Texas Senate Bill SJR53

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment relating to limiting the permissible uses of money appropriated from the economic stabilization fund.

Note

As SJR53 is positioned to be put to a vote, discussions surrounding its implications will likely explore the balance between ensuring fiscal prudence and meeting evolving community infrastructure demands.

Impact

The passage of SJR53 would necessitate a change in the Texas Constitution, directly affecting how the economic stabilization fund can be appropriated. This bill emphasizes fiscal responsibility by restricting how these resources can be allocated, potentially directing funds toward critical needs such as disaster response and debt retirement without a broad application for diverse transportation needs.

Summary

SJR53 proposes a constitutional amendment to limit the permissible uses of money appropriated from the economic stabilization fund. The amendment allows the legislature to appropriate funds from this reserve by a two-thirds vote for specific purposes including retiring state debt, covering costs associated with a declared disaster, and funding nonrecurring costs for roadway infrastructure projects. However, it explicitly excludes costs related to toll roads, pedestrian and bicycle accommodations, mass transit, or multimodal transportation projects. This bill aims to provide clarity and restrictions on how these funds can be utilized.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SJR53 arise from the exclusion of significant areas from funding eligibility. Critics may argue that limiting appropriations for public transportation and related infrastructure could undermine local efforts to enhance mobility and connectivity within communities. Advocates for public transit may feel that this amendment could further entrench transportation disparities and limit necessary investments in sustainable transportation solutions.