Bill Caption

Relating to natural disaster housing recovery.

Fiscal Notes

A negative impact of ($471,706) through the biennium ending August 31, 2019.

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

SB 1673 would require the General Land Office (or an alternative agency selected by the governor) to collaborate with the governor and the Hazard Reduction and Recovery Center at Texas A&M University to approve local housing recovery plans that this bill would authorize local governments to create in order to provide for the rapid and efficient construction of permanent replacement housing following a natural disaster.

To perform these duties, the GLO would be granted federal and state funds appropriated for long-term natural disaster recovery. Local housing recovery plans approved by the GLO, A&M, and the governor would remain valid for four years. The bill would only take effect if a specific appropriation for its implementation is provided in the general appropriations act of the 85th Legislature.

Vote Recommendation Notes

This bill infringes on the principle of limited government by authorizing and assisting local governments in creating programs for the construction of replacement housing following a natural disaster. It is not the proper role of government to restore housing damaged in a natural disaster, particularly given that this function is more appropriately fulfilled by private charities and philanthropic organizations. For this reason, we oppose SB 1673.