Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1712

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

Caption

Relating to the abolishment of certain advisory committees and other state entities.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1712 will lead to significant changes within the state's existing governance structure. The abolishment of various oversight and advisory committees may lead to a more streamlined decision-making process in state affairs. However, critics argue that the dissolution of these committees could hinder necessary oversight functions, especially in areas like mortgage fraud prevention and environmental management. Proponents believe that focusing on core state functions rather than advisory roles may lead to a more fiscally responsible and efficient government.

Summary

House Bill 1712 seeks to streamline state governance by abolishing several advisory committees and other state entities that are deemed unnecessary or redundant. This bill focuses on improving efficiency within state operations by removing these committees, which are often seen as bureaucratic hurdles. The specific committees and councils identified for abolishment in the bill include the Residential Mortgage Fraud Task Force, the Advisory Oversight Community Outreach Committee, and the Rain Harvesting and Water Recycling Task Force, among others. The intent behind these actions is to reduce state-level redundancy and increase government accountability while reallocating resources more effectively.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1712 appears to be mixed, with supporters emphasizing the need for government efficiency and reduced bureaucratic overhead. Conversely, opponents voice concerns regarding the potential loss of dedicated oversight that these advisory committees provide. This reflects a broader contention in legislative discussions about balancing efficient governance with adequate oversight and community engagement.

Contention

A major point of contention within the bill concerns the balance between efficiency and oversight. Supporters argue that the state should prioritize streamlined governance to better serve constituents and respond to their needs. In contrast, critics warn that without these advisory committees, there could be inadequate attention to critical issues that require specialized knowledge, such as environmental protection and housing fraud. This tension reflects a legislative dichotomy between pursuing government efficiency and maintaining adequate oversight mechanisms.

Companion Bills

TX SB526

Similar Relating to the abolishment of certain advisory committees and other state entities.

Similar Bills

TX SB212

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.

TX HB1989

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.

TX SB526

Relating to the abolishment of certain advisory committees and other state entities.

TX HB182

Relating to a study of the economic impact of requiring the disclosure of the sales price of real property.

TX HB666

Relating to a study regarding sales price disclosure of real property.

TX HB866

Relating to a study regarding ad valorem tax relief through the use of a circuit breaker program.

TX SB1288

Relating to a study regarding ad valorem tax relief through the use of a circuit breaker program.

TX HB203

Relating to a study of the impact, feasibility, and advisability of adopting a property tax system in which the disclosure of the sales price of real property is required by law.