Posted by: CharlieB on May 10, 2005 at 13:16:40:
Go to the link for more contact info.
The usual "bait and switch" with your fees!
Strayhorn Says Proceeds From Freshwater Fish Stamp in Danger of Being Misused
Urges Legislature to Keep Promise to Fishing Enthusiasts
(Austin)--Texas Comptroller Carole Keeton Strayhorn today said proceeds from a fee fishing enthusiasts are now paying could be redirected by the Legislature and urged members to keep their promise to Texas taxpayers.
"Texas sportsmen and women were promised that the income from the freshwater fish stamp would pay for fish hatcheries and habitats," Strayhorn wrote. "And now those funds are in danger of being taken away."
Under current law, the $5 freshwater fish stamp is required through 2014 to fish in freshwater in Texas.
But the current House and Senate versions of Senate Bill 1 would supersede the original dedication of this fee to fish hatcheries and the purchase of game fish. In effect, the dollars originally earmarked for hatcheries would be used to support other programs.
Because the dedication would be stripped away and replaced with either revenue bonds or General Obligation Bonds, Strayhorn said the change in policy will come at a significant cost to the state.
"The cost to Texas taxpayers would be approximately an additional $3 million to $9.1 million," Strayhorn said. "If interest rates rise, the cost of the bonds would increase.
"I realized that fishing enthusiasts went along with the stamp tax because they were promised a new hatchery and maintenance on existing hatcheries, guaranteeing Texas waterways would have abundant fish populations for generations to come," Strayhorn said. "They have a right to be upset that the funds they have paid to fish will not be used for their intended and promised purposes."