LEGISLATIVE BUDGET BOARD

Austin, Texas

FISCAL NOTE, 79TH LEGISLATIVE REGULAR SESSION

February 28, 2005

TO:	Honorable Rodney Ellis, Chair, Senate Committee on Government Organization
FROM:	John S. O'Brien, Deputy Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:	SB233 by Ellis (Relating to state antiquities.), As Introduced

No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.

The bill would amend Section 191 of the Natural Resources Code.  The bill would reduce the minimum area perimeters of ground-disturbing projects that would require Texas Historical Commission (THC) notification.  The bill would allow buildings and structures that are eligible for listing in the National Register to be designated State Archeological Landmarks.  It would also require political subdivisions to notify the THC of plans to alter, renovate, or demolish buildings 50 years of age or older and, in limited circumstances, hold public hearings regarding such proposals.  It is anticipated that any additional costs created by this bill would be able to be absorbed by the agency's existing programs.

The bill would take effect September 1, 2005.

Local Government Impact

A local government entity would incur costs related to requirements that a political subdivision notify the Texas Historical Commission and to hold a public hearing, if requested, before beginning an alteration, renovation, or demolition of certain buildings.  However, it is anticipated that those costs would not be significant.

Source Agencies:

808 Historical Commission

LBB Staff:

JOB, SR, NR, DLBa