Texas House Bill HB2693

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 5/8/09

Caption

Relating to the authority of certain counties to assess certain costs for roadway improvements.

Impact

The intent of HB2693 is to enhance the ability of county governments to manage infrastructure development by imposing costs directly on property owners who would benefit from roadway improvements. This bill is expected to facilitate the funding of necessary enhancements to local roads and streets, ensuring they meet safety and public welfare standards while also alleviating the financial burdens on counties. As such, it promotes the development of essential transportation infrastructure, which can be a catalyst for further economic growth and residential development.

Summary

House Bill 2693 pertains to the authority of certain counties in Texas to assess costs associated with roadway improvements in unincorporated areas. The bill amends sections of the Local Government Code and Transportation Code, providing counties with clearer guidelines on how they can impose impact fees on landowners in relation to infrastructure projects. This is particularly relevant for counties with large populations and those that overlap with critical natural resources, such as the Edwards Aquifer.

Contention

Despite its potential benefits, the bill may face opposition from property rights advocates and those concerned about the fairness of imposing additional fees on landowners. Critics may argue that such impact fees could disproportionately affect lower-income residents and developers by increasing the overall cost of land development. The debate around HB2693 could focus on the balance between fostering infrastructure development and safeguarding the interests of existing landowners who may not have the financial capability to absorb extra costs imposed by fees.