Texas Senate Bill SB1712

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/6/09
• Voted on by Senate: 4/16/09
• Out of House Committee: 5/15/09
• Voted on by House: 5/26/09
• Governor Action: 6/19/09
• Enrolled: 5/27/09
• Passed: 6/19/09

Caption

Relating to the authority of the Matagorda County Hospital District of Matagorda County, Texas, to lease property.

Impact

The passage of SB1712 is expected to significantly impact the operational capabilities of the Matagorda County Hospital District by providing it with greater flexibility in property leasing arrangements. The bill is designed to create opportunities for the district to collaborate with private entities, which could lead to improved healthcare services and infrastructure in the area. By allowing longer lease terms, the hospital district may attract more investment and strategic partnerships, ultimately benefiting the local community's health and wellbeing.

Summary

SB1712 aims to enhance the authority of the Matagorda County Hospital District in Texas by allowing the district to lease property, including facilities and equipment, to various entities, including individuals and corporations. The bill specifically amends Section 1057.106 of the Special District Local Laws Code to ensure that leases can be established for terms up to a maximum of 99 years. This extended authority is seen as vital for the hospital district to manage its properties effectively and engage with private sectors to better serve the patients and residents of Matagorda County.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for empowering local healthcare governance, some contention may arise around issues of local control and the potential implications of private leases in public health management. Critics may raise concerns regarding accountability and the transparency of leasing processes, questioning whether such arrangements could prioritize profit motives over public health interests. Opponents may also worry that leasing valuable district property to private entities might limit access for the communities that the hospital district serves.