Texas House Bill HJR31

Texas 2017 - 85th 1st C.S.

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment to restrict the power of the legislature to mandate unfunded costs and requirements on a municipality, county, or school district.

Impact

If enacted, HJR31 would fundamentally alter the relationship between state and local governments by requiring the legislature to allocate specific funding for any new requirements imposed on local entities. This could significantly impact how local governments manage their budgets and planning, as they would not have to shoulder the burden of unfunded mandates. The proposed amendment aims to foster greater fiscal accountability and ensure that municipalities and school districts can prioritize their financial resources without being forced to comply with state mandates that come without funding support.

Summary

HJR31 is a joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment aimed at restricting the Texas legislature's power to impose unfunded mandates on municipalities, counties, and school districts. The resolution seeks to ensure that any law requiring these entities to undertake new activities or modify existing duties that entail financial costs must come with appropriations from the state to cover those costs. This provision is designed to protect local governments from being financially burdened by legislative mandates without providing the necessary funding.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HJR31 appears to be generally positive among local government advocates and officials who perceive it as a much-needed safeguard against the imposition of unfunded obligations. Proponents argue that this amendment would empower local officials to better serve their communities by allowing them to maintain more control over their budgets and operational mandates. Conversely, critics of the bill may express concerns about the potential for a lack of legislative oversight or control over local governance, arguing that some state mandates are necessary for maintaining standards and accountability across the board.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HJR31 involve the balance of power between state and local governance. Proponents emphasize the importance of local autonomy and financial independence, while opponents may warn that restricting legislative authority could impede the state's ability to address broader issues that require uniform standards. The ongoing debate likely reflects a larger philosophical divide regarding the extent of state control versus local government empowerment, highlighting the complexity of governance in the context of budgetary constraints.