TX
Texas Senate Bill SB1200

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1200

Filed
 
Out of Senate Committee
4/20/09  
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to disclosure of contracts between a member of the legislature, or a business entity in which the member has a substantial interest, and a state agency.

Impact

If enacted, SB1200 will amend the Government Code to include new reporting requirements for legislators. Such a change is designed to increase scrutiny over financial dealings between lawmakers and the state, thereby promoting ethical standards and reducing the likelihood of impropriety or corruption. The bill is expected to apply to financial statements required to be filed after September 1, 2009, enhancing oversight for future legislative terms.

Summary

Senate Bill 1200 aims to enhance transparency and accountability in state government by requiring members of the legislature to disclose any contracts entered into with state agencies during the period covered by their financial statements. This legislation specifically targets situations where a legislator or a business entity in which the legislator has a substantial interest has a financial relationship with a state agency. By mandating this disclosure, the bill seeks to inform the public and ensure that potential conflicts of interest are noted and addressed.

Contention

While supporters of SB1200 argue that it is a necessary reform to prevent corruption and promote transparency, there may be concerns regarding the practicality and scope of the disclosures required. Legislators might express apprehension about inadvertently disclosing sensitive information, or there could be debates about what constitutes a 'substantial interest' as defined by the bill. Additionally, some may argue that similar state disclosures already exist and question whether SB1200 adds substantial benefits to existing practices.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1817

Relating to the validity of a contract for which a disclosure of interested parties is required.

TX SB2459

Relating to the disclosure of certain gifts, grants, contracts, and financial interests received from a foreign source by certain state agencies, public institutions of higher education, and state contractors, and to the approval and monitoring of employment-related foreign travel and activities by certain public institution of higher education employees; providing civil and administrative penalties.

TX SB422

Relating to the authority of certain military service members to engage in a business or occupation in this state.

TX HB2760

Relating to the disclosure of certain gifts, grants, contracts, and financial interests received from a foreign source by certain state agencies, public institutions of higher education, and state contractors, and to the approval and monitoring of employment-related foreign travel and activities by certain public institution of higher education employees; providing civil and administrative penalties.

TX HB605

Relating to the disclosure of negotiated rates requested by members of the legislature from certain health care vendors that contract with this state.

TX SB1514

Relating to business entities and nonprofit entities.

TX HB4936

Relating to the awarding of state agency contracts to new businesses.

TX SB2076

Relating to access by members of the legislature to training materials used by state agencies.

TX SB1376

Relating to an employment preference for members of the military and their spouses for positions at state agencies.

TX SB877

Relating to the consideration of ownership interests of certain persons in determining whether a business is a historically underutilized business for purposes of state contracting.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.