Proposing a constitutional amendment prohibiting the issuance of certain debt and the use of certain revenue for toll roads.
Impact
If passed, SJR35 would have a significant impact on Texas law by formally prohibiting the allocation of state funds and debt issuance for toll road projects. By altering Article III and Article VIII of the Texas Constitution, the amendment seeks to redirect highway funding strictly to non-toll road projects, ensuring that public revenues are exclusively allocated to the maintenance and construction of regular roadways. This may lead to a reassessment of existing contracts or negotiations regarding toll road development and financing.
Summary
SJR35 proposes a constitutional amendment that prohibits the issuance of certain debt and the utilization of specific revenues for toll road financing in Texas. This amendment aims to restrict the Texas Transportation Commission's ability to borrow or issue notes for any functions related to toll roads. The proposal includes amendments to various sections of the Texas Constitution, particularly focusing on establishing clear limitations on funding mechanisms for state highway improvement projects, excluding toll roads.
Contention
The discussion surrounding SJR35 could elicit a variety of opinions among stakeholders. Proponents argue that limiting funding for toll roads promotes greater access and equity in transportation infrastructure. They may contend that toll roads create financial barriers for residents. Opponents, however, might raise concerns about potential impacts on future transportation projects. They could argue that removing the option for toll funding may restrict the state's ability to maintain or modernize its roads adequately, particularly in densely populated or high-growth areas. The debate may also include viewpoints on fiscal responsibility and the prioritization of infrastructure funding.
Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the creation of and use of money in the Grow Texas fund and allocating certain general revenues to that fund, the economic stabilization fund, and the state highway fund.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to permit additional uses of certain dedicated general revenue transferred each fiscal year to the state highway fund.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to permit additional uses of certain dedicated general revenue transferred each fiscal year to the state highway fund.
Proposing a constitutional amendment creating the state school safety fund to provide ongoing financial support for projects that ensure the safety of public schools in this state and providing for the transfer of certain general revenues to that fund, the economic stabilization fund, and the state highway fund.
Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the use of money in the state highway fund for roadways for seaports, airports, spaceports, land ports of entry, and international bridges.
Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the dedication of certain sales and use tax revenue to a special fund established in the state treasury to pay for water infrastructure in this state.
Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the creation of the Texas legacy fund and the Texas legacy distribution fund, dedicating the Texas legacy distribution fund to certain state infrastructure projects or the reduction of certain long-term obligations, and providing for the transfer of certain general revenues to the economic stabilization fund, the Texas legacy fund, and the state highway fund.
Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the creation of the Texas land and water conservation fund to assist in preserving critical natural resources in this state.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.