Texas Senate Bill SB1921

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 3/5/25
• Out of Senate Committee: 4/7/25
• Voted on by Senate: 4/16/25
• Out of House Committee: 5/9/25
• Voted on by House: 5/15/25
• Governor Action: 5/28/25

Caption

Relating to a common characteristic or use project in a public improvement district in certain municipalities.

Impact

If enacted, SB1921 would primarily impact the regulatory framework governing public improvement districts by tightening the criteria around who can petition for their establishment. This could lead to enhanced focus on hotel and tourism development, as the amendments keep the growth of these sectors in mind. The bill may simplify the processes involved in creating improvement districts, thereby encouraging municipalities to harness funding and resources for hotel-related projects. However, this localized focus might overshadow public interests if the criteria are perceived as overly restrictive or catered solely to hotel management interests.

Summary

SB1921 aims to amend sections of the Local Government Code related to public improvement districts (PIDs) specifically for projects associated with hotels. The bill introduces new definitions and criteria for qualified petitioners who can establish or renew a PID, stating that a petition must be signed by those representing more than 60% of the appraised value of hotel properties within the district. This shift is intended to streamline the establishment process of PIDs and bolster support for projects closely tied to the hotel industry, which is assuming a crucial role in boosting local economies.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding SB1921 appears supportive from those within the hotel and hospitality industries, who see it as a positive step toward fostering development and increasing operational efficiencies through clearer guidelines. Conversely, there could be concerns among community advocates and local government representatives regarding potential overreach into local governance and the risk of prioritizing commercial interests over community needs. Such perspectives suggest a critical dichotomy in views toward leveraging public investment for private benefit.

Contention

Debate on SB1921 highlights a key contention regarding the balance between promoting economic development through streamlined processes for public improvement districts and ensuring that local voices are heard in the planning and execution of such projects. The bill's changes could spark concerns about community involvement and the potential exclusion of smaller stakeholders in local property discussions. Nonetheless, the legislative support—reflected in its passage—indicates a prevailing belief in the need for effective frameworks that can adapt to the changing dynamics of local economies.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Local Government Code

• Chapter 372. Improvement Districts In Municipalities And Counties
  • Section: 0015
  • Section: 005
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  • Section: 0035
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  • Section: 0015
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  • Section: 0015
  • Section: 0035
  • Section: 005
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  • Section: 0015
  • Section: 0035
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  • Section: 0015
  • Section: 0035
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  • Section: New Section