Proposing a constitutional amendment to require the comptroller of public accounts to make a state revenue report after the first year of a state fiscal biennium and the governor to call a special session of the legislature if actual state revenue for that fiscal year was at least five percent less than projected revenue.
Impact
If enacted, this change would directly affect state fiscal management by imposing a requirement for greater transparency regarding the state's financial health. It aims to enhance accountability among state officials related to budget projections and actual revenue flows. The obligation for the Governor to call a special session under such circumstances would provide legislators an opportunity to deliberate on potential adjustments in appropriations or taxation, aiming at better fiscal alignment and proactive management of state finances.
Summary
HJR149 proposes a constitutional amendment that would mandate the Comptroller of Public Accounts to prepare an annual state revenue report after the first year of each fiscal biennium. If actual revenue falls short—specifically, if it is at least five percent less than projected—the Governor would be required to convene a special legislative session. The goal of this amendment is to ensure more rigorous oversight and responsiveness concerning the state's financial condition, allowing the legislature to adapt promptly to any significant shortfalls in expected revenue.
Sentiment
The sentiment around HJR149 seems generally supportive among those who prioritize fiscal responsibility and robust governance. Proponents view this measure as a necessary step to ensure that state lawmakers are equipped to respond effectively to fiscal challenges, thereby safeguarding state financial integrity. However, there may be opposition from individuals concerned about the implications of frequent special sessions, which could lead to increased political maneuvering or disruptions in legislative processes.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise regarding the implications of invoking special sessions too frequently, as this could lead to an increased burden on legislators and potential instability in long-term fiscal planning. Additionally, questions may be raised about the reliability of revenue projections and whether such mandated responsiveness is truly beneficial, or if it could inadvertently result in reactive rather than strategic policymaking.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to permit additional uses of certain dedicated general revenue transferred each fiscal year to the state highway fund.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to permit additional uses of certain dedicated general revenue transferred each fiscal year to the state highway fund.
Relating to an annual state budget and legislative budget sessions in even-numbered years and to political contributions made during a legislative session.
Proposing a constitutional amendment creating the state school safety fund to provide ongoing financial support for projects that ensure the safety of public schools in this state and providing for the transfer of certain general revenues to that fund, the economic stabilization fund, and the state highway fund.
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.
Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the governor to call the legislature into special session on petition of at least two-thirds of the members of each house of the legislature.
Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the governor to call the legislature into special session following certain disaster or emergency declarations and specifying the powers of the legislature in those special sessions.
Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the state to pay at least 50 percent of the cost of maintaining and operating the public school system and prohibiting the comptroller from certifying legislation containing an appropriation for public education unless the requirement is met.
Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the state to pay at least 50 percent of the cost of maintaining and operating the public school system and prohibiting the comptroller from certifying legislation containing an appropriation for public education unless the requirement is met.
A resolution to direct the Clerk of the House of Representatives to only present to the Governor enrolled House bills finally passed by both houses of the One Hundred Third Legislature.