Proposing a constitutional amendment concerning the limitation on the rate of growth in appropriations.
Impact
If enacted, the SJR2 amendment would significantly impact state budgeting procedures and financial planning. It establishes a new framework that dictates how state revenues can be allocated, potentially resulting in more predictable budgeting and appropriations. The intention is to prevent excessive spending during periods of economic growth, thereby fostering long-term economic stability. However, this may also limit the state's ability to respond to emerging needs or economic downturns, as the appropriations cannot exceed the established growth rate.
Summary
SJR2 proposes a constitutional amendment that seeks to limit the rate of growth in state appropriations based on the average biennial rate of growth of Texas's population, adjusted for inflation. This mechanism is designed to ensure that state spending does not outpace population growth and economic inflation over time. By capping the growth of consolidated general revenue appropriations, the bill aims to promote fiscal responsibility within state government.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SJR2 is mixed. Advocates for the bill argue that it is a necessary step towards maintaining fiscal discipline while also protecting taxpayers from potential overreach in state spending. They view it as a safeguard that encourages lawmakers to prioritize efficiency and effectiveness in financial management. Conversely, opponents express concerns that capping appropriations could hinder the government's ability to adequately fund essential services, especially in times of crisis or unforeseen circumstances, which could lead to negative outcomes for public welfare.
Contention
Discussions surrounding SJR2 highlighted distinct points of contention regarding fiscal management and government accountability. Proponents believe the cap is essential for sustainable growth, while critics argue it may restrict necessary investments in education, healthcare, and infrastructure. The debate reflects broader ideological divides over the role of government in regulating fiscal policy, financial accountability, and the essential nature of public services, raising questions about the balance between fiscal constraints and the duty of the state to meet the diverse needs of its citizens.
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 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.
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.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to authorize the legislature to limit the maximum appraised value of real property for ad valorem tax purposes, to increase the amount of an 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 ad valorem 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.
To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.