Expressing the intent of the Texas Legislature that the state accept federal economic stimulus funds appropriated under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 or any similar legislation.
Impact
The resolution underscores the critical need for Texas to take advantage of federal funding that could provide at least $27 billion to support various sectors of the state. These funds would potentially assist in preserving jobs, providing investment in infrastructure, supporting education, and mitigating reductions in services, particularly in Medicaid and unemployment insurance. If adopted, the resolution would facilitate a proactive approach to leveraging federal resources to bolster the state's economy and provide relief to its citizens during a period of financial instability.
Summary
SCR15 is a concurrent resolution expressing the intent of the Texas Legislature that the state accept federal economic stimulus funds appropriated under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 or similar legislation. The resolution highlights the ongoing economic challenges facing Texas, including a projected budget shortfall of $9.1 billion and significant job losses. The Comptroller of Texas has indicated that these economic difficulties necessitate immediate action to mitigate the impact on essential state services, employment, and economic growth.
Contention
While SCR15 reflects a united front in seeking assistance from the federal government during a time of economic crisis, there could be underlying contention regarding the reliance on federal funds. Some may argue that accepting such funds could lead to increased federal control over state affairs or that it does not address underlying systemic issues in state governance or economic policy. The resolution does not delve into the debates over how to best use these funds or the potential long-term implications of such federal assistance, but the current economic climate necessitates immediate action, clearly articulated by the authors of the resolution.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Mircale Act (TMA), allowing for certain fees, authorizing certain ad valorem tax incentives for economic development, specifically certain tax relief from school district taxes for certain corporations and limited liability companies that make large investments that create jobs in this state, to authorizing the imposition of certain fees, and the repeal of Chapter 313 of Texas Tax Code and the Economic Development Act of the 77th Legislature.
Expressing support for the Texas attorney general to bring an action against a federal agency to assert any claim the attorney general determines is justiciable to prevent the agency from violating federal law.
Relating to small business recovery funds and insurance tax credits for certain investments in those funds; imposing a monetary penalty; authorizing fees.
Urging Congress to amend federal law to allow states to provide for the consolidation of federally funded workforce development services with federally funded social safety net services.
Relating to agreements authorizing a limitation on taxable value of certain property to provide for the creation of jobs and the generation of state and local tax revenue; authorizing fees; authorizing penalties.