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.