Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1632

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

Caption

Relating to the financing of transportation projects; authorizing fees.

Impact

The bill amends several sections of the Transportation Code, providing clarity on the definitions of financial assistance and the management of funds within the state infrastructure bank. It allows public entities to obtain financial aid through loans and grants while stipulating the requirements for securing these funds, such as the need for pledging revenues or income to ensure repayment. The overarching aim here is to promote public-private partnerships in funding transportation projects and to maximize local participation, ultimately improving the state's infrastructure.

Summary

SB1632 is a piece of legislation aimed at enhancing the financing of transportation projects within Texas. The bill proposes the establishment of a state infrastructure bank, which would serve as a source of financial assistance for various transportation-related projects, including roadway constructions, freight rail projects, and infrastructure improvements related to port authorities. A key feature of the bill is the authorization to charge fees associated with its services, thereby creating a potential revenue stream for the bank's operations.

Contention

Notably, SB1632 includes provisions for the sale of loans issued by the bank, which raises questions about the oversight and the potential for private sector involvement in government-funded projects. Critics may argue that allowing loans to be sold can lead to a lack of accountability regarding the use of public funds. Additionally, there is concern over the implications of charging fees for financial assistance, which could disproportionately impact smaller municipalities with limited budgets.

Overall_significance

This legislation stands to significantly alter how transportation projects are financed in Texas by centralizing financial assistance through the state infrastructure bank. It seeks to streamline processes, potentially reduce state expenses, and facilitate infrastructure improvements across the state, which is crucial for a growing population. As discussions around the bill continue, balancing public accountability with the innovative financing methods it introduces will be vital for its success.

Companion Bills

TX HB3665

Identical Relating to the financing of transportation projects; authorizing fees.

Previously Filed As

TX HB2832

Relating to the funding of multimodal transportation projects; authorizing the issuance of revenue bonds.

TX SB2070

Relating to the funding of projects by the Public Utility Commission of Texas to promote the reliability and resiliency of the power grid in this state; authorizing the issuance of revenue bonds.

TX SB28

Relating to financial assistance provided and programs administered by the Texas Water Development Board.

TX HB10

Relating to financial assistance provided and programs administered by the Texas Water Development Board.

TX HB2191

Relating to mobile source emissions reductions and transportation electrification.

TX SB2508

Relating to mobile source emissions reductions and transportation electrification.

TX SB2369

Relating to the reliability and resiliency of the power grid in this state; authorizing the issuance of revenue bonds.

TX HB1718

Relating to rural development funds and insurance tax credits for certain investments in those funds; authorizing fees.

TX SB895

Relating to the regulation of money services businesses; creating a criminal offense; creating administrative penalties; authorizing the imposition of a fee.

TX HB5

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.

Similar Bills

TX HB3665

Relating to the financing of transportation projects; authorizing fees.

TX HB3218

Relating to the administration, financing, and use of the State Infrastructure Bank.

TX SB1395

Relating to the administration, financing, and use of the State Infrastructure Bank.

TX SB19

Relating to the development, financing, construction, and operation of certain toll projects.

TX HB3671

Relating to the development, financing, construction, and operation of toll projects.

TX HB1734

Relating to the cessation of tolls by toll project entities in certain circumstances.

TX HB3343

Relating to the cessation of tolls by toll project entities in certain circumstances.

TX HB436

Relating to the cessation of tolls by toll project entities in certain circumstances.