The Comptroller of Public Accounts proposes the repeal of §5.22, concerning incorporation by reference: "State of Texas Travel Allowance Guide." The existing §5.22 is being repealed so that the content can be updated in a new §5.22 to simplify administration and allow for the implementation of electronic tools that support travel expense reimbursement for state agencies, employees, and other persons. The travel guide has been incorporated by reference as a rule under §5.22 and therefore the guide could not be updated without amending the rule. Much of the travel guide consists of guidelines, examples, illustrations, general discussions, restatements of provisions of Government Code, Chapter 660, and the General Appropriations Act. Because they have been incorporated by reference, any change to the guidelines, examples, or illustrations that may be useful, require the agency to initiate a formal rulemaking process to incorporate the change. The new rule would allow the comptroller to update or add to examples and guidelines without having to formally amend the rule every time updates are needed. These updates ensure that the most current examples and information available to assist agencies with travel expense reimbursement are provided.

John Heleman, Chief Revenue Estimator, has determined that for the first five-year period the rule will be in effect, there will be no significant revenue impact on the state or units of local government.

Mr. Heleman also has determined that the proposed repeal would benefit the public by clarifying travel provisions for government agencies and their employees. The proposed repeal would have no fiscal impact on small businesses. There is no significant anticipated economic cost to individuals who are required to comply with the proposed rule.

Comments on the proposed repeal may be submitted to Joani Bishop, Manager, Claims Division, P.O. Box 13528, Capitol Station, Austin, Texas 78711.

The repeal is proposed under Government Code, §660.021, which provides the comptroller with the authority to adopt rules for the effective and efficient administration of the travel provisions of the Government Code and the General Appropriations Act.

The proposed repeal implements Government Code, §660.021 and §660.043.