Texas House Bill HB1591

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 2/21/11
• Refer: 3/3/11

Caption

Relating to reporting regarding state fees by the comptroller and in the general appropriations bill.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1591 will amend the Government Code by adding specific reporting requirements related to state fees and their utilization. This includes creating a separate section in the general appropriations bill to detail proposed increases in state fees. Such changes are expected to not only enhance accountability within state financial practices but also inform legislators and the public about the purposes of specific fees. This effort aligns with broader initiatives aimed at budget transparency and responsible fiscal management in state governance.

Summary

House Bill 1591 aims to enhance the transparency and reporting of state fees collected in Texas. It introduces new requirements for the Texas Comptroller to publish a schedule of all revenue generated from fees authorized by statute shortly after each legislative session. This schedule will include vital details about each fee, such as its purpose, any increases proposed during the session, and where the revenue will be allocated. The intent behind this bill is to provide clearer insight into state revenue sources and facilitate more informed budgeting decisions.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB 1591 appears to be supportive, particularly among legislators advocating for enhanced transparency in state financial operations. By requiring detailed reporting on fee collections, proponents believe that it will lead to better fiscal oversight and potentially modify how funds are utilized at the state level. However, there may also be concerns from some members about the administrative burden this may place on the Comptroller’s office and whether such transparency translates into meaningful changes in public perception or state budgeting practices.

Contention

While there seems to be a consensus on the importance of transparency regarding state fees, some contentious points may arise regarding the practical implementation of these new reporting requirements. Concerns could focus on how the Comptroller will manage the additional workload and whether this comprehensive approach will effectively lead to stricter budgetary controls or simply result in more paperwork without substantial outcomes. Additionally, there may be discussions around which fees should be prioritized for reporting and whether certain fees serve appropriate public interests.