Relating to transparency in the reporting of eminent domain authority and the creation of an eminent domain database.
Impact
The implications of HB3988 are significant for both entities with eminent domain authority and the general public. For entities, the requirement to maintain and report detailed information annually could lead to increased administrative burdens. However, it also offers the chance for entities to clarify their authority and operations. For the public, this database will facilitate greater transparency and oversight regarding how eminent domain is exercised, allowing citizens to be more informed about the actions of governmental and private entities that have the power to seize property.
Summary
House Bill 3988 aims to enhance transparency in the reporting of eminent domain authority by requiring the creation of an eminent domain database. This database will be maintained by the Texas comptroller and will provide essential information regarding public and private entities authorized to exercise eminent domain. Under this bill, entities must report specific details, including their authority, geographic territory, and effective dates, and this information must be easily accessible to the public online.
Contention
One notable point of contention surrounding HB3988 relates to the balance between transparency and operational capability for entities exercising eminent domain. Proponents argue that the bill enhances public oversight and accountability, promoting responsible use of eminent domain. However, opponents may raise concerns that the administrative demands on entities could complicate or hinder their operations, particularly for smaller entities that may lack the resources to comply fully with the reporting requirements. This balance between ensuring public knowledge and maintaining effective governmental operations is likely to be a topic of debate among legislators.
Identical
Relating to transparency in the reporting and public availability of information regarding eminent domain authority; providing a civil penalty.
Relating to the creation of the Cross Timbers Regional Utility Authority; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments and fees.
Relating to the creation of the Tabor Ranch Municipal Management District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes; granting a limited power of eminent domain.
Relating to the creation of the Tabor Ranch Municipal Management District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes; granting a limited power of eminent domain.
Relating to the creation of the Sandow Municipal Utility District No. 1; granting a limited power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.
Relating to the transfer of the regulation of property tax professionals from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation to the comptroller of public accounts; providing civil and administrative penalties.
Relating to the abolishment of the Texas Council on Purchasing from People with Disabilities and the transfer of its functions to the Texas Workforce Commission.
Relating to the abolishment of the Texas Council on Purchasing from People with Disabilities and the transfer of its functions to the comptroller of public accounts.
Relating to a Pan American Games trust fund, an Olympic Games trust fund, a Major Events trust fund, a Motor Sports Racing trust fund, and an Events trust fund for sporting and non-sporting events, and to the abolishment of the special event trust fund.