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 Propositions Index |
Previous Proposition
Proposition 12The ballot will read: The constitutional amendment providing for the issuance of general obligation bonds by the Texas Transportation Commission in an amount not to exceed $5 billion to provide funding for highway improvement projects.Background: Proposition 12 would allow the Legislature to authorize the Texas Transportation Commission to issue up to $5 billion in bonds for highway improvement projects. The voters first authorized the state’s use of bonds to build non-toll highways in 2001. Prior to that, all state non-toll roads were built and maintained on a pay-as-you-go basis, rather than by borrowing. Since bonds were first authorized in 2001, more than $5 billion in bonds have been issued for highway construction. For: Proposition 12 would help the state finance needed transportation projects over the next two years. The state’s growing population means more wear and tear on roads, greater traffic congestion, clogged border crossings, deficient rural roads, and unsafe bridges. Texas never will catch up with demand if it does not use bonds to fund projects. These bonds are especially important because of the two-year moratorium placed on some new toll projects. Against: Borrowing money increases costs and passes those costs along to future taxpayers and legislatures. The state has historically funded transportation with available funds and should continue to do so. The state should not spend money on interest payments that could be used for other urgent state needs. that would occur if this proposition passes, CLICK HERE. Words to be added to the Constitution will be underlined. Words to be removed, if any, will be [ For a more detailed analysis of this proposition For the full 43-page House Research Organization report |