Texas House Bill HJR142

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/9/09

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment relating to the disposition of proceeds from the development or sale of the rights to natural resources or minerals in land held by Webb County for the county permanent school fund.

Impact

The amendment would permit Webb County, which is defined by specific demographic parameters, to not only engage in the development or sale of these resources but also to recover associated expenses. The county could retain part of the proceeds to reimburse its reasonable and necessary expenses incurred during such dispositions. Remaining proceeds would then be distributed to the local school districts on a per-student basis, therefore potentially impacting the funding levels for public education within the region.

Summary

HJR142 proposes a constitutional amendment that focuses on the management of proceeds resulting from the development or sale of natural resources or minerals on land held for the county permanent school fund, specifically in Webb County. The bill aims to allow the county to develop or sell rights to these natural resources and establish a framework for how proceeds from such transactions can be handled. This change is intended to enhance the financial flexibility of the county regarding educational funding.

Contention

Debates surrounding HJR142 may arise regarding the implications of allowing a specific county to capitalize on its natural resources while affecting educational funding structures. Supporters might argue that it provides a necessary source of revenue that can significantly benefit local schools, especially given the fiscal pressures many educational institutions face. Conversely, opponents could raise concerns about the sustainability of such funding mechanisms, particularly if outcomes adversely influence local environmental practices or if they create disparities between different counties.