SRC-TJG H.B. 3443 78(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center H.B. 3443 By: Pickett (Ogden) Finance 5/20/2003 Engrossed DIGEST AND PURPOSE Due to the current budget shortfall, state agencies and institutions of higher education were asked to prioritize spending based on core functions and essential services. Legislators looked to these priorities in preparation of the budget; however, certain statutory changes are also needed to conform with appropriations levels in the 2004-05 General Appropriations Act. H.B. 3443 authorizes these statutory changes for the business and economic development agencies listed under Article VII of the 2004-05 General Appropriations Act. RULEMAKING AUTHORITY This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency. SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS SECTION 1. Authorizes the amounts required by statute for entities that receive state funds under Article VII of the General Appropriations Act to be reduced or eliminated in order to achieve a balanced budget. SECTION 2. (a) Provides that this section applies to certain state agencies. (b) Authorizes a state agency to which this section applies to reduce expenditures by taking certain actions. SECTION 3. Effective date: upon passage or September 1, 2003.