Texas Senate Bill SB1047

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 3/1/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 3/28/11
• Voted on by Senate: 4/7/11
• Refer: 3/16/11
• Out of House Committee: 5/5/11
• Report Pass: 3/28/11
• Voted on by House: 5/20/11
• Engrossed: 4/7/11
• Governor Action: 6/17/11
• Refer: 4/29/11
• Report Pass: 5/5/11
• Enrolled: 5/21/11
• Passed: 6/17/11

Caption

Relating to the eligibility of an innovation and commercialization organization associated with the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center to receive funding from the Texas emerging technology fund.

Impact

The bill aims to stimulate economic growth in Texas by facilitating relationships between research institutions and private or nonprofit entities that focus on emerging technology projects. Supporters argue that this collaboration will lead to innovation and job creation, especially in sectors related to space technology and research. By making more organizations eligible for funding, the bill positions Texas as a leading player in technology development and research superiority.

Summary

SB1047 amends the Government Code to broaden eligibility for funding from the Texas emerging technology fund. This expansion allows innovation and commercialization organizations affiliated with the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center to access financial resources aimed at promoting technological advances. By doing so, the bill seeks to enhance collaboration between these organizations and public or private institutions of higher education in Texas, encouraging partnerships that could lead to significant economic benefits for the state.

Contention

However, the expansion of eligibility has sparked discussions regarding the allocation of state funds. Concerns have been raised about ensuring that public educational institutions do not lose out on crucial resources to private organizations. Critics argue that prioritizing commercialization over traditional research funding could undermine academic pursuits and public accountability regarding the use of state funds. The balance between supporting innovation and ensuring equitable funding distribution among research entities may become a focal point in future debates around the bill.