Proposing a constitutional amendment to reserve to the people the powers of initiative for the sole purpose of adopting and imposing a state income tax.
Impact
The passage of HJR6 would significantly alter the landscape of taxation in Texas, establishing a formal mechanism through which the electorate could initiate the implementation of a state income tax. Should the proposal gather enough support and be approved by voters, it would facilitate future tax measures outside of the legislative process, thereby potentially increasing state revenue options. The fiscal implications of a state income tax could lead to greater funding for essential services such as education and infrastructure, however, it might also provoke debates regarding tax equity and the impact on various socioeconomic groups within the state.
Summary
HJR6 is a proposed constitutional amendment aimed at reserving the power of initiative to the people of Texas specifically for the purpose of adopting and imposing a state income tax. The bill seeks to modify Article III of the Texas Constitution by allowing citizens to propose and enact measures via petition. This initiative would need to relate strictly to the imposition of taxes on individual incomes, inclusively addressing partnerships and unincorporated associations, and cannot encompass any unrelated subjects. A petition for such a measure must gather signatures from at least four percent of registered voters across two-thirds of the congressional districts in Texas.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HJR6 is notably divided among legislators and the public. Proponents see it as a crucial step towards empowering voters and potentially enhancing public welfare through increased revenue from an income tax. They argue that having the ability to initiate tax measures would democratize fiscal policy in Texas. Conversely, opponents fear that introducing an income tax would undermine Texas's tradition of low taxes and could deter businesses and high earners from the state. This polarization reflects broader ideological divides regarding tax policy and government intervention.
Contention
Key points of contention regarding HJR6 include the long-standing resistance to state-level income taxes within Texas, often rooted in cultural and economic frameworks that favor lower taxation. Critics contend that the introduction of an income tax could lead to higher overall tax burdens and complicate the current tax system which relies heavily on sales and property taxes. Additionally, discussions may surface regarding the adequacy of safeguards within the initiative process to ensure that proposed tax measures are appropriately debated and assessed before reaching the ballot, emphasizing the need for clear guidelines and accountability.
Proposing a constitutional amendment relating to the appropriation of the net revenue received from the imposition of state sales and use taxes on sporting goods.
Relating to the authorization, licensing, and regulation of casino gaming and sports wagering in this state, to the creation, powers, and duties of the Texas Gaming Commission, to the support of the horse racing industry and reform of horse racing and greyhound racing, and to other provisions related to gambling; imposing and authorizing administrative and civil penalties; imposing taxes; imposing and authorizing fees; requiring occupational licenses; creating criminal offenses.
Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas to conduct gaming by executing a gaming compact with this state; providing for occupational licensing under the compact; limiting certain taxes and fees.
Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas to conduct gaming by executing a gaming compact with this state; providing for occupational licensing under the compact; limiting certain taxes and fees.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to require that future constitutional amendments become effective only if approved by a majority of the voters in at least three-fourths of the counties of the state.
Require the secretary of state to determine if a legislatively proposed constitutional amendment complies with the single subject requirement and is not a constitutional revision.
Elections: petitions; duties of the secretary of state and the board of state canvassers regarding ballot initiative and constitutional amendment petitions; modify. Amends secs. 474a, 475, 478, 480, 481 & 485 of 1954 PA 116 (MCL 168.474a et seq.) & repeals sec. 709 of 1954 PA 116.