Expressing intent that funds provided to the State of Texas by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act be spent, as far as practicable, on domestic goods, materials, and services.
Impact
This resolution has significant implications for how federal stimulus funds are allocated and spent within Texas. By prioritizing domestic over imported goods, the bill seeks to foster local economic growth and stabilize job markets that have been severely affected by the recession. The resolution aligns with broader economic theories advocating that local spending generates a 'multiplier effect', thus amplifying the benefits of the initial federal investment across the economy. This intent highlights a strategic direction for economic recovery in Texas, focusing on supporting local industries and businesses.
Summary
House Resolution 716 expresses the intent of the Texas House of Representatives regarding the use of funds provided to the state through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The resolution emphasizes that these federal funds, aimed at jumpstarting the economy and alleviating high unemployment levels, should be spent primarily on domestic goods, materials, and services wherever practicable. This approach aims to maximize the effectiveness of the stimulus funds by ensuring that they contribute directly to the U.S. economy, thereby creating or preserving jobs in the state.
Contention
While the bill does not seem to have provisions that could cause direct legislative contention, it reflects an ongoing debate surrounding economic recovery strategies. The emphasis on domestic spending can raise questions on how Texas will manage contracts and procurement processes in alignment with this intent. Stakeholders may have differing opinions on the feasibility of enforcing such an intent, especially in balancing cost competitiveness with the goal of supporting local businesses. The spirit of the bill is therefore to boost local economies while ensuring that taxpayer dollars are invested in the most beneficial manner for state residents.
Relating to small business recovery funds and insurance tax credits for certain investments in those funds; imposing a monetary penalty; authorizing fees.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Energy Insurance Program and other funding mechanisms to support the construction and operation of electric generating facilities.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Mircale Act (TMA), allowing for certain fees, authorizing certain ad valorem tax incentives for economic development, specifically certain tax relief from school district taxes for certain corporations and limited liability companies that make large investments that create jobs in this state, to authorizing the imposition of certain fees, and the repeal of Chapter 313 of Texas Tax Code and the Economic Development Act of the 77th Legislature.
Relating to agreements authorizing a limitation on taxable value of certain property to provide for the creation of jobs and the generation of state and local tax revenue; authorizing fees; authorizing penalties.
Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of the health and human services laws governing the Health and Human Services Commission, Medicaid, and other social services.