Texas Senate Bill SB783

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/23/09
• Voted on by Senate: 4/28/09
• Out of House Committee: 5/14/09

Caption

Relating to the Texas emerging technology fund, including transfers between the fund and the Texas Enterprise Fund.

Impact

The enactment of SB783 is anticipated to have significant implications for state laws regarding funding and support for technological advancements. Specifically, it may lead to increased transparency, as the bill requires annual reporting by the governor on the performance and financial status of the fund. Such reporting will detail the number of awards, funding amounts, and the outcomes of projects supported by the emerging technology fund. Additionally, the amendments intend to bolster the effectiveness of the fund by prioritizing projects that demonstrate both immediate and long-term benefits to Texas's technological landscape.

Summary

SB783 proposes amendments to the Texas emerging technology fund concerning the allocation, monitoring, and reporting of awards made from the fund. The bill specifies that money allocated to the fund will be distributed in a manner that supports collaboration among various entities, research award matching, and the acquisition of research superiority. This shift aims to enhance the state's position in the technology sector by fostering innovations originating from public institutions of higher education and attracting researchers and resources from outside Texas.

Contention

Despite the potential benefits, the bill may face scrutiny from certain sectors concerned about the inclusion of outside entities in the management of the fund. Critics argue that contracting with external organizations could lead to a lack of accountability and transparency in how the funds are utilized. Furthermore, the confidentiality clauses concerning applicants for funding may raise red flags regarding public access to information related to state-backed investments, which some lawmakers and public interest groups might contest.