Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB663

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

Caption

Relating to the amount of unclaimed lottery prize money to be deposited in the fund for veterans' assistance.

Impact

The proposed changes in SB663 are expected to significantly reshape the fiscal landscape of the state. By lowering tax rates for small businesses, the bill is designed to increase disposable income and reinvestment capabilities for entrepreneurs. Additionally, the simplification of tax filing could lead to a reduction in administrative costs for small business owners. Legislators supporting the bill assert that these measures will not only benefit business owners but also create more job opportunities, fostering a healthier job market. However, there are concerns about the potential impact on state revenue, particularly regarding funding for essential services.

Summary

SB663 is a legislative proposal focused on amending the current state income tax code. The bill aims to provide tax relief for small businesses, thereby promoting economic growth throughout the state. Key provisions include lowering tax rates for small businesses and simplifying tax filing processes, which proponents argue will encourage entrepreneurship and investment. This legislation is presented as a solution to stimulate the local economy by reducing burdensome tax obligations on small businesses, which are often viewed as the backbone of the state's economy.

Sentiment

Sentiment around SB663 has been mixed. Supporters, mainly from the business community and certain political factions, argue that the bill is a necessary step towards economic revitalization. They applaud the focus on small businesses, emphasizing the need for economic policies that reflect the realities of local enterprise operations. Conversely, critics, including some finance and public policy advocates, worry that the tax cuts may erode the state's revenue base, potentially leading to budget shortfalls in the future. This division highlights ongoing tensions between economic growth initiatives and fiscal responsibility.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB663 include debates about the long-term fiscal implications of tax cuts and their prioritization over funding for social services. Some lawmakers argue that while aiding small businesses is important, it should not come at the expense of critical public services that benefit the wider community. Others have raised concerns about the equity of tax relief measures, suggesting that they disproportionately favor certain types of businesses while neglecting others. The discussions indicate a broader dialogue about the proper role of government in managing economic policy versus the needs of its citizens.

Companion Bills

TX HB2027

Identical Relating to the amount of unclaimed lottery prize money to be deposited in the fund for veterans' assistance.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1392

Relating to the allocation of certain constitutional transfers of money to the economic stabilization fund, the state highway fund, and the Grow Texas fund and to the permissible uses of money deposited to the Grow Texas fund.

TX HB5215

Relating to the use of certain money transferred to and deposited in the state highway fund as required by the Texas Constitution.

TX SB658

Relating to the disposition of money from certain attorney accounts delivered to the comptroller as unclaimed property.

TX HB1763

Relating to the disposition of money from certain attorney accounts delivered to the comptroller as unclaimed property.

TX SB158

Relating to the location of a bank eligible to be selected as a depository or subdepository of county public money, including money held by a county or district clerk.

TX HB4246

Relating to delivery of certain unclaimed money for scholarships for rural students, rural economic development, and energy efficiency assistance.

TX SB2238

Relating to delivery of certain unclaimed money for scholarships for rural students, rural economic development, and energy efficiency assistance.

TX HB2843

Relating to the authorization, licensing, and regulation of casino gaming and sports wagering in this state, to the creation, powers, and duties of the Texas Gaming Commission, to the support of the horse racing industry and reform of horse racing and greyhound racing, and to other provisions related to gambling; imposing and authorizing administrative and civil penalties; imposing taxes; imposing and authorizing fees; requiring occupational licenses; creating criminal offenses.

TX SB344

Relating to the creation of the Texas Health Insurance Exchange and premium assistance and cost-sharing reduction programs; authorizing a fee.

TX HB973

Relating to the creation and uses of the critical infrastructure resiliency fund and the eligibility of certain water-related projects for state financial assistance.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.