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Bill would require searchable state database of local government bond obligations, proponents say
Summary
House Bill 3526 would require a searchable database at the Bond Review Board tracking local bond issuances, repayments and minimum debt-service figures; proponents said the tool would improve transparency for voters and media.
The committee considered House Bill 3526, a measure described by Senator West as requiring searchable, centralized disclosure of local government bond obligations and repayment information.
Sponsor testimony said the bill would require local governments to provide pre-election and post-election bond data to the Bond Review Board and establish an annual local report and biennial repayment report so lawmakers and the public have timely information. Senator West described the goal as making debt and repayment information available before legislative sessions.
Witnesses supporting the bill included Carl Walker of the Texas Taxpayers and Research Association and James Quintero of the Texas Public Policy Foundation. Walker said inclusion of minimum debt-service figures would help taxpayers and media evaluate how debt affects property-tax rates. Quintero noted the large principal amounts that have appeared on recent ballots — tens of billions across cycles — and said a centralized database would help voters and reporters evaluate bond measures and interest costs.
Proponents said the Bond Review Board is the appropriate place to host the data. No opponents testified at the hearing. The committee closed public testimony and left House Bill 3526 pending subject to call.
