Texas House Bill HB1727

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/26/11
• Introduced: 2/23/11
• Refer: 3/3/11
• Refer: 3/10/11
• Report Pass: 4/14/11
• Report Pass: 4/21/11

Caption

Relating to the sale and sale and leaseback of certain state property.

Impact

The bill grants authority to the commissioner to identify which state buildings or parcels of land may be sold, emphasizing underused or undeveloped properties. This initiative aims to not only generate revenue through the sale of state property but also to evaluate ongoing state needs for office space and future land use possibilities. By allowing the sale and leaseback to occur, the state can potentially reduce maintenance costs and reinvest the generated revenue into areas that require funding or development, which may include public infrastructure or services.

Summary

House Bill 1727 pertains to the strategic management of state property, specifically focusing on the sale and subsequent leaseback of certain state buildings and land. The bill directs the Texas Facilities Commission to collaborate with the asset management division of the General Land Office to assess the financial implications of selling state assets and leasing back office space for an extended period of up to 99 years. This process is intended to maximize state resources and efficiently manage the physical assets of the state government.

Contention

While the bill appears to have clear financial motivations, it also raises questions regarding the long-term implications of such transactions. Some stakeholders may view this as a risk of losing control over valuable state assets. Concerns may be articulated about the terms of leaseback arrangements, including the security of preserving public interests in leases that could span decades. Additionally, the oversight committee established by the bill, composed of legislative appointees and a public member, may elicit viewpoints on transparency and accountability during these transactions.