H.B. No. 168 amends the Local Government Code to modify the regulations surrounding the issuance of certificates of obligation by municipalities and counties. Key changes include redefining the term "issuer" to include only municipalities and counties, while removing references to hospital districts. The definition of "public work" is expanded to include additional types of public improvements, such as first responder training facilities, and the bill specifies that certificates may be issued for the demolition of dangerous structures, removing the previous provision for the restoration of historic structures.

Additionally, the bill reduces the maximum maturity period for certificates from 40 years to 30 years and lowers the percentage of registered voters required to protest the issuance of certificates from five percent to two percent. It also repeals Section 271.046 of the Local Government Code, which previously governed certain aspects of certificate issuance. The changes will apply only to certificates issued after the effective date of the Act, which is set to take effect 91 days after the end of the legislative session.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Local Government Code 271.043, Local Government Code 271.0461, Local Government Code 271.047, Local Government Code 271.049, Local Government Code 271.0525, Local Government Code 271.046 (Local Government Code 271)