Texas House Bill HB1162

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to a sales and use tax exemption for certain disabled veterans and surviving spouses of certain disabled veterans.

Impact

The proposed adjustments to the Tax Code are significant as they amend Subchapter H, Chapter 151 to incorporate exemptions that directly benefit disabled veterans and their families. By introducing the mechanism of the registration number, the legislation seeks to streamline the process through which eligible individuals can claim these tax benefits. The bill also ensures that eligibility is clearly defined and that there is a method for verifying the status of registered persons, which could help reduce fraud while providing support to those deserving.

Summary

House Bill 1162 seeks to amend existing tax laws in Texas by establishing a sales and use tax exemption specifically for certain disabled veterans and their surviving spouses. This bill allows eligible veterans who are 100% disabled due to military service to apply for a registration number that can be used to claim tax exemptions on purchases. Surviving spouses of qualifying veterans, provided they are not remarried, can also benefit from these exemptions under specific conditions. This change in the law expresses a recognition of the sacrifices made by veterans and aims to alleviate their financial burden.

Sentiment

The sentiment towards HB 1162 appears to be supportive, particularly from legislative members who advocate for veteran affairs. Many see this as a much-needed acknowledgment of the valor and challenges faced by veterans, emphasizing the state's responsibility to support those who have sacrificed for their country. Nonetheless, there might be concern about administrative implications, such as verifying eligibility or managing the implementation of such exemptions, which could be points of contention among different stakeholders.

Contention

While the bill has significant support, it does present potential concerns regarding its implementation and the administrative burden it may place on the Texas Comptroller's office. Critics might argue that while the intention behind the bill is noble, executing it in a way that effectively identifies eligible individuals without introducing bureaucratic hurdles will be crucial. The need for a renewal of registration every four years might also be viewed as a cumbersome requirement for some veterans.