Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Texas House Bill HB2445

Caption

Relating to the addition of territory to a crime control and prevention district.

Impact

The implications of HB 2445 are significant for local governance, as it reinforces the principle of local voter control over fiscal matters related to public safety funding. By requiring a referendum for territorial additions and tax changes, the bill aims to ensure that communities have a say in how they fund crime control measures and where those funds are allocated. This shift could lead to more localized decision-making, empowering citizens to influence the presence and efficacy of law enforcement resources in their neighborhoods.

Summary

House Bill 2445 seeks to modify existing regulations regarding crime control and prevention districts in Texas. Specifically, the bill amends the Local Government Code to stipulate that any addition of territory to a crime control and prevention district, along with the corresponding imposition of a tax within that area, must receive approval from a majority of qualified voters in that territory. This measure emphasizes the need for community input and consent before expanding district boundaries and changing tax obligations.

Sentiment

Sentiment around HB 2445 tends to lean positive, particularly among proponents of local governance and community engagement. Supporters argue that requiring voter approval fosters transparency and accountability, allowing residents to have direct influence over tax implications tied to district expansions. Critics, while less vocal in the snippets provided, may raise concerns about delays in expanding necessary crime prevention resources, suggesting that gaining voter consensus could extend the timeline for critical safety measures.

Contention

A point of contention regarding HB 2445 could arise over the potential limitations it places on the speed at which local governments can respond to emergent crime-related needs. As crime dynamics evolve, the requirement for voter approval before territorial additions could hinder timely responses. The debate centers on balancing the need for local control over taxes and crime prevention against the necessity of swift governmental action in dynamic public safety scenarios.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4492

Relating to the expansion of the territory of an emergency services district into the territory of a municipality.

TX HB1776

Relating to the expansion of the territory of an emergency services district into the territory of a municipality.

TX SB659

Relating to the expansion of the territory of an emergency services district into the territory of a municipality.

TX HB1

Relating to a reduction in the maximum compressed tax rate of a school district and additional state aid for certain school districts impacted by compression.

TX HB1

Relating to a reduction in the maximum compressed tax rate of a school district and additional state aid for certain school districts impacted by compression.

TX SB1848

Relating to the dissolution by election of certain urban area water control and improvement districts.

TX HB2815

Relating to the powers, authorities, duties, and responsibilities of certain conservation and reclamation districts and to notice a person who proposes to sell or convey real property located in any of certain conservation and reclamation districts must provide to a prospective purchaser of that property.

TX HB5405

Relating to the conversion of the Legacy Water Control and Improvement District to the Legacy Municipal Management District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX SB2521

Relating to the powers, authorities, duties, and responsibilities of certain conservation and reclamation districts.

TX SB1794

Relating to conditions imposed on an emergency services district that includes territory in the extraterritorial jurisdiction of certain municipalities.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.