SRC-JRN S.B. 501 75(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research CenterS.B. 501 By: Zaffirini Intergovernmental Relations 2-28-97 As Filed DIGEST Currently, there is no state law that authorizes assistance and technical support to local governments by the comptroller of public accounts. Federal funding could be lost because local governments may have limited expertise and resources to claim the funds. This bill authorizes the comptroller to provide assistance and technical support to local governments seeking federal governmental funds. PURPOSE As proposed, S.B. 501 authorizes the comptroller of public accounts to provide assistance and technical support to local governments seeking federal governmental funds. RULEMAKING AUTHORITY This bill does not grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency. SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS SECTION 1. Amends Chapter 403B, Government Code, by adding Section 403.026, as follows: Sec. 403.026. ASSISTANCE TO LOCAL GOVERNMENT IN OBTAINING FEDERAL AID. Authorizes the comptroller of public accounts to provide assistance and technical support to a political subdivision in obtaining maximum funding from the federal government. Authorizes the comptroller to charge a fee not to exceed a certain amount to the political subdivision to cover the costs of providing assistance under this section. SECTION 2. Emergency clause. Effective date: upon passage.