Texas House Bill HJR27

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

• Filed: 11/14/22
• Out of House Committee: 4/24/23
• Voted on by House: 5/1/23

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the creation of and use of money in the Grow Texas fund and allocating certain general revenues to that fund, the economic stabilization fund, and the state highway fund.

Impact

The immediate impact of HJR27 would be to amend existing state laws regarding fund allocations, specifically directing a portion of general revenues to the Grow Texas fund, the economic stabilization fund, and the state highway fund. This shift in fiscal policy has the potential to enhance infrastructure in oil and gas regions, as well as support educational and public safety initiatives, thereby aiming to bolster the local economies of these areas. Furthermore, the bill establishes a structure for administering these funds through a newly created commission, which will oversee appropriations and advise the legislature, thereby providing a mechanism for accountability in fund management.

Summary

HJR27, also known as the Grow Texas Fund proposal, is a joint resolution aimed at amending the Texas Constitution to establish and utilize a fund dedicated to areas of the state significantly impacted by oil and gas production. The amendment proposes creating the Grow Texas fund, which will allocate resources from the general revenue fund for various purposes, including infrastructure enhancements, education, and public safety. By earmarking these funds, the bill seeks to provide a focused approach to economic stabilization and development in energy-producing areas, ensuring that they receive the necessary financial support for critical infrastructure projects.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HJR27 appears to be largely positive, particularly from stakeholders within the oil and gas industry. Advocates, including representatives from the Texas Oil and Gas Association, have expressed strong support for the bill, citing its potential to alleviate infrastructure burdens and promote growth in areas reliant on oil and gas outputs. However, potential concerns may arise regarding the long-term implications of dedicating state resources specifically to certain regions, which could be viewed as favoritism over other equally deserving areas that may not experience the same level of direct benefit.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HJR27 could center on the allocation mechanisms and the potential prioritization of funds towards oil and gas interests at the expense of broader state needs. While proponents champion the bill as a necessary measure to invest in local infrastructure, critics may argue that it could divert funds from other critical areas needing investment. Additionally, the temporary provisions linked with the fund's establishment and its operational timelines could raise questions about sustainability and the effective use of dedicated resources over time.