Texas House Bill HB5141

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 3/13/25
• Out of House Committee: 5/7/25
• Voted on by House: 5/15/25

Caption

Relating to the lease of certain state property from the Health and Human Services Commission to Travis County.

Impact

The passage of HB 5141 will influence how state property can be utilized and managed. It empowers Travis County to develop the property in a way that serves the public interest, potentially enhancing local amenities and community resources. It also places strict conditions on the use of the property, ensuring that it aligns with public welfare objectives. Meanwhile, the property will remain under the oversight of the Health and Human Services Commission to ensure compliance with the terms of the lease. This arrangement indicates a significant trust and expectation for the county to effectively use state resources for community benefit.

Summary

House Bill 5141 concerns the leasing of specific state property from the Health and Human Services Commission to Travis County. The bill stipulates that the leased property, approximately 16.08 acres located in Austin, must be utilized primarily for public purposes. The terms of the lease are set for a duration of 99 years, during which Travis County is authorized to maintain and develop public amenities on the property. However, if the property is not used for its intended purpose for more than 180 consecutive days, the lease will terminate, and the property will revert to the state commission.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 5141 appears largely positive among supporters who view the bill as a necessary step toward optimizing state resources for local use. Legislators advocating for the bill emphasize its potential to enhance local public services and address community needs. However, there may be concerns about the accountability and effectiveness of local management of the property. The requirement for property usage to align with public purpose may also raise questions about regulatory oversight and ongoing state intervention in local matters.

Contention

While the bill is primarily focused on facilitating the lease of the state property, it raises questions about local governance and the extent of state control over county affairs. Critics may argue that the conditions attached to the lease could impose restrictions on how Travis County develops the property, potentially limiting innovation in public service delivery. Furthermore, the backtracking clause that reverts the property back to the state if not used accordingly has the potential to create tension between local needs and state oversight, prompting discussions about the right balance of authority and responsibility.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Health And Safety Code

• Chapter 533. Powers And Duties Of Department Of State Health Services
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section

Natural Resources Code

• Chapter 31. General Land Office
  • Section: 158
  • Section: 158

• Chapter 1. General Provisions
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section