Relating to the creation of the disaster response loan fund and the permissible uses of that fund; making an appropriation; authorizing a fee.
Impact
If enacted, the bill will significantly impact the state's emergency management approach by formalizing a structure for financial assistance during disaster events. Local governments will benefit directly from the availability of loans that can be utilized for specific recovery projects approved by the Texas Division of Emergency Management. Additionally, the bill mandates that funds must be used solely for disaster-related expenditures, which prioritizes local recovery efforts and supports community resilience. The initial appropriation of $500 million to kickstart the fund demonstrates the state’s commitment to enhancing disaster response capabilities.
Summary
House Bill 1917 establishes the Disaster Response Loan Fund aimed at providing short-term financial assistance to political subdivisions affected by disasters. The fund is created outside the state treasury and will be administered by the comptroller's office. It will allow municipalities and other local governments to secure loans to aid in immediate response and recovery efforts in areas declared disaster zones by the governor. Funding for the loan program includes appropriated money, repayments, and any contributions made to the fund, ensuring a dedicated financial resource for emergency situations.
Sentiment
The general sentiment around HB 1917 appears to be positive across the legislature, as the bill received overwhelming support during voting, with only 6 nays reported. Supporters argue that establishing a dedicated disaster response fund is crucial for ensuring that local governments have the necessary financial tools to address challenges posed by natural disasters effectively. Stakeholders perceive the creation of this fund as a proactive measure that acknowledges the increasing frequency and severity of such events due to climate change.
Contention
While the bill is primarily seen as a beneficial initiative, potential points of contention may arise from the implementation details, particularly how loans will be managed and the eligibility criteria for local governments. Some legislators have raised concerns about the limits on the fund and the criteria for applying for loans, implying that the process should be transparent and designed to allow as many local entities as possible to access aid promptly. Furthermore, incorporating safeguards to ensure that loans do not interfere with federal disaster assistance is a crucial aspect that stakeholders will watch closely.
Relating to small business recovery funds and insurance tax credits for certain investments in those funds; imposing a monetary penalty; authorizing fees.
Relating to funding of excess losses and operating expenses of the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association; authorizing an assessment; authorizing a surcharge.
Relating to agreements authorizing a limitation on taxable value of certain property to provide for the creation of jobs and the generation of state and local tax revenue; authorizing fees; authorizing penalties.
Relating to the allocation of certain constitutional transfers of money to the economic stabilization fund, the state highway fund, and the Grow Texas fund and to the permissible uses of money deposited to the Grow Texas fund.
Relating to the establishment of the workforce housing capital investment fund program to fund the development of workforce housing in this state; authorizing a fee.
Relating to the transfer of the regulation of property tax professionals from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation to the comptroller of public accounts; providing civil and administrative penalties.
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.
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.
Relating to a Pan American Games trust fund, an Olympic Games trust fund, a Major Events trust fund, a Motor Sports Racing trust fund, and an Events trust fund for sporting and non-sporting events, and to the abolishment of the special event trust fund.