89th Legislature

SB 2828

Principle Criteria
Free Enterprise
Property Rights
Personal Responsibility
Limited Government
Individual Liberty
Digest
SB 2828 proposes the creation and operation of science park districts in certain counties with populations of 800,000 or more or those adjacent to such counties. These districts would be established to promote scientific research, technological innovation, workforce development, and commercial expansion. The bill outlines the process for creating a district, requiring a petition from landowners of at least 1,000 contiguous acres and approval by the Texas Economic Development and Tourism Office. A temporary board, appointed by state officials, would oversee initial planning, project approvals, and resource allocations before transitioning to an elected board. The districts would have the authority to engage in infrastructure development, education and training programs, partnerships with research institutions and private companies, and initiatives supporting business growth. They would be eligible for inclusion in tax increment reinvestment zones and tax abatement reinvestment zones. SB 2828 grants the districts financial powers, including imposing assessments, collecting taxes (with voter approval), issuing bonds, and securing funding through grants and donations. It prohibits the use of eminent domain and mandates annual reporting, public meetings, and audits for transparency.
Author
Tan Parker