BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 5400

By: Morales, Eddie

Transportation

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The Presidio International Bridge has needed improvements and expansion for years, as the area experiences heavy international commerce and a high volume of border crossings. Several international land ports of entry in Texas border towns are controlled and financed, at least partially, by their respective port authorities. Creating an international port authority within Presidio County could provide much needed resources to further develop, expand, and maintain the Presidio International Bridge. H.B. 5400 seeks to improve the Presidio port of entry and encourage more international trade by providing for the creation of the Presidio International Port Authority District, including the authority to issue obligations and impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

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. 5400 amends the Special District Local Laws Code to create the Presidio International Port Authority District to provide for certain improvements, projects, and services for public use and benefit, such as regional mobility authority services, international border facilities, rail facilities, transportation facilities, and public safety services. The bill provides for, among other provisions, the annexation and exclusion of district land, the dissolution of the district, and the disbursement and transfer of district money. The district's powers and duties include, subject to certain requirements, the authority to establish, operate, and maintain a foreign trade zone, the authority to issue obligations, and the authority to impose assessments, certain fees, property taxes, and operation and maintenance taxes. The bill prohibits the district from exercising the power of eminent domain.

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2023.