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Bill

Bill

SJR 33

Proposing a constitutional amendment to permit additional uses of certain dedicated general revenue transferred each fiscal year to the state highway fund.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Borris Miles

Texas constitutional amendment would expand allowed uses of dedicated general revenue transferred to highway fund annually, pending voter approval.

Referred to Transportation
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Bill Summary · SJR 33

Legislative bill overview

SJR 33 proposes a constitutional amendment to expand how Texas can use dedicated general revenue funds transferred to the state highway fund each fiscal year. Rather than restricting these funds solely to highway construction and maintenance, the amendment would permit additional uses of this revenue. The bill would require voter approval through a constitutional referendum to take effect.

Why is this important

Texas's highway funding structure is constitutionally constrained, meaning changes require voter approval. Expanding permissible uses of dedicated highway revenue could redirect resources to other transportation priorities or state needs, affecting how billions in annual transportation funding are allocated. This directly impacts infrastructure investment decisions and state budget flexibility.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope ambiguity: The bill doesn't specify what "additional uses" are permitted, leaving the actual scope of expanded funding flexibility unclear until implementing legislation follows
  • Highway fund integrity: Critics may argue that dedicated highway revenue should remain restricted to roads to ensure transportation infrastructure investment, while supporters may see flexibility as necessary for modern transportation needs (transit, electric vehicle infrastructure, etc.)
  • Fiscal priorities: The amendment could enable lawmakers to redirect funds from highway construction to other state needs, creating debate over whether this represents responsible budget management or underfunding core infrastructure

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

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