Texas House Bill HB3592

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to qualifying projects for public-private partnerships.

Impact

The amendments brought about by HB 3592 could significantly impact the way public infrastructure is developed and operated in Texas. This includes changes to how telecommunications and broadband services can be integrated into public facilities. The prohibition against governmental entities competing with private companies in providing telecom services signals a shift towards encouraging private sector participation in areas traditionally seen as public domain, thereby fostering economic development through enhanced broadband access and better public services.

Summary

House Bill 3592 aims to amend the definition of qualifying projects under Texas’s public-private partnership regulations. The bill expands the scope of what constitutes a qualifying project to include various infrastructure developments such as ferry services, mass transit facilities, vehicle parking facilities, public buildings, and technology infrastructure including broadband communications. By doing so, it seeks to streamline the collaboration between governmental entities and private firms in delivering public infrastructure and services, potentially enhancing efficiency and funding options for state projects.

Contention

Notably, there may be concerns regarding the implications of expanding the definition of qualifying projects. Opponents might worry that such expansions could allow for increased influence of private entities in public services, potentially placing profit motives over public interests. Furthermore, the bill explicitly excludes certain aspects of transportation from its provisions, raising questions about the balance of regulation and local control in public infrastructure projects. This could lead to debates around the adequacy of oversight and the risk of privatization of essential services.