Texas Senate Bill SB494

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 2/1/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 3/14/11
• Voted on by Senate: 3/24/11
• Refer: 2/14/11
• Out of House Committee: 4/29/11
• Report Pass: 3/14/11
• Voted on by House: 5/23/11
• Engrossed: 3/24/11
• Governor Action: 6/17/11
• Refer: 4/4/11
• Report Pass: 4/28/11
• Enrolled: 5/23/11
• Passed: 6/17/11

Caption

Relating to the authority of certain local governmental entities to borrow money for a public hospital.

Impact

The impact of SB494 extends to local governments' financial operations, as it will allow these entities significant autonomy to secure loans up to certain maturity limits. Specifically, if tax revenue is pledged, the loan must mature within one year; if hospital revenue is pledged, it can extend up to five years. This change can enhance the cash flow and operational capabilities of public hospitals, facilitating necessary improvements and better service delivery for communities.

Summary

SB494 proposes to amend the Texas Health and Safety Code by introducing a new Chapter 315, which relates to the authority of certain local governmental entities to borrow money specifically for public hospitals. The bill defines which entities can borrow funds, including hospital districts, municipal hospital authorities, county hospital authorities, municipalities, and counties. This legislation aims to provide local governments with more financial flexibility in managing public hospitals, which are crucial for community health services.

Contention

Although the bill appears largely beneficial for local health governance, it could also raise concerns regarding the management of public funds. Critics might argue that increased borrowing could lead to unsustainable debt levels for local governments. Moreover, there may be apprehensions about the criteria and the process by which these loans are secured, emphasizing the need for robust oversight to ensure that borrowed funds are used effectively and do not compromise the fiscal health of the borrowing entities.