Texas Senate
Standing Committee
Senate Committee on Finance
Oversees the state budget, revenue, taxation, investment of state funds, agency technology, and performance-based contracting across Texas state government.
Committee Leadership
Committee Composition
Committee Size
14 Members
Republicans
10
Democrats
4
Committee Partisan Split
10R – 4D
Committee Membership
Most Recent Session Activity
Metrics reflect activity during the most recent legislative session.
Legislation Referred
214
Legislation Voted Out
68
Overall Efficiency
31.78%
Committee Meetings
30
Interim Charges
- Further Property Tax Cuts: The Homestead Exemption has proven overwhelmingly popular with voters. It has eliminated school property taxes for the average senior and reduced school taxes in half for those under 65. Study and report on the effect of the continued increasing of the Homestead Exemption. Assess the impact of reducing the senior homestead exemption from 65 to 55 years of age. This change would freeze home values 10 years sooner for over 3 million homeowners, saving 55 plus homeowners thousands of additional dollars.
- Examining Crime Victims’ Compensation and Assistance Funds: Study the administration, funding sources, and distribution of state victims’ assistance and the Crime Victims’ Compensation Fund. Examine eligibility criteria, allocation processes, and distribution methods to victims, service providers, and related programs. Make recommendations to improve these programs in fulfilling their statutory purposes.
- Preventing Fraud, Waste, and Abuse: Review state agencies’ strategies to detect and mitigate fraud, waste, and abuse. Quantify the fiscal impact of financial impropriety on the state budget. Identify high-risk areas such as entitlement programs, contracted services, and technology contracts. Assess prevention and recovery efforts, including data analytics, reporting mechanisms, financial recoveries, and prosecutions. Make recommendations to strengthen oversight and better protect public funds.
- Data Center Investment and State Fiscal Effects: Since the passage of House Bill 1223, 83rd Legislature, in 2013, the state cost of providing a sales tax exemption to qualifying data centers has grown from an estimated $14.6 million for the 2014-15 biennium to a projected $3.3 billion for the 2028-29 biennium. Study the cost and consequences of the sales tax exemption provided to data centers under Tax Code Sections 151.359 and 151.3595. Make recommendations providing safeguards to ensure that Texans benefit from data center investment.
- Higher Education Transparency: Examine the current financial reporting and disclosure practices of public institutions of higher education. Evaluate the adequacy of existing transparency standards regarding the use of state appropriations, tuition revenue, and designated funds. Assess the frequency and scope of state audits and study the feasibility of requiring more frequent, comprehensive audits to ensure fiscal accountability. Make recommendations to strengthen reporting requirements, increase public access to institutional financial data, and provide greater oversight to ensure the efficient and transparent use of taxpayer and student funds.
- Rural Fire Protection Funding: Monitor the implementation of appropriations provided by the 89th Legislature for the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. Examine the distribution of grants for firefighting equipment, training, and protective clothing. Evaluate the impact of the increased funding on reducing the grant application backlog and examine whether the allocation of funds to high-risk wildfire areas is effectively enhancing community safety. Make recommendations for any legislation needed to improve, enhance, or complete the delivery of these critical resources to rural fire departments.
- Evaluating Transportation Resources: Study current transportation funding from all sources and the long-term needs of Texas drivers. Assess the implementation of funding appropriated by the 89th Legislature and make recommendations to ensure the effective and efficient use of transportation funding.
Committee Jurisdiction
The Texas Senate Finance Committee is a powerful body responsible for overseeing the state’s budget and financial operations. Its jurisdiction covers a broad range of areas, including:
- State Budget: The committee is responsible for drafting the state budget, which includes reviewing and making recommendations on all appropriations and expenditures. This involves analyzing financial needs across various sectors, including education, health and human services, and public safety.
- Revenue and Taxation: The committee examines issues related to state revenue, including taxes and other sources of income. It makes recommendations on tax policies and assesses their impact on the state’s financial health.
- Investment of State Funds: The committee reviews investment strategies for state funds managed by entities such as the Teacher Retirement System and the Permanent School Fund. It aims to maximize investment returns while ensuring the prudent management of these funds.
- Agency Technology: The committee assesses technology-related purchases and upgrades within state agencies to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and eliminate duplication.
- Performance-Based Contracting: It reviews the use of performance-based contracting in state agencies, particularly in health and human services, to ensure effective use of state resources and improved service delivery.
Committee Contact Information
Capitol Location
Capitol Extension, E1.038
Phone Number
(512) 463-0370
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