Texas House Bill HB3067

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the composition of an administrative authority for a defense economic readjustment zone.

Impact

The legislation is expected to enhance the effectiveness and responsiveness of local decision-making in defense economic readjustment zones. By allowing such authority to have members who are representative of the relevant stakeholders, it aims to facilitate better coordination among entities involved in development efforts. This could lead to a more streamlined approach to managing resources and addressing community needs in regions affected by shifts in defense-related economic activity.

Summary

House Bill 3067 proposes changes to the composition of the administrative authority responsible for overseeing defense economic readjustment zones in Texas. The bill allows the governing body of a readjustment zone to delegate its administrative duties to a group appointed by that governing body, designated as the administrative authority. This group must consist of an uneven number of members (3, 5, 7, 9, 11, or 15) and should include representatives from various public or private entities invested in the zone's development, ensuring that those most affected by decisions have a voice in the governance process.

Contention

While the bill passed unanimously in the Texas House with a vote of 147 yeas and no nays, discussions around its implications may include differing opinions on how much power should be vested in these administrative authorities. Some stakeholders may express concern over the potential for centralization of decision-making and the loss of influence by smaller community members who could be overshadowed by larger stakeholders. The legislative design encourages inclusivity, but the effectiveness of actual representation remains to be seen as the bill is implemented.