Texas Senate Bill SJR75

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the issuance of general obligation bonds to be paid out of the economic stabilization fund by the Texas Water Development Board to provide financial assistance to political subdivisions for projects related to disaster recovery; disaster mitigation; disaster response; or construct, repair, rehabilitate, or reconstruct state or local infrastructure.

Impact

If passed, SJR75 would significantly amend the Texas Constitution by authorizing the state to provide financial assistance for essential projects aimed at restoring and improving public infrastructure. By facilitating this kind of investment, the amendment seeks to ensure that local governments have the necessary resources to enhance their response to disasters. This financial support can lead to better planning and construction of infrastructure that can withstand adverse conditions, ultimately contributing to public safety and economic stability.

Summary

SJR75 is a joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment that allows the Texas Water Development Board to issue general obligation bonds, capped at $10 billion, to support various projects related to disaster recovery, mitigation, and response. These bonds would be funded through the state's economic stabilization fund, which provides a financial safety net during economic downturns. The intent is to bolster state and local infrastructure resilience against disasters, thereby improving community recovery capabilities.

Contention

Notable points of contention around SJR75 may arise from discussions regarding state versus local control. Critics might argue that while the intention is to help with disaster recovery, such a centralized approach could overshadow local efforts and needs. Additionally, there may be debates about the potential long-term fiscal implications of issuing such significant bonds, specifically regarding how this may affect the state's financial obligations and future budgets.