Proposing a constitutional amendment dedicating certain revenue derived from the tax imposed on the sale, use, or rental of motor vehicles to the state highway fund.
Impact
Should HJR77 be enacted, it would lead to significant changes in the handling of motor vehicle tax revenues at the state level. By dedicating a fixed percentage to the state highway fund, lawmakers aim to stabilize funding streams for transportation projects, which have historically faced funding shortages and controversies. The amendment would provide a clear regulatory framework, potentially enhancing the state's ability to plan and execute long-term transportation strategies that align with population growth and economic needs.
Summary
HJR77 proposes a constitutional amendment in Texas that aims to allocate a portion of the revenue generated from the tax imposed on the sale, use, or rental of motor vehicles directly to the state highway fund. Specifically, the bill stipulates that 25 percent of the net revenue will be directed to this fund, with the remainder to be allocated as determined by the legislature through general law. This measure is intended to ensure a dedicated stream of funding for state highway projects, addressing the growing concerns regarding transportation infrastructure and maintenance in Texas.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding HJR77 appears to be favorable among proponents who see it as a proactive solution to transportation funding challenges. Supporters of the bill argue that dedicating tax revenue is a smart way to ensure sufficient resources for necessary highway maintenance and improvements. However, there could be dissent regarding the efficacy of dedicating funds in this manner, with some critics highlighting the need for a comprehensive approach to transportation funding rather than a piecemeal allocation of tax revenue.
Contention
One notable point of contention might arise from the balance of power between the legislature's authority to determine fiscal allocations and the implication of a constitutional mandate on funding sources. Critics could argue that once this amendment is in place, it could limit the flexibility of the legislature in addressing shifting transportation needs and budget scenarios. Additionally, the inclusion of a temporary provision that applies to taxes imposed on or after January 1, 2012, may also spark debate regarding its relevance and applications over time.
Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the dedication of certain sales and use tax revenue to a special fund established in the state treasury to pay for water infrastructure in this state.
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 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 providing for the creation of the Texas legacy fund and the Texas legacy distribution fund, dedicating the Texas legacy distribution fund to certain state infrastructure projects or the reduction of certain long-term obligations, and providing for the transfer of certain general revenues to the economic stabilization fund, the Texas legacy fund, and the state highway fund.
Proposing a constitutional amendment creating the Texas Connectivity Fund for the development of broadband and other telecommunications services in all areas of the state and authorizing the appropriation to that fund of a portion of revenue received from the existing state sales and use taxes on telecommunications services while not increasing the rate of the sales and use taxes.
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.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to prohibit the imposition of school district maintenance and operations ad valorem taxes on residence homesteads, to increase the rates of state sales and use taxes and dedicate the revenue attributable to that increase for public education, and to establish and prescribe the permissible uses of the homeowner protection fund.