Texas House Bill HJR19

Texas 2013 - 83rd 1st C.S.

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the transfer of general revenue to the state highway fund and the economic stabilization fund and authorizing the payment from the state highway fund of the principal and interest on certain highway improvement bonds.

Impact

If enacted, HJR19 would affect Texas state laws regarding the management and allocation of general revenue funds. Specifically, it establishes a framework to prioritize funding for transportation infrastructure and economic stabilization. This could lead to a more consistent approach toward financial planning in state budgets as it directly links oil and gas tax revenues to roadway maintenance and improvements, potentially enhancing the state’s infrastructure and job creation in the transportation sector.

Summary

HJR19 proposes a constitutional amendment that enables the transfer of general revenue to both the state highway fund and the economic stabilization fund. It also authorizes the usage of the state highway fund to pay the principal and interest on certain highway improvement bonds. This legislation seeks to ensure that there is a dedicated revenue stream for essential infrastructure investments, primarily roadways, while also supporting the economic stability of the state through the stabilization fund.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HJR19 appears to be generally supportive among legislators and stakeholders involved in infrastructure and economic development. Advocates argue that securing funds for highway projects is crucial for maintaining and improving Texas's transportation network. However, there may be some contention regarding the prioritization of funding, especially in relation to how oil and gas revenues should be allocated compared to other pressing state needs, such as education and healthcare.

Contention

Notable points of contention revolve around the reliance on volatile oil and gas revenues to fund essential services. Critics may express concerns about the sustainability of such funding mechanisms, arguing that it could lead to fluctuating resources for infrastructure projects tied to the ups and downs of the oil market. Furthermore, discussions might arise regarding the independence of the economic stabilization fund and potential constraints on budget-making processes, which could limit the flexibility needed to address diverse community needs.