Texas Senate Bill SJR21

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for an annual state budget and annual legislative sessions for budget purposes.

Impact

The proposed changes by SJR21 will have substantial implications for the state's financial management. By shifting to an annual budgetary process, the legislature would have more frequent opportunities to assess the state's financial status and make adjustments. This could lead to more timely responses to economic fluctuations and potentially bolster fiscal accountability and transparency. However, critics of the bill may argue that this could also result in increased workloads for legislators and a potential increase in political maneuvering during budget discussions.

Summary

SJR21 is a joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment that mandates the establishment of an annual state budget and annual legislative sessions aimed specifically at budget considerations. The amendment seeks to modify Article III of the Texas Constitution, outlining the frequency and purpose of legislative sessions, ensuring that the state legislature meets every year to discuss and plan the state budget as opposed to the current biennial framework. This change is aimed at increasing the responsiveness of the state government to financial issues and ensuring more consistent oversight of state appropriations over the years.

Contention

Notably, the bill introduces limitations on what can be discussed during the proposed budget sessions, restricting discussion strictly to appropriations, state revenue, and emergency matters presented by the governor. This creates a framework where budgetary issues are prioritized over general legislative business, which may lead to debates regarding the adequacy of funding for various programs and the legislative ability to address urgent policy issues that do not directly relate to the budget. As such, there may be tension between legislative priorities and fiscal discipline.

Implementation

If passed, SJR21 would go into effect on September 1, 2023, and it would not affect any appropriations made prior to this date for the fiscal years ending August 31, 2025. It also stipulates a requirement for voter approval, meaning constituents will have a say regarding this significant overhaul of the legislative budgeting process. This empowers citizens in the decision-making and emphasizes the democratic process in budget-related governance in Texas.