Texas Senate Bill SB1167

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the creation of a county assistance district.

Impact

The introduction of SB1167 has the potential to significantly affect how local governance operates within Texas counties. By enabling the creation of county assistance districts, the bill facilitates a more localized approach to resource management and service delivery. This change is seen as a means to enhance the efficiency of government services in response to community demands, particularly in areas that may not receive adequate attention under the state's broader administrative structure.

Summary

SB1167 aims to amend the Local Government Code related to the establishment of county assistance districts in Texas. The bill empowers the commissioners court of a county to call for elections regarding the creation of such districts. This allows for multiple assistance districts within a single county, though it restricts the formation of more than one district per commissioners precinct. The bill's passage is intended to provide local government entities with greater flexibility in managing resources and addressing specific community needs through the creation of these districts.

Contention

While SB1167 has garnered support for its potential to empower local governments, some concerns have been raised regarding the implications of such districts. Critics argue that the establishment of multiple districts could lead to fragmentation of services, create competition for resources, and complicate governance structures within counties. Additionally, there is an underlying tension regarding the oversight of these districts and the financial responsibilities they entail, which may impact taxpayer funding and local priorities.