BILL ANALYSIS
Senate Research Center S.J.R. 34
AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT
The purpose of S.J.R. 34 is to propose a constitutional amendment to allow library districts to impose property taxes for the support of a library district. Texas law currently provides for the establishment of library districts in order to facilitate the creation and financing of public libraries in rural and suburban areas of the state.
Large municipal public library systems such as the one operated by the City of San Antonio face significant challenges in adequately serving the public's needs. Currently, San Antonio's taxpayers bear about 90 percent of the cost of operating and maintaining its public library system. The city also bears the cost of new facilities as it seeks to meet ever-growing demands on the system.
S.J.R. 34 proposes a constitutional amendment that would allow a library district to hold an election to impose ad valorem taxes for support of the district.
RULEMAKING AUTHORITY
SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS
SECTION 1. Amends Article III, Texas Constitution, by adding Section 48-d, as follows:
Sec. 48-d. Authorizes the legislature to authorize library districts to impose an ad valorem tax on property located in the district at a rate not to exceed 15 cents per $100 valuation. Prohibits a tax from being imposed under this section unless a majority of the library district voters voting at an election held for that purpose approve the tax.
SECTION 2. Requires this proposed constitutional amendment to be submitted to the voters at an election to be held November 6, 2007. Sets forth the required language for the ballot.