Texas Senate Bill SB128

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Filed: 11/10/08

Caption

Relating to a franchise tax credit for certain investments made in relation to sustainable commercial building projects.

Impact

The introduction of SB128 is expected to stimulate investments in sustainable building initiatives across the state. By offering a credit amounting to 35% of specific costs associated with sustainable projects—up to a maximum of $20,000—the bill encourages entities to pursue environmentally-friendly renovations and constructions. This could lead to increased economic activity in construction and related industries, while also promoting environmentally sustainable practices in building operations.

Summary

SB128 provides a franchise tax credit for taxable entities engaging in sustainable commercial building projects within Texas. The bill specifically defines what constitutes a commercial building project, encompassing new constructions as well as renovations that significantly change the building's square footage or functionality. A hallmark of these projects must be their certification under recognized high-performance building standards, ensuring they contribute to energy efficiency and improved indoor air quality.

Contention

While SB128 has the potential to garner broad support due to its positive implications for sustainability and economic growth, concerns have been raised regarding the eligibility certifications and the bureaucracy surrounding the verification of high-performance standards. Critics may argue that the certification process could be burdensome, potentially deterring smaller entities from applying for benefits. There may also be discussions on the specifics of the high-performance standards and how they are determined, which could influence the bill's reception among various stakeholders.