Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas House Bill HCR47

Caption

Extending the duty of the comptroller of public accounts under Section 7-c, Article VIII, Texas Constitution, to deposit certain tax revenue to the state highway fund.

Impact

By extending the deposit requirements to the highway fund, HCR47 ensures that a significant portion of state tax revenue continues to be allocated for transportation infrastructure. This can help address ongoing maintenance needs and support future highway projects, which are essential for economic activity and public safety. The resolution is particularly vital in light of growing traffic demands and the challenges associated with aging infrastructure. Should this resolution pass, it will involve a careful consideration of the state budget and long-term funding strategies for transportation.

Summary

HCR47 is a concurrent resolution that aims to extend certain duties of the comptroller of public accounts regarding the deposit of specific tax revenues into the state highway fund. This proposal extends the existing financial provisions for an additional 10 years, thereby pushing the expiration dates for the comptroller's duties related to the state sales and use tax and motor vehicle sales tax revenues to 2042 and 2039, respectively. The underpinning purpose of this extension is to continue funding for Texas's highways, which is critical for the state's infrastructure development and maintenance.

Sentiment

The discussions surrounding HCR47 have largely been supportive, with several legislators emphasizing the importance of continuous investment in the state's infrastructure. Advocacy groups and stakeholders, particularly those involved in transportation, have also voiced strong support. However, there are hints of caution regarding how this extended funding might adjust overall budget priorities and whether it adequately meets the diverse transportation needs of different regions in Texas.

Contention

One point of contention arises from concerns about the adequacy of the funding levels, particularly as they relate to rising costs associated with construction and maintenance. While extending the deposit mandates is overwhelmingly viewed as a positive step for the infrastructure, some detractors caution against a reliance on these funds without a comprehensive plan to evaluate and adapt to future needs. This sentiment reflects a broader concern about ensuring that the state not only maintains existing infrastructure but also develops new projects to keep pace with population growth and urban development.

Companion Bills

TX SCR2

Identical Extending the duty of the comptroller of public accounts under Section 7-c, Article VIII, Texas Constitution, to deposit certain tax revenue to the state highway fund.

Previously Filed As

TX SCR2

Extending the duty of the comptroller of public accounts under Section 7-c, Article VIII, Texas Constitution, to deposit certain tax revenue to the state highway fund.

TX HCR118

Finding that the diversion of sales tax funds from general revenue to the state highway fund was approved by Texas voters in 2015 and is required under Section 7-c, Article VIII, of the Texas Constitution.

TX HJR101

Proposing a constitutional amendment dedicating a portion of the revenue derived from the state sales and use tax to the Texas Water Development Fund II.

TX SJR5

Proposing a constitutional amendment dedicating a portion of the revenue derived from the state sales and use tax and the tax imposed on the sale, use, or rental of a motor vehicle to the state highway fund.

TX HJR7

Proposing a constitutional amendment to dedicate a portion of the revenue derived from state sales and use taxes to the Texas water fund and to provide for the allocation and use of that revenue.

TX SJR66

Proposing a constitutional amendment dedicating a portion of the revenue derived from state sales and use taxes and insurance premium taxes to the Texas water fund.

TX HJR91

Proposing a constitutional amendment dedicating certain revenue derived from the tax imposed on the sale of motor vehicles to the state highway fund.

TX SJR2

Proposing a constitutional amendment to provide for the transfer of certain general revenue to the economic stabilization fund, to provide for the transfer of certain general revenue to the state highway fund and the dedication of that revenue, and to authorize the payment of the principal and interest on certain highway improvement bonds from other money deposited to the state highway fund.

TX HCR108

Directing the comptroller of public accounts to reduce the amounts of certain revenue that would otherwise be deposited to the state highway fund for the 2018 and 2019 state fiscal years.

TX HJR13

Proposing a constitutional amendment temporarily dedicating a portion of the revenue derived from the state sales and use tax to the state highway fund.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.