Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB830

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the use of customs brokers to obtain a refund of sales and use taxes and to the retention of the $1 million total revenue exemption for the franchise tax.

Impact

If enacted, SB830 would simplify the tax exemption claiming process for companies exporting tangible personal property. By mandating that proof of export is required to be shown only by specific documentation issued by licensed carriers, the bill seeks to create more efficiency in tax refund claims. This change would theoretically eliminate potential bureaucratic delays that exporters face when trying to establish their eligibility for tax refunds, thereby fostering a more business-friendly environment in Texas.

Summary

Senate Bill 830 focuses primarily on the use of customs brokers in relation to obtaining refunds of sales and use taxes, as well as the retention of the $1 million total revenue exemption regarding the franchise tax. The bill proposes amendments to the Tax Code to streamline the process related to customs documentation needed for tax exemptions on exported tangible goods. This includes specifying that proof of export should solely be demonstrated via a bill of lading, while also repealing several existing sections that may complicate the process.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB830 appears to be largely positive among business stakeholders, particularly those engaged in international trade. Proponents argue that the proposed amendments will eliminate unnecessary regulatory burdens and foster smoother operations for businesses focusing on exports. However, there may be concerns from other perspectives, such as potential efficacy or risks associated with reduced checks on the customs processes. This tension reflects a broader conversation about balancing regulatory oversight with the need for economic expediency.

Contention

While most discussions seem to favor the bill's intent, some points of contention might arise regarding the potential for fraud or misuse of the streamlined processes introduced by SB830. Critics may express concern that easing requirements for tax exemptions could lead to entities abusing the system, resulting in losses for the state in tax revenues. Additionally, repealing previous sections of the Tax Code could lead to gaps in enforcement or oversight, raising concerns among regulatory bodies regarding the integrity of customs and tax processes.

Companion Bills

TX HB264

Identical Relating to the use of customs brokers to obtain a refund of sales and use taxes and to the retention of the $1 million total revenue exemption for the franchise tax.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4079

Relating to the requirements for issuance of export documentation by a customs broker for purposes of sales and use taxes.

TX SB1061

Relating to the computation of and total revenue exemption for the franchise tax.

TX HB3

Relating to the amount of the total revenue exemption for the franchise tax and the exclusion of certain taxable entities from the requirement to file a franchise tax report.

TX SB3

Relating to the amount of the total revenue exemption for the franchise tax and the exclusion of certain taxable entities from the requirement to file a franchise tax report.

TX SB5

Relating to an exemption from ad valorem taxation of a portion of the appraised value of tangible personal property that is held or used for the production of income and a franchise tax credit for the payment of certain related ad valorem taxes.

TX SB1

Relating to providing property tax relief through the public school finance system, exemptions, and limitations on taxes and providing franchise tax relief.

TX SB26

Relating to providing property tax relief through the public school finance system, exemptions, and limitations on taxes and providing franchise tax relief.

TX HB4371

Relating to an exemption from sales and use taxes for certain items used by or for certain life sciences campuses.

TX HB447

Relating to sales and use taxes imposed on certain assault weapons; imposing taxes.

TX HB3998

Relating to the use of certain revenue derived from state sales and use taxes to provide grants to incentivize the recycling of certain electronics.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.