Texas Senate Bill SJR23

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 2/10/11
• Refer: 2/17/11

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment increasing the rates of taxes imposed on gasoline and diesel fuel, adjusting those rates annually for inflation, and dedicating certain revenue from those taxes to the design, construction, and maintenance of public roadways.

Impact

If enacted, SJR23 would lead to a systematic increase in fuel taxes, which is intended to ensure a steady stream of funding for public roadways. The regular adjustment for inflation would help the state maintain its purchasing power over time, potentially improving the quality of roads and infrastructure. This amendment would directly affect the Texas tax code and could influence the financial landscape for road maintenance, offering a long-term funding strategy that could promote enhanced travel safety and infrastructure robustness across the state.

Summary

SJR23 is a joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment designed to increase the rates of taxes imposed on gasoline and diesel fuel in Texas. The bill stipulates that these taxes will be adjusted annually for inflation. Furthermore, it mandates that a significant portion of the revenue generated from these taxes will be allocated specifically for the design, construction, and ongoing maintenance of public roadways. This change aims to address funding challenges associated with Texas's extensive transportation needs, especially as population growth continues to put pressure on existing infrastructure.

Sentiment

The sentiments surrounding SJR23 appear to be mixed. Supporters, including transportation advocates and some legislators, argue that increased funding for road maintenance is crucial for economic growth and public safety. They believe that proper investment in infrastructure will yield significant dividends in terms of reduced traffic accidents and improved transit efficiency. On the other hand, critics caution that raising gasoline and diesel taxes may disproportionately affect lower-income individuals and families, who may already struggle with rising costs related to commuting. This has led to concerns about the bill's broader economic impact.

Contention

A notable point of contention involves the reliance on fuel taxes as a primary funding model for roadways, especially in light of increasing vehicle efficiencies and the potential for a decrease in fuel consumption over time. Additionally, the proposal raises questions about the adequacy of the revenue generated and how it will be effectively managed to ensure it exclusively benefits public road maintenance. Critics are particularly concerned that without rigorous oversight, the funds could be misallocated or underutilized, failing to meet the expectations set by the amendment.