Relating to the reimbursement of state funds used on out-of-state travel by elected officers.
Impact
If implemented, the provisions of HB 33 would strengthen the oversight role of the Texas Ethics Commission in monitoring state-funded travel activities by elected officials. The bill sets clear requirements for reporting travel funded by state resources, which is expected to foster a culture of fiscal responsibility among state officers. The process of requiring reimbursements for travel deemed not related to official state business ensures that public funds are utilized appropriately.
Summary
House Bill 33 focuses on the reimbursement process for state funds utilized by elected officers for out-of-state travel. The bill stipulates that any elected officer using state funds for transportation or security outside Texas must file a disclosure with the Texas Ethics Commission. The disclosure requires specific details about the travel, including dates, locations, costs, purposes, and the use of state-funded personnel. This effort aims to enhance transparency and accountability regarding how taxpayer money is spent on travel for state officials.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 33 appears to be generally positive, particularly among proponents of government accountability and transparency. Supporters believe that enhancing disclosure requirements for travel will help to restore public trust in elected officials. However, some opposition may stem from concerns about a potential bureaucratic burden placed on state officers required to comply with the new reporting and reimbursement requirements.
Contention
While the bill is largely focused on transparency, some opposition could arise from concerns over how strictly the definitions of 'official state business' are interpreted by the Texas Ethics Commission. Members of the legislature may worry about the implications of the disclosure process impacting their ability to conduct necessary travel for their roles effectively. Nonetheless, the primary contention revolves around the balance between accountability and operational efficiency for state officials.
Relating to the establishment of the state health benefit plan reimbursement review board and the reimbursement for health care services or supplies provided under certain state-funded health benefit plans.
Relating to the disclosure of certain gifts, grants, contracts, and financial interests received from a foreign source by certain state agencies, public institutions of higher education, and state contractors, and to the approval and monitoring of employment-related foreign travel and activities by certain public institution of higher education employees; providing civil and administrative penalties.
Relating to the disclosure of certain gifts, grants, contracts, and financial interests received from a foreign source by certain state agencies, public institutions of higher education, and state contractors, and to the approval and monitoring of employment-related foreign travel and activities by certain public institution of higher education employees; providing civil and administrative penalties.
Relating to border security enhancement projects, the creation of a fund to pay for those projects, and a study on certain projects; allocating the earnings on the fund balance and reimbursement of related expenditures; granting the power of eminent domain.