Texas House Bill HR3646

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Commending the 2014-2015 Sunset Advisory Commission review cycle team.

Impact

The bill highlights a historical context where the Sunset Advisory Commission has been instrumental since its inception in 1977 in improving the operations of the Texas government. The proposed actions in the recommendations include a significant positive fiscal impact, estimated at around $66.5 million over the 2016-2017 biennium. This demonstrates a long-standing precedent where every dollar spent on sunset evaluations has resulted in a considerable return on investment for the state, with historical data showcasing a 31-year impact yielding approximately $945.6 million in fiscal gains against $37.2 million in expenditures.

Summary

H.R. No. 3646 is a resolution that commends the staff of the Sunset Advisory Commission for their vital assistance during the 2014-2015 review cycle of state agencies. The resolution recognizes the commission's efforts in developing recommendations aimed at streamlining state government, which has included reviewing 20 different agencies, some of which had significant public testimony and participation during the hearings. The recommendations from the Sunset Advisory Commission led to the proposed elimination of several agencies and the discontinuation of various regulatory programs, ultimately intended to enhance government efficiency and accountability to the citizens of Texas.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around H.R. No. 3646 appears to be positive, coming from a recognition of the professional dedication and analytical rigor demonstrated by the Sunset Advisory Commission staff. This admiration is reflected across the legislature as a proactive approach to maintaining effective governance through regular reviews and improvements to state agencies. Such measures are perceived as critical to ensure that state resources are utilized efficiently in serving the public.

Contention

Though the summary resolution itself may not outline significant contention, underlying themes in discussions around Sunset reviews often revolve around the balance between state control and the autonomy of agencies. Some may argue that eliminating agencies potentially hinders specialized services; however, this resolution emphasizes the ongoing improvement and adaptations in state governance aimed at providing better outcomes for Texas residents. The resolution appears to unify legislative support toward the highlighted need for optimization within the state government framework.