What constitutional requirement limits the growth of legislative spending in Texas?

The requirement for a balanced budget is a critical aspect of Texas's legislative process that directly influences the growth of spending. This constitutional provision mandates that state spending cannot exceed the state’s estimated revenue for that period. Consequently, lawmakers must develop and implement a budget that is in alignment with available funds, preventing unchecked growth in expenditures.

This requirement ensures fiscal discipline and accountability, compelling legislators to prioritize spending based on actual revenue projections. As a result, it mitigates the risk of incurring debt to fund programs and services. Since Texas does not allow deficit spending, the balanced budget requirement firmly regulates the financial planning and fiscal policies of the state, limiting the legislative body's ability to expand spending beyond what is financially viable.

In this environment, legislators must often make tough decisions regarding which programs to fund and at what levels, thereby maintaining a level of restraint on overall spending growth. This setup reinforces the importance of sound financial management within the Texas legislature.