Relating to the expiration of certain parts of the Texas Economic Development Act.
Impact
The extension of the expiration date in HB 1651 could have significant implications for local governments and businesses participating in the Texas Economic Development Act. By allowing the existing tax incentives to remain in place, the bill aims to encourage investment and economic activity that could otherwise be curtailed if the incentives were allowed to expire. This could lead to job creation and economic revitalization in eligible areas, benefiting both the state’s economy and local communities.
Summary
House Bill 1651 seeks to amend the expiration date for specific sections of the Texas Economic Development Act, particularly Sections 313.007 and 403.302(d) of the Tax Code. The bill proposes to extend the expiration date from December 31, 2011, to December 31, 2015, allowing certain tax incentives under the act to remain in effect for an additional four years. This change aims to provide continued support for economic development initiatives, particularly for businesses located in reinvestment zones, that rely on these incentives to promote growth and investment.
Contention
However, the bill may also face contention, particularly from perspectives concerned about the long-term fiscal impact of extending tax incentives. Critics might argue that while the short-term benefits of incentivizing economic development are clear, the prolongation of tax incentives could lead to reduced tax revenues for local and state governments. This reduction in revenue could adversely affect funding for essential public services, such as education and public safety, potentially outweighing the intended benefits of economic growth.
Relating to the calculation of certain ad valorem tax rates of a taxing unit for a year in which a property owner provides notice that the owner intends to appeal an order of an appraisal review board determining a protest by the owner regarding the appraisal of the owner's property.
Relating to the duty of a school district to enter into an ad valorem tax abatement agreement under the Property Redevelopment and Tax Abatement Act for certain property.
Relating to a limitation on the total amount of ad valorem taxes that a school district may impose on certain residence homesteads following a substantial school tax increase.