Texas House Bill HB2042

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/27/11
• Introduced: 3/2/11
• Voted on by House: 5/6/11
• Refer: 3/7/11
• Report Pass: 4/14/11
• Engrossed: 5/6/11
• Refer: 5/10/11

Caption

Relating to defense base development authorities, including the powers of an authority and the taxation of certain tangible personal property located on the base property for which the authority is established.

Impact

The amendments proposed by HB2042 will likely enhance the operational capabilities of defense base development authorities, enabling them to charge for a wider range of services, including professional consulting related to construction and international trade. Furthermore, a clear framework for the taxation of tangible personal property associated with commercial aircraft will be established, essentially classifying such property as being in a state of commerce, thereby reducing local tax burdens. This approach is intended to attract new business opportunities and investment in defense-related projects.

Summary

House Bill 2042 aims to amend the Local Government Code regarding defense base development authorities by expanding their powers and providing specific provisions related to the taxation of certain tangible personal property located on base property. This bill facilitates various operations of an authority, allowing them to lease, manage, and develop property to support economic development and job creation within designated defense areas.

Contention

While the bill's intentions are aligned with promoting economic growth and infrastructure development, there may be concerns regarding the expanded power attributed to defense base authorities. Critics might argue that this could lead to reduced local governmental control over land usage and the surrounding economy, especially if these authorities prioritize large-scale projects at the expense of local interests. The implications of managing taxation on personal property within these jurisdictions also raise questions on how it would fundamentally alter existing tax structures and the local economies dependent on them.