HB 3816 would require regulatory impact analysis (RIA) of all environmental rules. By whatever label—cost-benefit analysis, cost-effectiveness, impact analysis—regulatory analysis is a widely accepted step in the rule-making process.Unlike most other states, Texas has lacked a mechanism to estimate the regulatory costs imposed on the private sector and the general public. HB 3816 would require a simple cost-benefit analysis of proposed environmental rules to provide such transparency for all Texans. Such analysis should help in legislative oversight of agency implementation of state law.
Local Government
Reinvigorating Federalism and Fiscal Discipline in Texas: Establishing the Office of State Sovereignty
Texas governments received $84.3 billion in federal funding in 2023, raising concerns over financial dependency and regulatory consequences. Creating an Office of State Sovereignty to monitor the application, receipt, and conditions of this aid could mitigate fiscal risk and improve transparency. Key points: Texas lacks a centralized system to oversee federal grants potentially flowing to...
September 9, 2026