BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 2769

By: Rodriguez, Eddie

Energy Resources

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Interested parties note that churches and other community-based organizations are important partners with the state in serving as a safety net for many vulnerable Texans but are dependent on the charitable giving of their members and foundations who generally intend that their donations go to the mission of the organization and not facility upgrades. The parties further note that utility bills are one of the largest line items in such an organization's budget, as these organizations often operate out of large, old, and energy inefficient buildings. The parties contend that energy efficiency measures for these buildings could lower utility bills and provide more money for other operations. However, such organizations often lack the capital required to make energy efficient investments. 

Several years ago, legislation was passed to promote the use of energy efficiency measures and renewable energy technology by churches and community-based organizations through the creation of a pilot program that provides certain loans for such measures and technology. The pilot program was intended to offer energy efficiency incentives to these organizations in recognition of the benefits the organizations provide to the communities they serve. H.B. 2769 seeks to allow further opportunity for churches and community-based organizations to be able to finance energy efficiency measures and renewable energy technology.

CRIMINAL JUSTICE IMPACT

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly create a criminal offense, increase the punishment for an existing criminal offense or category of offenses, or change the eligibility of a person for community supervision, parole, or mandatory supervision.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.

ANALYSIS   

H.B. 2769 amends the Government Code to extend from December 31, 2015, to December 31, 2017, the expiration date of the pilot program under the loanstar revolving loan program that provides loans to houses of worship and community-based organizations to finance the implementation of energy efficiency measures and renewable energy technology in buildings owned or operated by those organizations.

EFFECTIVE DATE

On passage, or, if the bill does not receive the necessary vote, September 1, 2015.