Texas House Bill HJR41

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

• Filed: 11/13/12

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment to require the comptroller of public accounts to make a state revenue report after the first year of a state fiscal biennium and the governor to call a special session of the legislature if actual state revenue for that fiscal year was at least five percent more or five percent less than projected state revenue.

Impact

The proposed amendment is likely to have significant implications for how Texas manages its budget and fiscal policy. By instituting a requirement for the governor to call a special legislative session based on revenue reports, it enables a more flexible and responsive budgeting process. This could lead to more timely adjustments in appropriations and state-funded services, particularly in cases of unexpected economic downturns or windfalls. It could also standardize revenue assessment practices, enhancing accountability within state financial reporting.

Summary

HJR41 proposes a constitutional amendment aimed at enhancing the state's budgetary oversight mechanisms. It mandates the comptroller of public accounts to produce a report on state revenues after the first year of each fiscal biennium. If the report indicates that actual revenues differ from projections by five percent or more, the governor is required to convene a special session of the legislature. This change seeks to create a structured response to significant revenue fluctuations, ensuring that the legislature can react swiftly to fiscal challenges or surpluses.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HJR41 appears largely positive among fiscal conservatives and those advocating for more stringent budget management practices. Supporters argue that this amendment provides necessary checks and balances, facilitating proactive fiscal governance. However, some critics may express concerns regarding the potential for political maneuvering during special sessions, where key fiscal decisions could be made under urgency, reducing thorough debate and scrutiny.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HJR41 may arise from differing views on fiscal policy and governance. Some stakeholders might contend that frequent special sessions could lead to legislative fatigue or inefficient governance, where vital decisions are rushed rather than thoroughly discussed. Others may question whether the five percent threshold is appropriate, suggesting it might either be too high or too low depending on economic conditions. Overall, the amendment raises discussions about the balance between proactive fiscal management and the risk of politicizing state budgeting processes.