Proposing a constitutional amendment to require a two-thirds vote of the legislature to enact and submit to the voters a law imposing an income tax or increasing that tax.
Impact
The impact of HJR78, if passed, would significantly affect the state's revenue generation mechanisms. By mandating a two-thirds legislative vote and a statewide referendum, it could prevent the implementation of an income tax without overwhelming legislative and public support. This measure is aimed at preserving Texas' tax structure, which currently relies more heavily on property and sales taxes rather than income taxes. Should this amendment be enacted, it would further entrench the state's no-income-tax policy.
Summary
HJR78 proposes a constitutional amendment in Texas that would require a two-thirds majority vote in the legislature to enact and submit to voters any law imposing or increasing an income tax. This measure seeks to amend Section 24 of Article VIII of the Texas Constitution, reinforcing the requirement for substantial legislative consensus and public approval before any new taxes can be implemented. The bill aims to challenge any future efforts to impose income taxes, which have historically been a contentious topic in Texas governance.
Contention
The debate surrounding HJR78 raises notable points of contention among lawmakers and stakeholders. Supporters argue that the amendment would protect taxpayers from sudden tax increases and maintain a favorable business environment. They highlight the importance of requiring broad agreement, given the potential economic implications of introducing an income tax. Conversely, opponents may argue that such stringent requirements could inhibit necessary fiscal reforms and exacerbate funding challenges for state services, especially in times of economic downturn. Discussions may also delve into the adequacy and fairness of Texas' current taxation system in funding public education and infrastructure.
Proposing a constitutional amendment prohibiting the enactment of a law imposing an occupation tax on certain entities that enter into transactions conveying securities or imposing a tax on certain securities transactions.
Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to provide for exceptions to the requirement that a home equity loan be closed only at the office of the lender, an attorney at law, or a title company.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to remove the requirement that a home equity loan be closed only at the office of the lender, an attorney at law, or a title company.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to require that future constitutional amendments become effective only if approved by a majority of the voters in at least three-fourths of the counties of the state.
Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing the Texas Redistricting Commission to redistrict the Texas Legislature and Texas congressional districts and revising procedures for redistricting.
Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the governor to call the legislature into special session on petition of at least two-thirds of the members of each house of the legislature.
Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing the Texas Redistricting Commission to redistrict the Texas Legislature and Texas congressional districts and revising procedures for redistricting.
Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing a statewide referendum allowing voters to indicate a preference for observing year-round standard time or daylight saving time and authorizing the legislature to enact legislation that gives effect to the preferred option.