City of San Antonio - File #: 21-2590

• File #: 21-2590
• Type: Staff Briefing - With Ordinance
• In control: City Council A Session
• On agenda: 4/8/2021
• Posting Language: Briefing and possible action on legislation filed in the 87th Regular State Legislative Session, an update on the status of proposed legislation and its impact on the City of San Antonio, and an update on the status of potential federal stimulus funding made available through the American Rescue Plan. [Jeff Coyle, Assistant City Manager]

DEPARTMENT: Government & Public Affairs

DEPARTMENT HEAD: Jeff Coyle

COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED: City Wide

SUBJECT:

87^th State Legislative Session and American Rescue Plan Update

SUMMARY:

Briefing and possible action on legislation filed in the 87^th State Legislative Session. This briefing will provide information and an update on the status of proposed legislation and its potential impact on the City of San Antonio. The briefing will also include an update on the Federal Government’s implementation of the stimulus under the American Rescue Plan signed into law on March 11.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION:

87^th Texas Legislature

The 87^th State Legislative Session began on January 12, 2021. Members of the 87^th Legislature began filing bills last November and filing ended on March 12, 2021. The City’s State Legislative Program provides an overview of the City’s priorities and provides guidance on the City’s legislative activity. This legislative update will focus on legislation that has an impact on the City’s interests.

American Rescue Plan

Earlier this month Congress passed, and the President signed, a $1.9 trillion stimulus bill to continue addressing the COVID-19 pandemic. The American Rescue Plan included direct aid to state and local governments; funds for vaccines, testing, and contact tracing; support to individuals through direct payments, enhanced unemployment benefits, and utility assistance. Since passage of the legislation, federal agencies have been developing guidance for distribution of the assistance. The update will include the latest information released by these agencies.

ISSUE:

87^th Texas Legislature

The legislative issues covered by this update will vary depending on legislative activity in the Texas Senate and House of Representatives.

American Rescue Plan

Funding under the American Rescue Plan will flow through various programs established by the Federal Government. A full understanding of these resources and their method of distribution is necessary for the City of San Antonio.

FISCAL IMPACT:

There is no direct fiscal impact from this item.

RECOMMENDATION:

This item is for briefing purposes and possible action.