Texas Senate Bill SJR77

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment relating to the dedication of certain severance tax collections for school district ad valorem tax compression.

Impact

The amendment will directly impact state laws surrounding tax revenue management, specifically affecting how severance taxes—taxes on the extraction of natural resources—are allocated. By dedicating a part of these tax revenues to assist in moderating school district tax rates, SJR77 aims to lessen the financial burden on taxpayers while supporting the educational system. This change could potentially lead to significant shifts in the funding landscapes for schools in Texas, providing a more stable and predictable funding source tied to resource extraction activities.

Summary

SJR77 is a proposed constitutional amendment that aims to dedicate a portion of the state's severance tax collections specifically for the purpose of school district ad valorem tax rate compression. By altering Section 49-g of Article III of the Texas Constitution, the bill seeks to enhance the funding structure for school districts, allowing them to reduce their property tax rates effectively. The dedication of these funds is intended to provide financial relief to property owners and increase equity in school funding across Texas.

Contention

While proponents of SJR77 argue that the bill could lead to a fairer tax system and better funded schools, there are opponents who express concerns regarding the long-term sustainability of relying on severance taxes. Critics highlight that such taxes can fluctuate significantly based on market conditions, which may lead to inconsistent funding for schools. Additionally, some argue that focusing on severance tax revenue does not address broader issues of educational funding inequality and may detract from necessary reforms in the overall school finance system.