Texas House Bill HB2729

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/15/09
• Voted on by House: 4/28/09
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/15/09
• Voted on by Senate: 5/21/09
• Governor Action: 6/19/09
• Report Pass: 5/15/09
• Enrolled: 5/24/09
• Passed: 6/19/09

Caption

Relating to directing payment, after approval, of certain miscellaneous claims and judgments against the state out of funds designated by this Act; making appropriations.

Impact

The enactment of HB2729 is expected to impact state finance laws significantly by defining how claims are presented and paid. By detailing the appropriations from the General Revenue and other funds to cover specific claims, the bill aims to streamline the process of rectifying past financial discrepancies, thus promoting fiscal responsibility within state operations. Additionally, it highlights the necessity of maintaining thorough records and justifications for state expenditures, which aligns with broader efforts to enhance accountability in public finances.

Summary

House Bill 2729, entitled as relating to directing payment of certain miscellaneous claims and judgments against the state, introduces a framework for the payment of various claims from the state's General Revenue Fund and other designated funds. The bill outlines specific claims, including small sums for past errors and void warrants, and establishes procedures for the verification and approval of these claims by the attorney general and the comptroller of public accounts. This bill is crucial in ensuring that all claims against the state are processed fairly and transparently, providing a structured approach to handle financial liabilities.

Contention

While the bill generally aims to facilitate the payment of legitimate claims, it may face scrutiny regarding the appropriateness of various claims and the sums involved. Some stakeholders may question the necessity of certain appropriations, particularly when they pertain to small, historical claims that may seem negligible compared to the overall state budget. There may also be discussions about the effectiveness of the oversight mechanisms established in the bill, ensuring that claims are verified and substantiated properly, thus preventing potential misuse of state funds.