WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HJR 76

Proposing a constitutional amendment appropriating certain surplus revenue for school district bond debt.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Mark Dorazio

Texas constitutional amendment directing state surplus revenue toward paying down school district bond debt to reduce long-term interest costs and tax pressures.

Referred to Appropriations
#bonds(s6060) #debt(s0116) #education--primary&secondary--finance(i0250) #resolutions--constitutionalamendments(i0661) #statefinances--appropriations(i0746)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HJR 76

Legislative bill overview

HJR 76 proposes a constitutional amendment that would allow Texas to use surplus state revenue to pay down school district bond debt. This requires voter approval through a statewide referendum. The amendment would create a mechanism for dedicating excess state funds specifically toward reducing the bonded indebtedness that school districts have incurred.

Why is this important

School districts across Texas carry significant bond debt from facility construction and improvements. Using state surplus revenue to reduce this debt could lower the long-term interest costs districts pay and potentially reduce the need for future local property tax increases to service bonds. However, it also represents a choice about how to allocate limited surplus funds that could otherwise address other state priorities.

Potential points of contention

  • Competing budget priorities: Surplus revenue could alternatively fund education operations, healthcare, infrastructure, or tax relief—supporters of other causes will argue their needs are more urgent
  • Property tax implications: While potentially reducing future tax pressure, the amendment doesn't guarantee property tax relief or address underlying school finance equity issues
  • Fiscal sustainability: Using one-time surplus revenue for ongoing debt reduction may create budgeting challenges if surpluses don't materialize in future years

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.