Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas House Bill HB2230

Filed
2/13/23  
Out of House Committee
4/25/23  
Voted on by House
5/3/23  
Out of Senate Committee
5/10/23  
Voted on by Senate
5/15/23  
Governor Action
6/9/23  

Caption

Relating to the determination of the sufficient balance of the economic stabilization fund for the purpose of allocating general revenue to that fund and the state highway fund.

Impact

The proposed changes recognized in HB 2230 are significant for the state’s transportation infrastructure. By extending the funding deadline, the bill aims to maintain a consistent financial influx into the highway fund, thereby facilitating ongoing and future road development projects. This would address the increasing demands for transportation from both the growing population and the expanding energy sector. Supporters of the bill argue that this is a critical step in proactively planning for Texas's infrastructure requirements, ensuring that adequate resources are allocated where they are most needed.

Summary

House Bill 2230 is designed to amend the existing provisions regarding the Economic Stabilization Fund in Texas. The primary objective of the bill is to extend the expiration date for the transfer of certain oil and gas severance fees to the state highway fund from December 31, 2034, to December 31, 2042. This adjustment is aimed at ensuring that a stable funding source remains available for Texas's growing transportation needs, particularly in light of the pressures associated with urban development and energy extraction.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding HB 2230 appears to be predominantly positive, especially among transportation advocates and lawmakers who emphasize the necessity of efficient funding for maintaining and upgrading Texas's highway infrastructure. Various stakeholders, including the Transportation Advocates of Texas, have expressed strong support for the bill as it serves to sustain vital transportation services. However, there may also be underlying tensions related to fiscal management and the long-term implications of relying on specific revenue sources.

Contention

Notable points of contention involve the original sunset date connected to Proposition One, which was initially set to guide the allocation of oil and gas severance fees. The elimination of this sunset date raised discussions about long-term strategic planning for state finances and the potential over-reliance on specific revenue streams. Critics may voice concerns over whether such funding mechanisms adequately reflect the needs of all Texans and whether they may inadvertently starve other areas of funding, particularly in terms of sustainability and environmental considerations.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

  • Chapter 316. Appropriations
    • Section: 092
    • Section: 093
    • Section: 092
    • Section: 093
    • Section: 092
    • Section: 093
    • Section: 092
    • Section: 093
    • Section: 092
    • Section: 093

Companion Bills

TX SB225

Identical Relating to the determination of the sufficient balance of the economic stabilization fund for the purpose of allocating certain constitutional transfers of money to that fund and the state highway fund.

TX SB1232

Similar To Relating to the determination of the sufficient balance of the economic stabilization fund for the purpose of allocating general revenue to that fund and the state highway fund.

Previously Filed As

TX SB962

Relating to the determination of the sufficient balance of the economic stabilization fund for the purpose of allocating general revenue to that fund and the state highway fund.

TX SB1232

Relating to the determination of the sufficient balance of the economic stabilization fund for the purpose of allocating general revenue to that fund and the state highway fund.

TX SB225

Relating to the determination of the sufficient balance of the economic stabilization fund for the purpose of allocating certain constitutional transfers of money to that fund and the state highway fund.

TX SB2418

Relating to the determination of the sufficient balance within the economic stabilization fund and to the adjustment of allocations of amounts to be transferred to the economic stabilization fund and the state highway fund under Section 49-g, Article III, Texas Constitution.

TX SB2290

Relating to the allocation of certain general revenues to the economic stabilization fund, the state highway fund, and the education enrichment fund.

TX HB855

Relating to the management and investment of the economic stabilization fund, including the determination of a sufficient balance within the economic stabilization fund.

TX HB209

Relating to the determination of the sufficient balance and management and investment of the economic stabilization fund.

TX HB4239

Relating to the allocation and dedication of certain revenue to the foundation school fund, the economic stabilization fund, and the state highway fund.

TX HB903

Relating to the investment of a percentage of the economic stabilization fund balance in excess of the sufficient balance.

TX SB69

Relating to the allocations of money for transfer to the state highway fund and the economic stabilization fund and the investment of money in the economic stabilization fund.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.