Texas Senate Bill SB2223

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/27/09
• Voted on by Senate: 5/12/09

Caption

Relating to authorizing the creation of regional military sustainability commissions around military installations.

Impact

The legislation would amend Chapter 375 of the Local Government Code by adding a new subchapter dedicated to defining the structure, governance, and powers of these newly formed authorities. By allowing local governments to create specialized regulatory bodies, SB2223 offers a framework to adapt to the unique circumstances surrounding military installations, which could streamline operations and compliance for businesses in these areas. Moreover, it provides a clear approach for municipalities on how to manage short-term and long-term developments around defense bases ensuring constant alignment with state and national security agendas.

Summary

SB2223 establishes provisions for the creation of a Defense Base Regulatory Authority by municipalities in Texas that have a population of 1.1 million or more. This new authority aims to regulate economic activities around active military installations to ensure public health, safety, and welfare while protecting areas of military and national security importance. It empowers the governing bodies of applicable municipalities to oversee operations related to military bases effectively, fostering a safer local environment and possibly attracting further economic development linked to defense sectors.

Contention

While the bill prioritizes military and national security interests, it also raises questions about the balance of local authority versus state oversight. Critics may argue that the expansion of regulatory powers could encroach on the existing autonomy of municipalities, specifically in terms of territorial governance and land use planning. Additionally, the requirements for public hearings could be seen as an unnecessary delay in the decision-making process, impacting timely local development initiatives while ensuring that community voices are heard in regards to military transitions or expansions.