Bill: HB 4, 83(R) - 2013

Vote Recommendation

Vote Recommendation Economic Freedom Property Rights Personal Responsibility Limited Government Individual Liberty
Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral

Author(s)

Allan Ritter

Bill Caption

Relating to the funding of certain water-related projects by the Texas Water Development Board; authorizing the issuance of revenue bonds.

Fiscal Notes

No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.

Bill Analysis

The Texas legislature must address water development to mitigate against long term drought and to keep pace with a rapidly expanding population. Unfortunately, we must note that this legislation is flawed and does not address the fundamental issues hindering adequate water infrastructure development. Regardless of the flaws, and despite our concerns that this legislation is inadequate to the challenge at hand, we recognize that this legislation makes an attempt to tackle a very difficult and urgent policy issue. Legislators should carefully consider both the positive and negative aspects of HB 4. While we will not make a recommendation on the overall bill, we will recommend on some of the prefiled amendments and other improvements that should be considered.

Summary:

HB 4 creates a fund, outside the treasury, for use by the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB). This fund would be called the State Water Implementation Fund for Texas (SWIFT). TWDB would use SWIFT to fund projects across the state to improve water infrastructure, water conservation projects, and other projects designed to better prepare Texas for future drought conditions and rapid population growth.

While the SWIFT would be funded from the economic stabilization fund (Rainy Day Fund), HB 4 does not actually appropriate funds. HB 4 sets up the SWIFT program and leaves funding to be established under the guidelines outlined in HB 11 (subject to its passage). This is designed to be a one-time expenditure from the Rainy Day Fund.

Concerns:

The Good

Recommendations:

The 83rd Legislature could better address this issue by:

 


Source URL (retrieved on 03/29/2024 12:03 AM): http://reports.texasaction.com/bill/83r/hb4?print_view=true