Texas Senate Bill SB227

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Filed: 11/10/08

Caption

Relating to a fee on certain lottery prizes to fund the TEXAS grant program.

Impact

The implementation of SB227 is expected to create a new revenue stream dedicated to the TEXAS grant program, which would provide financial assistance to eligible students. By establishing a fee on lottery winnings, the bill aims to reduce reliance on general taxation to fund education, potentially alleviating the financial burden on taxpayers. However, the introduction of this fee may lead to criticism among lottery players, particularly those who win substantial prizes, as they will face additional charges on their earnings.

Summary

SB227 introduces a new fee structure on lottery prizes in Texas, specifically targeting prizes of $600 or more. Under this bill, a fee amounting to five percent of the prize will be collected by the director of the Texas Lottery Commission. The funds gathered through this fee will be directed into the general revenue fund and can only be appropriated for the TEXAS grant program, which is designed to support higher education students in Texas. This bill marks a significant move to enhance funding for educational initiatives in the state through state-sponsored lottery revenues.

Contention

While the bill targets lottery winnings, which may seem like a voluntary tax, it raises debates about equity and fairness within the taxation system. Some lawmakers may argue that taxing lottery prizes disproportionately affects lower-income individuals, who may rely on gambling as a source of income or entertainment. Moreover, discussions surrounding the allocation of funds from this fee will likely take center stage, especially concerning the effectiveness of the TEXAS grant program in supporting students and ensuring they receive adequate resources for their education.