Texas Senate Bill SB1939

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 3/5/25
• Out of Senate Committee: 3/31/25
• Voted on by Senate: 4/2/25
• Out of House Committee: 5/16/25
• Voted on by House: 5/23/25
• Governor Action: 6/20/25

Caption

Relating to the ship channel improvement revolving fund.

Impact

If passed, SB1939 would significantly impact how state revenue, particularly that which is associated with ship channel improvements, is allocated. By allowing the general revenue fund to utilize these earnings, the bill seeks to facilitate a more dynamic financial environment for governance. This could lead to more effective funding on transportation projects and initiatives that are vital for the state’s economic infrastructure.

Summary

SB1939 aims to amend regulations regarding the ship channel improvement revolving fund in Texas. The bill modifies how interest accrued on certain dedicated revenues can be utilized, making it available for general governmental purposes rather than being restricted to specific accounts. This change is intended to provide greater flexibility in the management of state funds, potentially enhancing the operational efficiency of government processes related to transportation and infrastructure improvements.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding SB1939 appears to be moderately supportive, particularly from those focused on improving state transportation infrastructure. Proponents argue that the bill will increase the availability of funds for necessary improvements and streamline financial processes. However, some skepticism remains regarding the potential for misuse of funds and the implications of diverting these revenues from their original intended purposes.

Contention

One notable point of contention involves the fear that reallocating these funds might undermine specific projects that rely on the dedicated revenue, thereby impacting local needs tied to ship channels. Critics of the bill are concerned that allowing these earnings to be utilized for general governmental purposes could detract from the specific planning and improvements necessary for maintaining and developing critical transport channels in Texas.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Transportation Code

• Chapter 56. Funding Of Ship Channel Improvements
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section

Government Code

• Chapter 403. Comptroller Of Public Accounts
  • Section: 0956
  • Section: 0956
  • Section: 0956
  • Section: 0956
  • Section: 0956
  • Section: 0956

Education Code

• Chapter 51. Provisions Generally Applicable To Higher Education
  • Section: New Section