Bill

SB 14

83(R) - 2013
Appropriations
Member Benefits
Pensions
Taxes

Vote Recommendation

Yes
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Positive
  • Neutral

Author(s)

Tommy Williams

Bill Caption

Relating to the fiscal transparency and accountablility of certain entities responsible for public money.

Fiscal Notes

Estimated Two-year Net Impact to General Revenue Related Funds for SB14, As Engrossed: a negative impact of ($915,314) through the biennium ending August 31, 2015. The bill would make no appropriation but could provide the legal basis for an appropriation of funds to implement the provisions of the bill.

Bill Analysis

Summary: SB 14 requires greater fiscal transparency in special districts, counties, cities, and schools. SB 14 would require these government units to disclose their financial obligations, such as outstanding debt, to voters and to publish this financial information on publicly available websites.  SB 14 would also require this financial information be provided to voters prior to elections that could create more debt. SB 14 would forbid the issuance of projects rejected recently by voters.

Analysis: SB 14 promotes transparency in the financial affairs of local governmental units. This limits government because transparency limits the ability of local governments to take on irresponsible financial obligations that often saddle local taxpayers with debt. Support SB 14 because it helps voters hold their representatives accountable for stewarding their tax dollars.

SB 14 is identical to HB 14, which we also supported because it promotes limited government.