Relating to the limitation on the rate of growth of appropriations.
Impact
If enacted, SB928 will amend existing laws, particularly those outlined in the Government Code regarding budget preparation and execution. The changes will primarily affect state fiscal planning by requiring the Legislative Budget Board to adopt specific metrics for determining annual spending limits. This could lead to potential reductions in state-funded programs if economic growth does not keep pace with population increases and inflation, thus introducing a degree of financial discipline in the state budgetary process.
Summary
Senate Bill 928 seeks to impose stricter limitations on the growth of state appropriations from tax revenues that are not constitutionally dedicated. Specifically, the bill stipulates that appropriations cannot exceed either the estimated growth rate of the state's economy or a composite measure that includes both population growth and inflation. This aims to provide a more stable budget process by creating a predictable framework for state spending, thereby helping legislators manage financial resources more effectively.
Contention
Opposition to SB928 may arise from various stakeholders, including public service advocates and local government officials, who could argue that such limits could improperly constrain necessary funding for education, healthcare, and infrastructure, especially during economic downturns. Proponents may counter that the bill will encourage responsible fiscal management, but critics could highlight the risks of underfunding essential services as a consequence of strict limits on appropriations.
Relating to an annual state budget and legislative budget sessions in even-numbered years and to political contributions made during a legislative session.
Proposing a constitutional amendment excepting certain appropriations to pay for school district ad valorem tax relief from the constitutional limitation on the rate of growth of appropriations.
Proposing a constitutional amendment excepting certain appropriations to pay for school district ad valorem tax relief from the constitutional limitation on the rate of growth of appropriations.
Proposing a constitutional amendment excepting certain appropriations to pay for school district ad valorem tax relief from the constitutional limitation on the rate of growth of appropriations.
Proposing a constitutional amendment excepting certain appropriations to pay for tax relief from the constitutional limitation on the rate of growth of appropriations.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to increase the amount of the exemption from ad valorem taxation by a school district applicable to residence homesteads, to adjust the amount of the limitation on school district ad valorem taxes imposed on the residence homesteads of the elderly or disabled to reflect increases in certain exemption amounts, and to except certain appropriations to pay for school district ad valorem tax relief from the constitutional limitation on the rate of growth of appropriations.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to increase the amount of the exemption from ad valorem taxation by a school district applicable to residence homesteads, to adjust the amount of the limitation on school district ad valorem taxes imposed on the residence homesteads of the elderly or disabled to reflect increases in certain exemption amounts, and to except certain appropriations to pay for school district ad valorem tax relief from the constitutional limitation on the rate of growth of appropriations.