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HJR 81

Proposing a constitutional amendment regarding the dedication by general law of money received by this state and money held in or deposited to an account or fund inside or outside the state treasury and the authorized expenditure or appropriation of money dedicated by general law.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Richard Raymond

Constitutional amendment clarifying legislative power to dedicate and appropriate state revenues held inside or outside the treasury through general law.

Referred to Appropriations
#resolutions--constitutionalamendments(i0661) #statefinances--appropriations(i0746) #statefinances--management&control(i0748)
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Bill Summary · HJR 81

Legislative bill overview

HJR 81 proposes a constitutional amendment to clarify Texas state law regarding how the legislature can dedicate revenue sources (including money in state accounts and funds outside the treasury) and control expenditure of those dedicated funds. The amendment would establish clearer legal authority for the general law process governing dedication and appropriation of state money.

Why is this important

This amendment addresses a potential constitutional ambiguity about legislative power over dedicated funds—money that may be set aside for specific purposes either inside or outside the state treasury. Clarifying these rules affects how Texas can manage special funds, trust accounts, and revenue streams, which has real implications for budgeting flexibility and fiscal control during legislative sessions.

Potential points of contention

  • Flexibility vs. restrictions: The amendment could either expand or limit legislative ability to redirect dedicated funds, depending on how it's interpreted—some may see it as necessary clarification while others view it as a power grab or constraint on future legislatures
  • Off-budget accounting: Explicitly authorizing money "outside the state treasury" to be dedicated and appropriated raises concerns about transparency and accountability for funds outside normal legislative oversight
  • Scope ambiguity: The bill's language is broad enough that stakeholders disagree on whether it primarily clarifies existing practice or materially changes legislative authority over revenue dedication

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

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