Specifically, it requires the director to identify any proposed appropriations that would lead to a reduction in total general revenue for impending fiscal years, effectively compelling legislators to analyze how their financial decisions may impact state resources and services.
Sentiment
Overall sentiment surrounding SB698 appears to be positive among those in favor of increased fiscal responsibility and transparency in government. Advocates believe it will help ensure that fiscal measures are carefully evaluated before being enacted. However, there may also be skepticism from opponents who could argue that additional reporting may lead to bureaucratic delays or complicate the legislative process, possibly hindering timely decision-making.
Contention
Notable points of contention include the potential for administrative burden on state agencies responsible for preparing these impact statements, as well as concerns from some legislators who feel that the additional regulatory requirements could introduce constraints on legislative efficiency. Another concern lies in ensuring that impact statements are not merely formalities but are substantive enough to provide real insights into the implications of funding changes.
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.
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.
Relating to an annual state budget and legislative budget sessions in even-numbered years and to political contributions made during a legislative session.
Relating to border protection and economic development services, programs, and other measures, including establishing educational programs and the border protection unit, in this state to address certain issues affecting the border region, including transnational and other criminal activity and public health threats.
Relating to border protection and economic development services, programs, and other measures, including establishing educational programs and the border protection unit, in this state to address certain issues affecting the border region, including transnational and other criminal activity and public health threats.
Relating to border protection and economic development services, programs, and other measures, including establishing educational programs and the border protection unit, in this state to address certain issues affecting the border region, including transnational and other criminal activity and public health threats.
Relating to the procurement by local governments of energy savings performance contracts for certain conservation measures; creating criminal offenses; authorizing a fee.
Relating to agreements authorizing a limitation on taxable value of certain property to provide for the creation of jobs and the generation of state and local tax revenue; authorizing fees; authorizing penalties.
"Zero-Based Budget Act;" requires State Treasurer to develop and integrate certain zero-based budgeting practices and procedures in preparation and submission of Governor's annual budget message.
"Zero-Based Budget Act;" requires State Treasurer to develop and integrate certain zero-based budgeting practices and procedures in preparation and submission of Governor's annual budget message.
"Zero-Based Budget Act;" requires State Treasurer to develop and integrate certain zero-based budgeting practices and procedures in preparation and submission of Governor's annual budget message.
"Zero-Based Budget Act;" requires State Treasurer to develop and integrate certain zero-based budgeting practices and procedures in preparation and submission of Governor's annual budget message.