Relating to the imposition of a tax on the gross receipts from admissions fees charged by sexually oriented businesses.
Impact
The revenues collected from this tax are allocated in a manner that supports essential state programs. According to the bill, one-fourth of the total net revenue is designated for the foundation school fund, bolstering educational financing in Texas. Furthermore, the bill mandates that the first $25 million of revenue allocated to the general revenue fund during any state fiscal biennium will be directed to the sexual assault program fund. This allocation highlights a commitment to addressing sexual violence prevention and support initiatives.
Summary
House Bill 982 proposes an admissions tax specifically targeting sexually oriented businesses in Texas. This bill introduces a tax rate of 10 percent on the gross receipts received from admissions fees charged by these businesses. The intent behind this legislation is to generate state revenue while also establishing a regulatory framework for the financial operations of such establishments. The bill articulates defined parameters for what constitutes admissions fees and outlines compliance expectations for businesses subject to this tax.
Contention
While the bill aims to enhance state revenue and support critical programs, it may provoke discussions regarding the implications for sexually oriented businesses and their operational costs. Critics may argue that imposing additional taxation could burden these businesses financially, particularly in an industry often characterized by narrow profit margins. The balance between generating necessary state income and the economic viability of these establishments will likely be a point of contention in legislative discussions surrounding this bill.
Relating to the amount of the fee imposed on certain sexually oriented businesses that is allocated to the sexual assault program fund and the allocation of certain other revenue to that fund; increasing the amount of a fee.
Relating to the collection, remittance, and administration of the tax on gross rental receipts on motor vehicles rented through a marketplace rental provider; imposing a penalty.
Relating to the regulation of money services businesses; creating a criminal offense; creating administrative penalties; authorizing the imposition of a fee.