The bill, H.B. No. 188, proposes amendments to the allocation of constitutional transfers of money to various funds, specifically focusing on the Texas severance tax revenue and oil and natural gas (Texas STRONG) defense fund. Key changes include the reallocation of funds previously designated for the Economic Stabilization Fund and the State Highway Fund to now include the Texas STRONG defense fund. The bill also establishes a grant program funded by the Texas STRONG defense fund, which aims to address the impacts of significant oil and gas production in Texas, providing financial assistance to qualifying counties and organizations.

Additionally, the bill modifies the expiration dates for certain provisions related to the allocation of funds, extending them to December 31, 2036. It specifies that the money in the Texas STRONG defense fund can be appropriated for various purposes, including grants for first responders and economic development needs in qualifying counties. The bill will take effect on September 1, 2027, contingent upon the approval of a related constitutional amendment by voters. If the amendment is not approved, the bill will have no effect.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 316.092, Government Code 316.093, Health and Safety Code 386.250 (Health and Safety Code 386, Government Code 316)