Texas Senate Bill SB1347

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 3/9/11
• Refer: 3/22/11

Caption

Relating to the exclusion of certain flow-through funds by qualified courier and logistics companies in determining total revenue for purposes of the franchise tax.

Impact

If enacted, SB1347 would modify existing tax regulations by allowing qualified courier and logistics companies to exclude specific revenues from taxation calculations. These companies must meet particular criteria to qualify for this exemption, such as revenue thresholds and operational requirements. This change could potentially lead to increased competitiveness within the courier industry by allowing these businesses to retain more capital for investment and operational flexibility.

Summary

SB1347 focuses on the franchise tax structure in Texas, specifically aimed at courier and logistics companies. The bill proposes to exclude certain flow-through funds from the calculation of total revenue for qualified courier and logistics entities. This is intended to ease the tax burden on these businesses, specifically with regards to subcontracting payments made to nonemployee agents for delivery services. By delineating what constitutes 'total revenue,' the bill seeks to provide financial relief and encourage growth in a sector that plays a vital role in commerce and the movement of goods.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB1347 appears to be generally positive among businesses directly impacted, particularly those in the courier and logistics sectors. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary measure to support small businesses and encourage economic growth within Texas. However, there may also be concerns from state revenue officials regarding the potential impact on tax revenues and whether such exclusions are fair to all taxpayer categories. This illustrates a common dilemma between economic incentives for businesses and the need to maintain state funding through tax collection.

Contention

The primary contention surrounding SB1347 revolves around its implications for state revenues and equity in the tax system. Critics may argue that by allowing exemptions for specific businesses, the state is creating an uneven playing field where some sectors benefit disproportionately. Additionally, questions may arise regarding the criteria set forth for what qualifies as a 'qualified courier and logistics company,' raising concerns about potential abuse or misclassification. The bill's ability to stimulate economic growth while ensuring fair tax practices will likely be a point of debate during the legislative process.