Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'tax equity'

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TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Obviously, non-profits get tax privileges in our state.
  • Maybe you can get to the bottom of it, but the taxpayer should know once they've paid their taxes.
  • You know, if you look at a city and a county, a lot of that is a little bit of a sales tax.
  • It's property tax.
  • We're all sensitive to the property tax; we're working on that.
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on SB6, which is aimed at facilitating greater liability and addressing the challenges associated with load interconnection. The chair reopened discussions on the bill, engaging with several public testimonies. Among the 27 registered witnesses, many expressed support for the bill, emphasizing its significance in ensuring accurate load visibility and addressing issues in the energy sector. Notably, Lee Bratcher from the Texas Blockchain Council commended the committee's efforts while highlighting concerns related to transmission costs and their potential impact.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • tax exemption.
  • However, in some cities, municipally owned utilities adopt increased rates charged to tax-exempt entities
  • Tax exemptions.
  • That qualify for a sales tax or ad valorem tax exemption that
  • This would ensure that our tax-exempt entities actually get to enjoy the benefit of these exemptions.
Summary: The committee meeting was marked by significant discussions around various bills, especially those related to water quality and public utilities. House Bill 2692 was presented to simplify and clarify the enabling legislation for the San Antonio River Authority, highlighting improvements necessary for effective governance and administration. Additionally, there were discussions on Senate Bill 2497, which mandates public water systems to install filtration systems to ensure safe drinking water in communities facing water quality issues. Witnesses emphasized the financial burden and the need for more flexibility in solutions to address water contamination without imposing heavy costs on small water systems. The conversation underscored the balance between public health and fiscal responsibility, with various solutions proposed to mitigate the risks of water contamination.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations - S/C on Articles VI, VII, & VIII Feb 26th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Appropriations - S/C on Articles VI, VII, & VIII

Transcript Highlights:
  • So these are tax dollars subsidizing private projects, is that right?
  • are being taxed out of their homes every day in the state—to consider more free market alternatives
  • like cutting severance taxes and reducing regulations on all providers?
  • we've already allocated, that's money that we could use for other purposes such as reducing property taxes
  • Including reducing property taxes, right?
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on the public utility sector, with significant attention given to the Texas Energy Fund and its anticipated expansion. Discussions highlighted the funding strategies for public utility programs, with representatives questioning the necessity of further taxpayer investments in projects that have not proven their effectiveness. There was substantial debate over the management of resources and efficiency, particularly emphasizing the regulatory responsibilities of the Public Utility Commission. Member concerns were vocalized around the impact of increased spending on local taxpayers, and whether alternative measures could suffice without additional funding.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Culture, Recreation & Tourism Mar 6th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Culture, Recreation & Tourism Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The amount of dollars that we generate in tax revenue, the amount that comes back to the state in tax
  • This rebate applies to the mixed beverage gross receipts taxes and sales taxes attributable to the sale
  • property tax reforms for our travel insurers and businesses.
  • The state tax credit is the best state tax credit in the
  • Tax credit program.
Summary: During this committee meeting, members discussed several bills, including HB2, HB22, and HB4, focusing on various state issues. Key discussions revolved around the impact of legislation on local communities, with members expressing differing viewpoints on the measures proposed. Witnesses were invited to provide testimonies, highlighting both support and concerns regarding the bills, particularly in terms of economic implications and social justice reform. Overall, the meeting reflected a robust engagement from the members and public, showcasing the complexities of the legislative process.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce Apr 22nd, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...tax receipts while an appeal is pending?
  • our sales taxes: it's both unnecessary and unintentionally punitive.
  • But if it isn't, sales taxes are a key part of our budget.
  • They're one of the three legs of our stool, along with property taxes and utility revenues.
  • And this constituent looked at me and said, "What do I pay taxes for?
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Business and Commerce centered around critical legislation including SB2858, SB324, and several others pertaining to regulatory consistency and enforcement in local governments. Notably, SB2858 was introduced to address the apparent noncompliance of some cities with state laws by empowering the Attorney General to enforce regulations more effectively. The members deliberated on the implications of this bill, with public testimony highlighting the need for stronger measures against local governments that ignore state mandates. Aside from regulatory discussions, SB2610 was well-received as it aimed to provide cybersecurity protections for small to medium-sized businesses, encouraging compliance with industry standards while simultaneously minimizing potential legal repercussions for companies against data breaches. The committee aimed to strike a balance between ensuring business security and avoiding undue burden on smaller enterprises.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Mar 4th, 2025 at 02:00 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Shaheen, relating to the establishment of an education savings account program and insurance premium tax
  • data-time="4950"> HB 642 by Bernal, relating to the limitations of the total amount of ad valorem taxes
  • that a school district may impose on certain residents' homesteads to mitigate substantial school tax
  • HB 670 by B.C., relating to the authority of a taxing unit
  • to authorize and regulate certain matters related to school funding following a substantial school tax
Summary: The committee meeting predominantly focused on a multitude of bills concerning various legislative amendments. Key discussions included the pros and cons of constitutional amendments, such as one by Schofield proposing year-round daylight savings time, and issues around taxation reforms highlighted by various members. The committee engaged in vibrant discussions, inviting public testimonies from both supporters and opponents of several bills, emphasizing the importance of community input in legislative processes. Notably, there were extensive debates on HB720, which pertains to the Ketamine Treatment Grant Program for veterans and first responders, underscoring the significance of mental health legislation. Members expressed their concerns about implementing the program effectively while ensuring adequate funding and oversight.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Legislation reducing the property tax burden on Texans

  • and legislation imposing spending limits on entities authorized to impose property taxes.
  • marker="61" data-time="360">Legislation prohibiting taxpayer-funded lobbying, including the use of tax
  • dollars to hire lobbyists and payment of tax dollars to associations that lobby the legislature.
Summary: The meeting of the 89th Legislature featured discussions primarily centered around several key bills, including SB648 concerning protections against title theft and deed fraud, SB1253 which addresses impact fees for builders incorporating water conservation measures, and SB2878 related to the administration of the judicial department. The session began with a prayer acknowledging the devastating floods that affected Central Texas, followed by a message from Governor Greg Abbott calling for the special session. Members engaged in robust debates on the importance of the proposed legislations, particularly focusing on community recovery efforts following recent natural disasters. Public testimonies were elicited, highlighting the varied perspectives on the bills under discussion and underscoring the significance of legislative action in response to constituents' needs.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session May 6th, 2025 at 10:05 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • The sport of golf drives $14.2 billion in total economic impact, $1.3 billion in tax revenue for Texans
  • number 138 by Alders proposing a constitutional amendment prohibiting the imposition of a car urban tax
  • Lauterbach: On the amendment, members, there was confusion yesterday about amending pre-existing hot tax
  • Taxes! Is there anything in your bill to cut taxes in the state of Texas? Absolutely.
  • rate that exceeds the district's voter approval tax rate, heard of the Committee on Ways and Means.
Bills: HB1535, HB123, HB111, HB180, HB342, HB1027, HB1178, HB610, HB1277, HB1615, HB1620, HB5342, HB4885, HB4751, HB4689, HB4530, HB4488, HB2149, HB2041, HB2071, HB1813, HB2282, HB2248, HB2243, HB2522, HB2310, HB2513, HB2300, HB1902, HB3719, HB4284, HB4327, HB3743, HB3778, HB3801, HB5153, HB5147, HB4877, HB4850, HB3158, HB3261, HB3005, HB3033, HB3138, HB3099, HB2849, HB2967, HB3488, HB3477, HB3466, HB3396, HB3469, HB2594, HB2776, HB2564, HB2298, HB5331, HB5646, HB5247, HB5323, HB2015, HB4384, HB3896, HB4014, HB3627, HB3594, HB2524, HB510, HB561, HB5111, HB5446, HB1181, HB3963, HB2785, HB1661, HB2460, HB24, HJR138, HB3800, HB42, HB129, HB677, HB668, HB2128, HB2038, HB2316, HB3686, HB2563, HB1160, HB3883, HB2788, HB2663, HB3305, HB3474, HB1105, HB3490, HB3597, HB1295, HB3512, HB3783, HB2017, HB3010, HB3112, HB4215, HB3223, HB3464, HB3120, HB4214, HB4081, HB4783, HB4063, HB2783, HB5085, HB2510, HB3426, HB4361, HB1169, HB2516, HB4700, HB3560, HB3860, HB3146, HB184, HB198, HB247, HB367, HB449, HB1778, HB514, HB632, HB2582, HB766, HB2715, HB2712, HB3069, HB3505, HB1269, HB4224, HB5032, HB2240, HB5180, HB3348, HB4668, HB4665, HB3395, HB3157, HB4395, HB4325, HB4386, HB4273, HB2760, HB2820, HB1828, HB1579, SB2349, SB1268, SB610, SB1577, SB1369, SB2032, SB2034, SB1057, SB1044, SB922, SB1759, SB1143, SB1506, SB1403, SB2361, SB870, SB372, SB72, SB1583, SB2314, SB1267, SB1273, SB765, SB552, HB2145, HJR112, HB1804, HJR110, HB1194, HB1531, HB5008, HB3421, SCR27, HB5398, HB1407, HB426, HB1535, HB123, HB1773, HB1871, HB2035, HB2448, HB2492, HB1411, HB4753, HB4666, HB4529, HB1499, HB1610, HB2028, HB1506, HB886, HB3546, HB796, HB223, HB1475, HB3556, HB4638, HB111, HB180, HB342, HB1027, HB1178, HB610, HB1277, HB1615, HB1620, HB5342, HB4885, HB4751, HB4689, HB4530, HB4488, HB2149, HB2041, HB2071, HB1813, HB2282, HB2248, HB2243, HB2522, HB2310, HB2513, HB2300, HB1902, HB3719, HB4284, HB4327, HB3743, HB3778, HB3801, HB5153, HB5147, HB4877, HB4850, HB3158, HB3261, HB3005, HB3033, HB3138, HB3099, HB2849, HB2967, HB3488, HB3477, HB3466, HB3396, HB3469, HB2594, HB2776, HB2564, HB2298, HB5331, HB5646, HB5247, HB5323, HB2015, HB4384, HB3896, HB4014, HB3627, HB3594, HB2524, HB510, HB561, HB5111, HB5446, HB1181, HB3963, HB2785, HB1661, HB2460, HCR98, HCR92, HCR126
Summary: The meeting involved significant discussions on a variety of bills, notably including the passage of HB3305, which relates to the continuation of health care provider participation programs in certain counties, and received overwhelming support with 106 ayes. Another critical bill discussed was HB3474, which amends the evaluation and reporting of investment practices for public retirement systems, passing unanimously with 147 ayes. Additionally, there was debate surrounding HB2149 concerning non-conforming land uses post-zoning changes, which drew a point of order due to concerns over misleading analysis. The meeting showcased an active participation from members, with a focus on health care and zoning issues as debated by various representatives along with public testimonies incorporated into the session.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Senate Session Aug 1st, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • So, in 1937, despite the therapeutic use of this plant dating back to 2700 BCE, the Marijuana Tax Act
  • "973" data-time="5832">And then, when Representative Drew Darby asked them, "How will, how does the tax
  • And that's done with our own tax dollars, by the way.
  • They've lobbied against property tax relief.
  • They even lobbied against the safety of women and children in private spaces with your own tax dollars
Bills: SB5, SB11, SB12
Summary: The committee meeting held a vigorous debate primarily concerning Senate Bills 11, 12, and 5, each addressing significant legislative issues including taxpayer-funded lobbying, election integrity, and the regulation of hemp-derived THC products. Proponents of SB12 defended it as necessary for transparency and fiscal responsibility, emphasizing the suppression of taxpayer-funded lobbying as a means to protect taxpayer interests. In contrast, opponents raised concerns that the bill would silence local government voices and hinder advocacy from smaller communities, arguing that it undermines local control and representation in the legislative process. Throughout the discussions, key testimonies illustrated the political divides over these legislative priorities, generating significant public interest and engagement.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • The tax code allows rentals up to 180 days, but the collision damage waiver statute in the Business and
  • It is a mystery to our team why the tax code and the Business and Commerce Code definitions do not line
  • This was made up of money from a variety of sources, including taxes, custom duties, and National Park
  • ... taxes, but actually by money that has grown—money on our
  • You know, we're a different investor because it's tax-related.
Summary: This meeting featured discussions regarding various legislative issues that are currently affecting the community. Members debated a number of bills, taking into account public opinions and expert testimonies. Key highlights included a pointed discussion about environmental regulations and the implications of new policies on local businesses. Furthermore, concerns were raised about the effectiveness of recent legislation pertaining to healthcare reforms.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) May 5th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It was thought at the time that a sales tax was going to be too regressive.
  • ...and that a voluntary non-regressive tax would make more
  • So it's a very tremendously ineffective tax.
  • So it comes to the effectiveness of a tax rate. So the problem they've got...
  • thought was going to be regressive, that this enterprise really would make sales tax blush as far as
Summary: The Committee on State Affairs held a comprehensive meeting focused on several noteworthy bills, particularly those related to the Texas Lottery Commission and foreign adversaries. Discussions were led by various members, including Senator Hall, who expressed serious concerns regarding the legality and integrity of practices within the Lottery Commission, alleging that it has enabled a series of fraudulent activities. Testimonies were heard from stakeholders advocating for House Bill 130, aimed at protecting Texans' genetic information from foreign access. The committee also reviewed House Bills 119 and 581, which tackle transparency in dealings with lobbyists connected to foreign adversaries and address child safety against evolving technological threats, including deepfake technology, respectively. The atmosphere was engaging, with active participation from both committee members and witnesses from various organizations arguing for or against the proposed legislation. The meeting concluded with gratitude expressed towards the committee staff for their efforts in facilitating a productive session, acknowledging both the importance of the issues at hand and the various testimonies provided. The members agreed on the significance of regulating the Lottery Commission more effectively and ensuring the protection of Texans from potentially harmful external influences. All bills were left pending for further discussion and refinement in future meetings.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Economic Development May 19th, 2025

Senate Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • marker="193" data-time="1152"> ...impact to the community and state on the occasion of a given event in tax
  • receipts, which includes the Sales Tax, Hotel Occupancy Tax, Mixed Beverage Tax, and Motor Vehicle Tax
  • Number one was reducing the inventory tax on small businesses, for which I want to commend the Senate
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Economic Development Committee focused on several key bills aimed at enhancing economic development and addressing infrastructure needs in Texas. Notably, House Bill 5195 was discussed to modernize state agency websites, making them accessible and user-friendly for small businesses. Senator Alvarado emphasized the importance of this legislation in providing a better online experience for Texas residents and businesses alike, noting that outdated websites pose significant barriers. The bill received strong support from both committee members and public witnesses, highlighting its potential to spur economic growth. Furthermore, House Bills 2760 and 2765 were also favorably reported, aimed at refining the unemployment benefit appeal process and expanding resources for rural economic development, respectively.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Energy Resources Mar 3rd, 2025 at 11:03 am

House Energy Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • They produce oil and gas, they pay severance taxes, and severance taxes go into the treasury.
  • They pay sales taxes, they pay ad valorem taxes, and they pay to plug wells.
  • To put that in context, $27 billion in taxes and royalties was paid last year.
  • ...And of course, state severance taxes.
  • This results in lost taxes and other beneficial economic activity that comes with it.
Summary: The House Committee on Energy Resources held its inaugural meeting where members emphasized their commitment to addressing critical issues facing the energy sector in Texas. Chairman Darby initiated discussions focused on legislative priorities, notably the management of inactive and orphaned wells, which have become a significant economic and environmental concern. The committee also discussed the balance between regulatory oversight and industry growth, emphasizing collaborative efforts among members and stakeholders to create effective policy. Testimonies highlighted the importance of tackling concerns related to produced water and ensuring sustainable practices in Texas's vast energy landscape, including innovations in hydrogen production and recycling.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Mar 19th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • dollars per year from state sales tax revenue and depositing
  • We neither levy taxes nor receive state appropriations.
  • And keep in mind, my only goal here is that if increasing costs are 10 to 20 percent, and if you tax
  • Um, do y'all, as a PUA, have tax...
  • Only two of those actually have taxing authority.
Summary: The committee meeting addressed critical water infrastructure issues, focusing primarily on H.J.R. 7 and HB 1400. Members emphasized the urgent need for dedicated funding to tackle Texas's impending water crisis, as population growth and drought significantly strain current water resources. Notable discussions included testimonies from representatives of the Environmental Defense Fund and the Texas Alliance of Groundwater Districts, who expressed strong support for these bills, underlining their importance in improving groundwater management and funding scientific approaches to water conservation. The committee highlighted the necessity of equipping groundwater conservation districts with resources to ensure robust groundwater science and research.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation May 8th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • > ...industrial corridors, hosting projects that generate jobs, tax
  • That then takes it off our tax rolls, and that land sits there for multiple years.
  • We do not have... we do not levy a tax against them.
  • So these are not tax payments, but they are payments to the port.
  • They're a contract that we've entered into with industry to avoid their requirement to pay taxes for
Summary: The meeting focused on various transportation-related bills, including discussions around essential infrastructure for flood control, electric bicycles, and safety measures for cyclists. Representative Martinez introduced HB3544, highlighting the flooding issues in the Rio Grande Valley and the need for proper stormwater management. The bill garnered attention as it addresses urgent concerns for local emergency services and community safety. Additionally, CSHB4089 outlined regulations for electric bicycles in state parks, promoting access and safety for all park-goers. There was a significant public turnout, with testimonies both in support and against various proposed bills, reflecting community engagement and interest in transportation safety.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Licensing & Administrative Procedures Mar 11th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Licensing & Administrative Procedures Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We issue licenses, collect excise taxes, and ensure compliance with the Alcoholic Beverage Code, handling
  • are not going to end up being distributed into retail where someone could possibly cheat on their taxes
  • That includes excise taxes and license fees; $255 million of that is from excise taxes, and then $56
  • Excise taxes are collected there, and those auditors ensure that distributors and the wholesalers that
  • are paying excise taxes are doing so correctly.
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on legislative discussions surrounding House Bills 11 and 3579, with a significant emphasis on regulatory measures concerning lottery ticket couriers and modernization of licensing systems for the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Various committee members engaged in lively debates, particularly around the implications of using couriers within the lottery framework, as this raised concerns about regulatory gaps and the need for clearer oversight. Additionally, there was mention of the agency’s efforts to combat human trafficking through updated regulations and enforcement actions, indicating a priority agenda for the session.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Feb 4th, 2025 at 02:02 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • They include important issues such as property taxes,

  • data-time="888">Every day the House doesn't act on priority legislation, like finally ending property taxes
  • The chair recognizes Mayor Jason Harper, County Tax Assessor
  • we could take action on today if we wanted to, and they include important issues such as property taxes
  • If the House doesn't act, priority legislation, like finally ending property taxes, risks failing.
Summary: The committee meeting highlighted several key resolutions, including the recognition of various days to celebrate regions and groups within Texas. Notably, H.R. 127 was passed, recognizing February 4th, 2025, as Texas Energy Day, underscoring the significance of the oil and gas industry in Texas' economy. During discussions, Representative Harrison voiced strong opposition to SCR 11, expressing concerns over legislative inaction and advocating for tackling pressing issues like property taxes and educational reform. His remarks underscored frustrations with the current leadership’s handling of significant legislation, suggesting a pattern of strategic inaction to avoid accountability.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • In fact, the law prohibits us, in the tax bill that Senator Cantwell referenced, from looking at Social
  • In fact, the law prohibits us, in the tax bill that Senator Cantwell referenced, from looking at Social
  • and take out of Social Security and give tax breaks to billionaires
  • billions of dollars out of Social Security to give to a tax
  • In fact, the law prohibits us, in the tax bill that Senator Cantwell referenced, from looking at Social
Summary: The meeting of the Finance Committee primarily focused on the nomination of Frank Bisignano for Commissioner of the Social Security Administration. Members discussed the nominee's qualifications extensively, raising concerns about his past connections to Doge and the implications for Social Security. Several Senators expressed doubts about Bisignano's ability to improve the existing issues faced by the Social Security Administration, particularly related to staffing, customer service, and the potential for service cuts that could ultimately harm beneficiaries. The atmosphere was contentious, with divisive opinions visible among the committee members as they scrutinized Bisignano's past dealings and strategies.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on International Relations Apr 14th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House S/C on International Relations

Transcript Highlights:
  • Texas depend on this, and termination of this trade agreement would result in what I call a tomato tax
  • This tax would only apply to Mexican tomatoes and not to any other tomatoes.
  • It would essentially function as a tax.
  • Property taxes for the same acreage in Arizona are $4,000, but because we have greenhouses, it's almost
Bills: HCR108, HCR127
Summary: The committee meeting focused on two significant resolutions: HCR108 and HCR127. HCR108 urges the U.S. Department of Commerce to maintain the tomato suspension agreement, which has been pivotal for Texas's economy and food security since its inception in 1996. Numerous stakeholders, including county commissioners and mayors, testified on the agreement's importance, claiming that its termination could jeopardize over 30,000 jobs and lead to a $4.5 billion loss in the Texas economy. The tomatoes imported under this agreement are crucial not only for fresh produce availability but also for maintaining a stable market for local farmers and businesses. The chair acknowledged the testimony and discussed the economic ramifications of potential changes to trade policies, insisting on the need for support to continue the current agreement.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government Apr 29th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Estimated ad valorem taxes were included because that was
  • marker="127" data-time="756"> Deadlines for good cause are added, along with a provision denying the tax
  • exemption to residential developments for taxes imposed by Water Conservation, Reclamation, and Emergency
  • Legislative Counsel C.C.H.C. users are required to enter into a written agreement for payment in lieu of taxes
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Local Government focused on evaluating a series of bills crucial to local governance and housing development. A notable highlight was the advancement of various bills, including SB2250 and SB375, both of which received unanimous support from committee members. Additionally, SB867 was passed with the introduction of a committee substitute, demonstrating the committee's willingness to adapt and negotiate terms to ensure suitable legislation. The members voiced their opinions on the importance of these bills in addressing housing and community development needs while ensuring efficient use of resources.

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