Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas House Bill HJR9

Filed

Out of House Committee

5/11/09

Voted on by House

Out of Senate Committee

Voted on by Senate

Sent toSOS

Proposed Const. Amend.

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment prescribing the purposes for which revenue from motor vehicle registration fees and taxes on motor fuels and lubricants and certain revenues received from the federal government may be used and authorizing the legislature to provide for automatic adjustments of the rates of motor fuel taxes.

Impact

The passage of HJR9 would potentially redefine state funding priorities regarding transportation. If approved, it would increase funding capabilities for rail transportation infrastructure, which could promote environmental benefits by encouraging public transit use over individual car usage. Additionally, this legislative change may support economic growth through improved connectivity and access to transportation networks, fostering both local and regional commerce.

Summary

HJR9 proposes a constitutional amendment that would allow the allocation of revenue collected from motor vehicle fuel taxes and registration fees for purposes extending beyond traditional road maintenance. Specifically, the bill seeks to permit the use of these funds for the construction, maintenance, and operation of passenger rail, transit, and freight rail systems. By broadening the scope of allowable expenditures, the resolution aims to enhance public transportation infrastructure within the state of Texas.

Contention

Opposition to HJR9 may arise from concerns about diverting funds away from traditional roadway maintenance, which has historically been the primary use of motor vehicle fuel taxes and registration fees. Stakeholders focused on road infrastructure may argue that investing in rail systems could undermine the quality and availability of highway services. Proponents of the bill, however, contend that an integrated transportation approach is essential for meeting modern mobility needs and mitigating traffic congestion.

Companion Bills

TX HJR122

Same As Proposing a constitutional amendment allowing the expenditure of motor vehicle fuel taxes and registration fees for passenger rail, transit, and freight rail.

TX SJR24

Identical Proposing a constitutional amendment allowing the expenditure of motor vehicle fuel taxes and registration fees for passenger rail, transit, and freight rail.

TX SJR52

Same As Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature by general law to permit counties to assess and collect a local motor fuels tax and an additional vehicle registration fee to be used for mobility improvement projects.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3599

Relating to an exemption from certain motor fuel taxes for, and registration fees for motor vehicles owned by, certain nonprofit food banks.

TX HJR204

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the use of money in the state highway fund for transit-oriented projects.

TX HJR144

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the use of money in the state highway fund for roadways for seaports, airports, spaceports, land ports of entry, and international bridges.

TX HB2226

Relating to state and municipal motor fuel taxes; providing civil penalties; creating criminal offenses; requiring occupational licenses; authorizing the imposition of taxes; providing for increases and decreases in the rates of taxes.

TX HB2763

Relating to an exemption from motor fuel taxes for certain fuel used by a rural transit district to provide public transportation.

TX HJR185

Proposing a constitutional amendment relating to the appropriation of the net revenue received from the imposition of state sales and use taxes on sporting goods.

TX HB2028

Relating to imposing a motor fuel tax recovery fee for the registration of an electric vehicle.

TX HJR33

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for an annual state budget and annual legislative sessions for budget purposes.

TX HB3651

Relating to motor fuel taxes.

TX HJR84

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas to conduct gaming by executing a gaming compact with this state; providing for occupational licensing under the compact; limiting certain taxes and fees.