Texas House Bill HJR117

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment relating to the use of money from the economic stabilization fund for response to a natural disaster.

Impact

The proposed amendment could significantly impact the state law landscape regarding emergency management and fiscal governance. By granting the governor expedited access to state funds during disasters, HJR117 seeks to enhance the state’s responsiveness and efficiency in dealing with emergencies. This could lead to improved outcomes for communities affected by natural disasters, while also establishing clearer guidelines about the funding limits and administrative responsibilities in disaster recovery efforts. Moreover, the decision to submit this amendment directly to voters emphasizes the importance of civic engagement in fiscal matters related to disaster preparedness and response.

Summary

HJR117 is a joint resolution that proposes a constitutional amendment to amend Section 49-g of Article III of the Texas Constitution. The proposed amendment allows the governor to access funds from the economic stabilization fund without the need for prior appropriation to respond to natural disasters. It is aimed at streamlining the funding process for disaster-related expenditures, particularly when swift action might be necessary to address urgent needs following a natural disaster. The resolution stipulates a cap on the amount that can be spent under these circumstances, with a maximum of $100 million allotted for temporary and emergency housing and an additional $150 million available for disaster-related purposes as defined by existing statutory provisions.

Contention

Notably, the bill grants substantial authority to the governor, which may raise concerns regarding checks and balances within the state's governance framework. Critics could argue that facilitating direct access to large sums of money without legislative oversight could lead to misuse or misallocation of funds. Such positions may trigger a debate on the balance of power between state officials and the legislature, particularly concerning the appropriate role of elected representatives in determining budgetary priorities in times of crisis. The potential implications of this amendment would likely be scrutinized regarding its long-term effects on the operational dynamics between the executive and legislative branches of the Texas government.