Texas House Bill HJR53

Texas 2017 - 85th 1st C.S.

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment transferring certain surplus state revenue in the economic stabilization fund and dedicating that revenue to public education.

Impact

If enacted, HJR53 would institutionalize the transfer of surplus funds under certain conditions, effectively linking state fiscal health with investments in public education. This could lead to more consistent funding for schools, as it provides a mechanism for allocating additional resources during times of economic surplus. Supporters of the amendment argue that it prioritizes education funding and creates a more reliable funding source for the state's educational institutions, which is crucial given the ongoing discussions around educational quality and resource allocation in Texas.

Summary

HJR53 proposes an amendment to the Texas Constitution that focuses on transferring surplus state revenue from the economic stabilization fund directly to public education. According to the bill, on the 91st day of each state fiscal year, the state comptroller is required to determine the unencumbered balance of the stabilization fund. If this balance exceeds $10 billion, the surplus will be transferred to the foundation school fund, which supports public free schools in Texas. This measure aims to ensure that excess state revenue is utilized for educational purposes, thereby strengthening the public education system.

Contention

There may be points of contention surrounding the amendment's criteria for transferring funds, particularly if the state experiences fluctuations in revenue or unexpected economic downturns. Critics might argue that tying public education funding to surplus revenue could create instability in budgeting for schools, particularly in lean years. Furthermore, discussions may arise about whether $10 billion is an appropriate threshold, and how such transfers could impact other areas of state spending. Overall, opponents may express concerns regarding the long-term implications for state financial management and educational equity.