AUSTIN, Texas (AP) - Accounting loopholes the Texas Legislature has long used to balance the state budget would be tightened under two key proposals filed by House Republicans.
Lawmakers vowed this session to pass "truth in budgeting" legislation like the bills filed Monday. The proposals target hundreds of so-called dedicated funds that collect fees for specific programs, such as helping poor families pay utility bills.
Millions of dollars in those funds have historically gone unspent and left on the books as a trick to help lawmakers pass a balanced budget. Legislation filed by Republicans Drew Darby and John Otto would lessen the state's reliance on dedicated accounts.
Lawmakers say it will likely take several sessions to undo the tricks entirely.
The current state budget was partly balanced on nearly $5 billion in dedicated funds.
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Posted: 06/17/2013 - ARDMORE, Okla. —The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation announced the 2013-2014 recipients of the Sam Noble Scholarships this week, awarding $140,000 in scholarships to 10 southern Oklahoma students.
Posted: 06/13/2013 - DURANT, Okla. -- Southeastern Oklahoma State University has scheduled Camp SE for June 23-24, July 21-22 and July 28-29 on campus.
Updated: 06/10/2013 - (LEONARD,TEXAS) -- Leonard residents are worried that piles of tires sitting at a vacant service shop are attracting mosquitoes and endagering their health
