Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas House Bill HB2489

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

Caption

Relating to the allocation of revenue from the motor vehicle sales tax to the state highway fund.

Impact

If enacted, HB2489 would significantly impact Texas laws regarding tax revenue allocation. By shifting the majority of motor vehicle sales tax revenue to the highway fund, the bill could enhance funding for road construction and repair projects across the state. This change is aligned with ongoing discussions within the Texas legislature around the need for more robust funding mechanisms to address the state's growing infrastructure challenges. Moreover, it could set a precedent for future legislation aimed at redistributing tax revenues to improve public services.

Summary

House Bill 2489 addresses the allocation of revenue generated from motor vehicle sales tax to the state highway fund in Texas. The bill proposes a phased increase in the percentage of revenue directed to the highway fund, with a goal of eventually directing 100% of these funds to support state highway improvements and maintenance. This legislative initiative is intended to bolster resources available for highway infrastructure, which is critical for the safety and efficiency of Texas's transportation system. The bill outlines specific year-by-year allocation percentages that adjust from 50% in the fiscal year ending August 31, 2010, up to 100% by the fiscal year ending August 31, 2013.

Contention

While the bill is aimed at improving state infrastructure, it may face challenges from lawmakers and stakeholders who are concerned about the implications of reducing funds available to other essential services, such as education and general state revenues. Critics might argue that reallocating such a significant portion of the motor vehicle sales tax could lead to budgets shortfalls in other areas that rely on this revenue. Furthermore, the gradual increase in allocation percentages may raise questions about the adequacy of funding during the interim phases, especially as state needs evolve.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SCR2

Extending the duty of the comptroller of public accounts under Section 7-c, Article VIII, Texas Constitution, to deposit certain tax revenue to the state highway fund.

TX HCR47

Extending the duty of the comptroller of public accounts under Section 7-c, Article VIII, Texas Constitution, to deposit certain tax revenue to the state highway fund.

TX SB377

Relating to the Texas Connectivity Fund and to the allocation and the use of certain proceeds from the imposition of state sales and use taxes on telecommunications services.

TX HB2214

Relating to the allocation of Texas Emissions Reduction Plan funds.

TX HB2207

Relating to the allocation of certain constitutional transfers of money to the economic stabilization fund, the state highway fund, the oil and gas regulation and cleanup account, the Texas emissions reduction plan fund, the property tax relief fund, and the Texas severance tax revenue and oil and natural gas (Texas STRONG) defense fund and to the permissible uses of money deposited to the Texas severance tax revenue and oil and natural gas (Texas STRONG) defense fund.

TX HB2230

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 HJR27

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.

TX HB3461

Relating to the creation and re-creation of funds and accounts, the dedication and rededication of revenue and allocation of accrued interest on dedicated revenue, and the exemption of unappropriated money from use for general governmental purposes.

TX HB5285

Relating to the banning of school district ad valorem taxes for certain residential properties and an increase in the rates of certain state taxes to cover the increased cost to the state of providing public education; increasing the rates of taxes.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.