Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas House Bill HB1379

Filed
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to coercive conditions placed on the receipt by this state of federal money.

Impact

If enacted, HB1379 will empower the state attorney general and the Legislative Budget Board by requiring them to identify and report federal programs that impose coercive conditions. The act also allows the attorney general to take legal action against such conditions, potentially challenging the enforcement of these stipulations. This could affect various funding streams for the state, particularly those significant programs where federal compliance has been historically tied to funding—such as health, education, and infrastructure initiatives. Ultimately, the bill could fundamentally change how Texas interacts with federal funding, as it emphasizes a position of resistance against perceived federal overreach.

Summary

House Bill 1379 focuses on addressing what are termed 'coercive conditions' placed on the receipt of federal funds by the state of Texas. The bill defines these conditions as obligations that require the state or its political subdivisions to enact or amend laws that are not related to the disbursement of those funds. Essentially, the bill aims to safeguard Texas against federal funding that could compel state legislation or revenue allocation to comply with federal mandates. This reflects a broader trend in state legislative movements to assert more autonomy in the face of federal government initiatives.

Contention

The bill's discussion is expected to draw varying opinions among legislators. Proponents argue that the legislation is vital for maintaining state rights and resisting federal control, especially in areas where federal conditions may not align with state interests. Conversely, critics may contend that the bill risks the loss of essential federal funding that supports crucial public services in Texas. The debate surrounding HB1379 encapsulates the broader ideological divide regarding federal versus state powers and the implications of reliance on federal assistance for state programs.

Companion Bills

TX SB1222

Similar Relating to the control of conditional federal funds for state programs.

Previously Filed As

TX SB307

Relating to the enforcement within this state of certain federal laws for federally declared public health emergencies.

TX HB138

Relating to the enforcement within this state of certain federal laws regarding immigration.

TX SB242

Relating to the identification of and prohibited cooperation by state and local entities with certain federal acts that violate the United States Constitution.

TX HB262

Relating to the identification of and prohibited cooperation by state and local entities with certain federal acts that violate the United States Constitution.

TX HB7

Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing a Texas Border Force, and to compensate persons affected by those threats; increasing criminal penalties; creating criminal offenses.

TX HB127

Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing a Texas Homeland Security Division, and to compensate persons affected by those threats.

TX HB1550

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Office of State-Federal Relations.

TX SB1400

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Office of State-Federal Relations.

TX HB13

Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing the Texas Homeland Security Division and the Border Security Advisory Council, and to compensate persons affected by those threats.

TX HB2817

Relating to establishing a program allowing certain students who are educationally disadvantaged, have a disability, or failed certain assessment instruments to use state money or money the state receives for the purpose from gifts and non-federal grants to pursue certain educational alternatives to public schools.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.