Texas House Bill HJR35

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 11/12/24
• Out of House Committee: 5/8/25
• Voted on by House: 5/12/25

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the creation of and use of money in the Grow Texas fund and allocating certain general revenues to that fund, the economic stabilization fund, and the state highway fund.

Impact

If passed, this amendment would modify Article III of the Texas Constitution to include provisions regarding the Grow Texas fund. Funds allocated to this new fund could only be used for infrastructure projects in regions predominantly impacted by oil and gas, thereby tailoring financial resources to support areas directly linked to these industries. Additionally, the comptroller of public accounts would be responsible for the precise mechanisms of revenue transfer, fostering a structured approach to these expenditures.

Summary

HJR35 proposes a constitutional amendment that aims to establish and allocate funds to the Grow Texas fund, alongside existing funds such as the economic stabilization fund and the state highway fund. This initiative is particularly focused on directing general revenue to regions of Texas that are significantly affected by oil and gas production. The amendment sets specific guidelines for revenue allocation and introduces the Grow Texas fund as a dedicated source for addressing infrastructure needs in those areas.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HJR35 appears cautiously optimistic among supporters who see it as a vital step toward economic development for areas reliant on oil and gas. Advocates argue the fund is necessary for upgrading local infrastructure that directly benefits those communities. However, apprehensions remain among critics who worry that the specificity of allocations could neglect other pressing state infrastructure needs and possibly create disparities in funding across the state.

Contention

A notable point of contention is the mandated cap of $250 million that can be allocated to the Grow Texas fund during any fiscal biennium, which some may argue limits the potential impact of the fund. Additionally, the process by which funds are to be appropriated and governed could lead to debates over transparency and the efficacy of fund management. Critics may also challenge whether focusing only on oil and gas regions could exclude rural or underserved areas needing infrastructure improvements.