Texas House Bill HB1300

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 2/14/11
• Out of House Committee: 3/21/11
• Voted on by House: 4/6/11
• Refer: 3/1/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/3/11
• Report Pass: 3/16/11
• Voted on by Senate: 5/12/11
• Engrossed: 4/6/11
• Governor Action: 5/28/11
• Refer: 4/26/11
• Report Pass: 5/3/11
• Enrolled: 5/12/11
• Passed: 5/28/11

Caption

Relating to funding for state sites and programs of the Parks and Wildlife Department through private contributions and partnerships and to commercial advertising on certain state sites.

Impact

The introduction of HB1300 reflects a significant shift towards privatization in state funding for public resources, with an emphasis on allowing for-profit entities to partner with the Parks and Wildlife Department. Such arrangements may streamline revenue generation and provide additional resources for park maintenance, which can be crucial given budgetary constraints. However, the bill also requires the commission to adopt rules that prohibit inappropriate commercial advertising, aiming to protect the integrity of state sites. This regulation is meant to ensure that advertising does not detract from the visitor experience nor compromise the natural setting of the parks.

Summary

House Bill 1300 aims to enhance funding for the Parks and Wildlife Department by enabling the agency to pursue private partnerships and to accept commercial advertising at various state sites. This legislation introduces new provisions to the Parks and Wildlife Code that define the role of official corporate partners, who would assist the department in raising funds for the operations and maintenance of state parks, natural areas, and wildlife management areas. The bill establishes a framework for these partnerships, including the types of contributions that can be accepted and how these funds can be utilized. Notably, the funds are earmarked solely for state site operations and maintenance or priority projects, ensuring that the financial contributions directly benefit these areas.

Contention

While the bill stands to provide more financial support for the Parks and Wildlife Department, it has sparked discussions regarding the implications of commercializing state parks. Critics argue that involving private corporations could lead to the prioritization of commercial interests over ecological preservation and public enjoyment. There are concerns that revenue generation could overshadow the original mission of state parks and wildlife management, which is to conserve nature and provide a communal recreational space. Therefore, while the bill proposes potentially beneficial funding mechanisms, it raises questions about the balance between financial viability and environmental stewardship.