Texas Senate Bill SB827

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to the format of the general appropriations bill.

Impact

The implementation of SB827 is poised to bring more clarity and accountability to the state's budgeting process. By requiring detailed reporting on appropriations, the bill could facilitate better oversight of state funding, allowing legislative committees and the public to understand how public funds are allocated across various state programs and activities. This change could improve the efficiency and effectiveness of government spending and provide stakeholders with critical insights into resource distribution.

Summary

SB827 focuses on the format of the general appropriations bill in Texas. The bill mandates that for each state agency or entity receiving funds, there must be a detailed breakdown of appropriations in the format of line items. This includes specifying amounts for specific programs, activities, and their identifiable components, ensuring that the budget reflects the organizational structure of the respective agencies. Furthermore, each line item must include descriptions and legal citations for the appropriations, enhancing transparency in government financial operations.

Contention

While SB827 appears to bolster transparency, it may also encounter opposition based on concerns about the administrative burden it places on state agencies. Advocates of the bill argue that detailed appropriations facilitate informed decision-making and resource allocation, while detractors might raise concerns that the requirements could complicate the budgetary process and slow down the legislative approval for necessary funding. Additionally, the practicality of implementing such detailed reporting requirements could be questioned, particularly in larger agencies managing numerous programs.