Relating to a limit on local government expenditures.
HB 3537 would limit annual spending by Texas local governments (cities, counties, and special districts) to either the previous year's total expenditures or a slightly adjusted amount based on population growth and inflation. The adjustment rate - calculated annually by the Legislative Budget Board using the state's population growth and inflation data - would determine the maximum allowable spending increase. Local governments could exceed this limit only if voters approve additional spending through a special election. Exempt from the limit are bond proceeds approved by voters and grants, donations, or gifts. The law would apply to fiscal years beginning on or after December 1, 2025.
Bill status
in committee
1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Mar 2025
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Mar 24, 2025
Last action Mar 24, 2025
Floor votes
How they voted
No floor votes recorded yet.
Full legislative history
Actions timeline
Total actions
3
Key actions
0
Committee
1
Mar 24, 2025
Committee
Referred to Intergovernmental Affairs
lower
Mar 24, 2025
Introduced
Read first time
lower
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors
Sponsors
Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Steve Toth
RRepublican
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