Texas Senate Bill SB1972

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to the creation of a grant program to provide money for security at certain major events; authorizing fees.

Impact

The bill is intended to promote economic development in Texas by facilitating the successful organization of major events, thereby benefiting local economies. The implementation of this grant program is expected to attract more events to the state and ensure they operate safely, potentially leading to increased tourism and commerce. However, the bill also places responsibilities on local governments, requiring them to responsibly manage grant funds and ensure they are used solely for the intended security services.

Summary

SB1972 proposes the establishment of a Major Events Security Grant Program aimed at providing funding for security at significant events occurring in Texas. This bill amends existing law to include provisions for counties and municipalities to apply for grants specifically designated for security purposes related to annually held events with substantial economic impact, defined as exceeding $300 million in the previous year. Through this program, local governments can contract with the state to ensure that adequate security measures are in place for large events, enhancing public safety.

Contention

Notably, there might be concerns about the financial implications of the program, particularly regarding the authorization of fees and penalties associated with the grants. The bill outlines a competitive application process and criteria for prioritizing local government requests, but critics may argue whether this could lead to inequities between different counties or municipalities based on their resources and needs. Moreover, the requirement for the state’s legislature to specifically appropriate funds for these grants before any implementation may lead to uncertainty regarding the program's sustainability and effectiveness in the long term.