Texas House Bill HB2922

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to a registration fee for manufacturers of certain equipment.

Impact

The introduction of HB2922 is expected to have significant implications for manufacturers operating in Texas. By imposing a fee linked to market share, the bill aims to ensure that larger companies contribute a fairer share towards environmental regulation costs. This fiscal measure is anticipated to bolster the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality's ability to enforce compliance with state environmental laws, thereby possibly improving ecological outcomes across the region. However, this fee structure may also pose operational challenges for manufacturers, particularly smaller entities that could find the financial burden disproportionate to their market presence.

Summary

House Bill 2922 proposes the implementation of a registration fee for manufacturers of certain types of equipment in Texas. Specifically, the bill establishes an annual fee of $5,000 for manufacturers whose sales volume exceeds one percent of the market share in the state. The fee is to be paid by March 31 each year, beginning in 2011. The overarching aim of this legislation is to regulate and potentially enhance accountability among manufacturers while generating revenue for environmental oversight.

Contention

While the intent behind HB2922 is to foster a more accountable manufacturing sector, there are notable points of contention that are likely to arise during legislative discussions. Critics may argue that the fee could dissuade new manufacturers from entering the Texas market or stifle growth among existing producers, particularly smaller firms that operate with tighter margins. Proponents of the bill would need to address these concerns and illustrate how the fee could lead to broader environmental benefits that outweigh the potential drawbacks for manufacturers.