Relating to a requirement that the ballot for an election to amend the state constitution include an estimate of the fiscal impact to the state of the proposed amendment.
Impact
If enacted, this bill will affect how constitutional amendments are presented to voters in Texas. Specifically, the Legislative Budget Board will be tasked with estimating costs—whether recurring or one-time—associated with proposed amendments. These estimates will need to be clearly stated on the ballot, providing a new framework for voters to assess the potential financial impact of their voting choices. This shift aims to foster a more responsible voting environment where economic repercussions are considered alongside political ones.
Summary
House Bill 35 seeks to implement a requirement that any ballot for an election aimed at amending the state constitution must include an estimated fiscal impact associated with the proposed amendment. This measure is designed to enhance transparency for voters by providing them with crucial financial information, thus enabling informed decision-making during elections. The bill amends Section 274.001 of the Election Code, which outlines the form of amendments on ballots, and introduces a new subsection responsible for detailing the fiscal implications of the amendments being proposed.
Contention
While the proposed change has been framed as beneficial for voter education and fiscal responsibility, there may be points of contention regarding its implementation. Critics could argue that the fiscal estimates provided may not always reflect the true impact of amendments, potentially leading to misunderstandings or misinterpretations by the electorate. Additionally, there are concerns regarding the workload this requirement may place on the Legislative Budget Board, which will need to establish protocols for providing these estimates in a timely manner.
Relating to a requirement that the ballot for an election to amend the state constitution include an estimate of the fiscal impact to the state of the proposed amendment.
Relating to a requirement that the ballot for an election to amend the state constitution include an estimate of the cost to the state of the proposed amendment.
Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring elections on proposed amendments to the Texas Constitution to be held in November of even-numbered years.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to require that future constitutional amendments become effective only if approved by a majority of the voters in at least three-fourths of the counties of the state.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to require that future constitutional amendments become effective only if approved by a majority of the voters in at least three-fourths of the counties of the state.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.