Proposing a constitutional amendment to limit the purposes for which revenues from motor vehicle registration fees, taxes on motor fuels and lubricants, and certain revenues received from the federal government may be used.
Impact
If passed, SJR22 would amend existing provisions in the Texas Constitution, specifically Article VIII Sections 7-a and 7-b. This would limit legislative discretion in reallocating these funds for purposes other than those directly associated with roadway development and maintenance. Supporters of the bill argue that it will safeguard road funding from being diverted to other state initiatives, thereby ensuring that revenue from these specific taxes is used where it is needed most—on the roads that citizens use daily.
Summary
SJR22 proposes a constitutional amendment that aims to limit the purposes for which certain state revenues can be used. Specifically, it focuses on revenues generated from motor vehicle registration fees, taxes on motor fuels and lubricants, and some federal revenue contributions. The bill seeks to ensure that these funds are earmarked solely for the acquisition, construction, and maintenance of public roadways and related services such as traffic supervision. This restriction is intended to provide a clearer direction for state budget allocations related to transportation infrastructure.
Contention
Some points of contention surrounding SJR22 include potential opposition from various stakeholder groups who may rely on shared state revenues for different public programs. Critics may argue that restricting these funds could undermine local and state initiatives by limiting flexibility in budgetary decision-making. Additionally, there are concerns about the implications of a rigid funding structure on future infrastructure projects, especially in times of budget shortfalls or unanticipated economic challenges.
Identical
Proposing a constitutional amendment to limit the purposes for which revenues from motor vehicle registration fees, taxes on motor fuels and lubricants, and certain revenues received from the federal government may be used.
Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the use of money in the state highway fund for roadways for seaports, airports, spaceports, land ports of entry, and international bridges.
Proposing a constitutional amendment relating to the appropriation of the net revenue received from the imposition of state sales and use taxes on sporting goods.
Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the creation of and use of money in the Grow Texas fund and allocating certain general revenues to that fund, the economic stabilization fund, and the state highway fund.
Relating to the creation and re-creation of funds and accounts, the dedication and rededication of revenue and allocation of accrued interest on dedicated revenue, and the exemption of unappropriated money from use for general governmental purposes.
Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas to conduct gaming by executing a gaming compact with this state; providing for occupational licensing under the compact; limiting certain taxes and fees.
Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas to conduct gaming by executing a gaming compact with this state; providing for occupational licensing under the compact; limiting certain taxes and fees.