Bill Caption

Relating to money used by certain counties for the low-income vehicle repair assistance, retrofit, and accelerated vehicle retirement program and local initiative air quality projects.

Fiscal Notes

No fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.

Bill Analysis

Under current law, claims made to the Comptroller’s office for a specified appropriation must be made no later than two years after the end of the fiscal year for which the appropriation was made. Claims made for current appropriations include new construction contracts, new air quality technologies, and repair and remodeling projects.

 

House Bill 402 would amend current Tax Code by allowing the vehicle emissions inspection and maintenance program to be included as a claim for an appropriation to the Comptroller’s office. Additionally, the bill would require that counties with a population of at least 4 million receive 90 percent of the fees collected through the vehicle emissions inspection and maintenance program.

Vote Recommendation Notes

While the authority to make changes to certain claims that have been appropriated is within the legitimate responsibility of the government, the provisions of this bill have no relationship to our liberty principles. House Bill 402 neither uplifts nor offends our liberty principles, therefore we remain neutral.