Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Texas House Bill HB2355

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to a sales and use tax credit or refund for employers of persons who obtain a high school diploma or high school equivalency certificate.

Impact

The introduction of HB2355 is expected to have significant impacts on both employees and employers in the state. By encouraging higher education levels, the bill could contribute to improving the overall skill set and employability of the workforce. Furthermore, for employers, this presents an opportunity to reduce tax burdens while simultaneously investing in their employees' personal and professional development. The broader implications may include increased economic productivity and a decrease in the number of individuals lacking a high school diploma or equivalent credential within the state.

Summary

House Bill 2355 proposes a tax credit or refund for employers who support their employees in obtaining a high school diploma or high school equivalency certificate. The bill outlines that employers can claim a credit of up to $1,500 for each eligible employee who receives such a qualification while employed. To qualify, the employer must provide at least two hours of paid time off every week to facilitate this attainment, without reducing the employee's pay or benefits. This initiative aims to incentivize employers to enhance the educational qualifications of their workforce, ultimately fostering a more skilled labor pool in Texas.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB2355 appears to be positive, particularly among business organizations and educational institutions that advocate for workforce development. Supporters view the bill as a crucial step towards fostering economic growth through enhanced educational attainment. However, as with many legislative measures, there might be concerns regarding the implementation and effectiveness of the incentive program, particularly regarding how it would be received by smaller businesses or those with fewer resources to allocate for such initiatives.

Contention

One notable point of contention may arise from the potential administrative burden on employers required to document qualifications and process credits or refunds. Critics might argue that while the intention is positive, the administrative requirements could deter smaller businesses from participating in the program. Additionally, the eligibility criteria must be rigorously defined to prevent misuse of the tax benefits. Overall, while HB2355 has the potential to create positive outcomes, its success will depend on addressing these implementation concerns and ensuring it is accessible to all employers, particularly those who may need it the most.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB2344

Relating to a franchise tax credit for a taxable entity that assists an employee in obtaining a high school diploma or high school equivalency certificate.

TX HB2615

Relating to the operation by a school district of a foundation and trade diploma program to provide eligible high school students with educational training under a plan for the issuance of a high school diploma and the application of certain student-based allotments under the public school finance system.

TX SB2139

Relating to the establishment of the Opportunity High School Diploma program.

TX HB100

Relating to public education and public school finance, including the rights, certification, and compensation of public school educators, contributions by a public school to the Teacher Retirement System of Texas, and an education savings account program for certain children.

TX HB4631

Relating to the establishment of the Opportunity High School Diploma pilot program.

TX SB58

Relating to the rights and certification of public school educators and assistance provided to public schools by the Texas Education Agency related to public school educators and to certain allotments under the Foundation School Program.

TX HB1

Relating to primary and secondary education, including the certification, compensation, and health coverage of certain public school employees, the public school finance system, special education in public schools, the establishment of an education savings account program, measures to support the education of public school students that include certain educational grant programs, reading instruction, and early childhood education, the provision of virtual education, and public school accountability.

TX HB1

Relating to primary and secondary education, including the certification, compensation, and health coverage of certain public school employees, the public school finance system, special education in public schools, the establishment of an education savings account program, measures to support the education of public school students that include certain educational grant programs, reading instruction, and early childhood education, the provision of virtual education, and public school accountability.

TX SB9

Relating to the rights and certification of public school educators, including financial and other assistance and waivers provided to public schools by the Texas Education Agency related to public school educators, methods of instruction provided in public schools, and certain allotments under the Foundation School Program.

TX HB11

Relating to the rights and certification of public school educators, including financial and other assistance and waivers provided to public schools by the Texas Education Agency related to public school educators, methods of instruction provided in public schools, and certain allotments under the Foundation School Program.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.