Proposing a constitutional amendment regarding the limitation on the rate of growth of appropriations.
Impact
If adopted, this amendment would fundamentally alter the framework under which state appropriations are determined, potentially enhancing fiscal responsibility by tying budget growth more directly to demographic and economic conditions. This could lead to stabilized funding for state programs and services, reducing the likelihood of budget deficits and ensuring appropriations remain reflective of actual state needs and capacities.
Summary
HJR65 proposes a constitutional amendment that seeks to limit the rate of growth of state appropriations from tax revenues that are not dedicated by the Texas Constitution. Under the amendment, the growth rate of such appropriations in any biennium cannot exceed the combined rates of state population growth and monetary inflation or deflation during the preceding state fiscal biennium. This mechanism is designed to create a more controlled budgeting process within the state, ensuring that expenditures align more closely with population and economic changes.
Sentiment
Discussions around HJR65 reveal a mixture of support and apprehension. Proponents argue that the amendment is a safeguard against excessive government spending, promoting prudent financial planning and accountability. They see it as a necessary step toward long-term fiscal health for the state. Conversely, critics express concerns that imposing such limitations on appropriations could hinder the state's ability to respond swiftly to emergencies or unforeseen economic downturns, as it may restrict financial flexibility when most needed.
Contention
Key points of contention focus on the balance between fiscal restraint and sufficient funding for state services. Critics particularly worry that in times of economic crisis, the restrictions on appropriations could prevent the government from adequately addressing urgent needs. Additionally, some fear that the linkage of appropriations to population statistics and inflation may not accurately capture local or sector-specific financial requirements, leading to funding shortfalls in critical areas.
Proposing a constitutional amendment excepting certain appropriations to pay for school district ad valorem tax relief from the constitutional limitation on the rate of growth of appropriations.
Proposing a constitutional amendment excepting certain appropriations to pay for school district ad valorem tax relief from the constitutional limitation on the rate of growth of appropriations.
Proposing a constitutional amendment excepting certain appropriations to pay for school district ad valorem tax relief from the constitutional limitation on the rate of growth of appropriations.
Proposing a constitutional amendment excepting certain appropriations to pay for tax relief from the constitutional limitation on the rate of growth of appropriations.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to authorize the legislature to limit the maximum appraised value of real property for ad valorem tax purposes and to except certain appropriations to pay for ad valorem tax relief from the constitutional limitation on the rate of growth of appropriations.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to increase the amount of the exemption from ad valorem taxation by a school district applicable to residence homesteads, to adjust the amount of the limitation on school district ad valorem taxes imposed on the residence homesteads of the elderly or disabled to reflect increases in certain exemption amounts, and to except certain appropriations to pay for school district ad valorem tax relief from the constitutional limitation on the rate of growth of appropriations.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to increase the amount of the exemption from ad valorem taxation by a school district applicable to residence homesteads, to adjust the amount of the limitation on school district ad valorem taxes imposed on the residence homesteads of the elderly or disabled to reflect increases in certain exemption amounts, and to except certain appropriations to pay for school district ad valorem tax relief from the constitutional limitation on the rate of growth of appropriations.
Relating to an annual state budget and legislative budget sessions in even-numbered years and to political contributions made during a legislative session.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to increase the amount of the exemption from ad valorem taxation by a school district applicable to residence homesteads, to adjust the amount of the limitation on school district ad valorem taxes imposed on the residence homesteads of the elderly or disabled to reflect increases in certain exemption amounts, to provide supplemental payments to full-time classroom teachers in school districts, and to except certain appropriations to pay for school district ad valorem tax relief from the constitutional limitation on the rate of growth of appropriations.