Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB2020

Filed
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the powers, operations, and boundaries of The Woodlands Township; authorizing a fee.

Impact

Through SB2020, significant powers are afforded to The Woodlands Township district, allowing it to engage in essential activities such as transportation planning, maintenance, and enhancement of mobility services in the area. The establishment of authority to manage and fund local projects is framed as a means to serve public purposes as specified in the Texas Constitution, which could lead to tangible improvements in employment and economic opportunities. Such enhancements are designed to correlate with community interests and the overall welfare of the state's residents.

Summary

SB2020 aims to delineate the powers, operations, and boundaries of The Woodlands Township in Texas while authorizing specific fees pertinent to its governance. The bill emphasizes the necessity of local governance structures in promoting economic diversification, enhancing public services, and addressing traffic-related concerns in the growing community. This legislation recognizes the district's role in managing transport and traffic flow, which is critical for maintaining efficient movement and ultimately improving the quality of life for residents and businesses alike.

Sentiment

Discussions around SB2020 reveal a supportive sentiment towards the autonomy of The Woodlands Township, reflecting a belief that local governance is better suited to address specific community needs compared to broader state rules. There is an overarching view that empowering local authorities can lead to better tailored solutions that promote public welfare. Nonetheless, some voices express concern regarding the potential for overreach in authority, indicating a level of apprehension about how broadly the powers given to the district may be applied.

Contention

Key points of contention include the balance of power between state and local governance. While proponents tout the bill as a means to efficiently manage local issues, opponents argue that it may undermine checks and balances by consolidating too much power within a local authority. Further, the implications of authorized fees are debated, with concerns about their impact on residents and businesses within the district. The overarching theme in these discussions centers on the careful negotiation of interests between economic development and representative governance.

Companion Bills

TX HB4149

Identical Relating to the powers, operations, and boundaries of The Woodlands Township; authorizing a fee.

Previously Filed As

TX HB5311

Relating to the creation and operation of a development zone by and the tax revenue received by The Woodlands Township; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments and taxes.

TX SB2606

Relating to the creation and operation of a development zone by and the tax revenue received by The Woodlands Township; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments and taxes.

TX HB3039

Relating to the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact; authorizing fees.

TX HB5352

Relating to the approval and creation of the Williamson County Development District No. 1; and to the administration, powers, duties, operation, and financing of the district, including the authority to impose an assessment, a tax, and issue bonds.

TX HB1683

Relating to the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact; authorizing fees.

TX SB1540

Relating to the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact; authorizing fees.

TX HB2449

Relating to the creation of the Dallas Municipal Management District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments and fees.

TX HB5282

Relating to the creation of the Dallas Municipal Management District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments and fees.

TX SB1978

Relating to the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact; authorizing fees.

TX HB2557

Relating to the Licensed Professional Counselors Compact; authorizing fees.

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