Texas 2013 - 83rd 2nd C.S.

Texas House Bill HCR15

Caption

Authorizing the 83rd Legislature to appropriate an amount that exceeds the amount authorized by Section 22(a), Article VIII, Texas Constitution.

Impact

Should HCR15 be enacted, it would allow the 83rd Legislature to appropriate state tax revenues beyond the limits set by Section 22(a) of Article VIII of the Texas Constitution for the fiscal biennium ending August 31, 2015. This flexibility in funding is aimed at enhancing the state’s ability to initiate and support critical transportation projects, effectively removing a legal barrier that may impede timely infrastructure development. The bill, therefore, represents a proactive approach to addressing the pressing demand for improved transportation systems which are vital for economic stability and growth.

Summary

HCR15 is a House Concurrent Resolution that addresses the urgent need for financing transportation infrastructure projects in Texas. The resolution emphasizes that such financing is crucial for promoting long-term economic growth within the state. Furthermore, it notes that appropriations related to these infrastructure projects are separate from those made by the general appropriations bill, indicating a distinct funding mechanism that prioritizes transportation needs. The resolution explicitly recognizes the current economic context, suggesting that existing fiscal limitations call for immediate action to secure funding.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding HCR15 was generally supportive, particularly among legislators who recognize the importance of transportation infrastructure in facilitating economic activity. Advocates likely included not only legislators but also industry stakeholders who stand to benefit from enhanced transportation frameworks. However, any opposition primarily stemmed from concerns about fiscal oversight and the implications of exceeding constitutional spending limits without clear accountability, emphasizing the need for responsible budget practices even amidst urgent needs.

Contention

Notable points of contention may revolve around the constitutional implications of exceeding the set financial limits for budgetary appropriations. While proponents push for immediate action to finance important transportation projects, critics may question the long-term fiscal discipline this sets for future legislative sessions. They might argue that bypassing established limits could lead to unpredictable budgetary outcomes and potentially stifle other critical areas of state spending that require attention. Thus, the bill's discussions inherently reflect a balancing act between immediate infrastructure needs and fiscal responsibility.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HJR33

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for an annual state budget and annual legislative sessions for budget purposes.

TX SCR2

Extending the duty of the comptroller of public accounts under Section 7-c, Article VIII, Texas Constitution, to deposit certain tax revenue to the state highway fund.

TX HCR47

Extending the duty of the comptroller of public accounts under Section 7-c, Article VIII, Texas Constitution, to deposit certain tax revenue to the state highway fund.

TX HJR2

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the 88th Legislature to provide a cost-of-living adjustment to certain annuitants of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.

TX HJR2

Proposing a constitutional amendment to authorize the legislature to establish a temporary limit on the maximum appraised value of real property other than a residence homestead for ad valorem tax purposes; to increase the amount of the exemption from ad valorem taxation by a school district applicable to residence homesteads; to adjust the amount of the limitation on school district ad valorem taxes imposed on the residence homesteads of the elderly or disabled to reflect increases in certain exemption amounts; to except certain appropriations to pay for ad valorem tax relief from the constitutional limitation on the rate of growth of appropriations; and to authorize the legislature to provide for a four-year term of office for a member of the governing body of certain appraisal entities.

TX HJR14

Proposing a constitutional amendment to increase the amount of the exemption from ad valorem taxation by a school district applicable to residence homesteads, to adjust the amount of the limitation on school district ad valorem taxes imposed on the residence homesteads of the elderly or disabled to reflect increases in certain exemption amounts, to establish the property tax relief to rental households fund and authorize the legislature to provide payments to rental households from that fund based on a proportion of rent paid, and to except certain appropriations to pay for school district ad valorem tax relief and property tax relief payments to rental households from the constitutional limitation on the rate of growth of appropriations.

TX SB30

Relating to supplemental appropriations and reductions in appropriations and giving direction and adjustment authority regarding appropriations.

TX SJR3

Proposing a constitutional amendment to authorize the legislature to limit the maximum appraised value of real property for ad valorem tax purposes, to increase the amount of an exemption from ad valorem taxation by a school district applicable to residence homesteads, to adjust the amount of the limitation on school district ad valorem taxes imposed on the residence homesteads of the elderly or disabled to reflect increases in certain exemption amounts, and to except certain appropriations to pay for ad valorem tax relief from the constitutional limitation on the rate of growth of appropriations.

TX HB500

Relating to supplemental appropriations and reductions in appropriations and giving direction and adjustment authority regarding appropriations.

TX HJR159

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to exempt from ad valorem taxation a mineral interest that has a value of less than a certain amount.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.