Texas Senate Bill SB758

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 2/17/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 4/5/11
• Voted on by Senate: 4/12/11
• Refer: 2/23/11
• Out of House Committee: 5/4/11
• Report Pass: 4/5/11
• Voted on by House: 5/10/11
• Engrossed: 4/12/11
• Governor Action: 5/27/11
• Refer: 4/14/11
• Report Pass: 4/28/11
• Enrolled: 5/11/11
• Passed: 5/27/11

Caption

Relating to sales and use tax information provided to certain local governmental entities.

Impact

The passage of SB758 is expected to impact local tax administration significantly. With the new provision, localities can identify larger businesses functioning in their areas and acquire details regarding the taxes those entities contribute. This increased transparency may help local governments engage more effectively with businesses and foster a better understanding of the fiscal landscape. Additionally, it could improve local economic planning and development initiatives, equipping cities and counties with better data to address their constituents' needs.

Summary

Senate Bill 758 aims to facilitate the provision of detailed sales and use tax information to local governmental entities in Texas. The bill amends existing sections of the Tax Code to lower the threshold at which businesses must report their paid taxes from $25,000 to $5,000. This change is intended to ensure that municipalities and other local government bodies have access to pertinent financial data that can assist them in budgeting and resource allocation. By allowing local authorities to obtain tax information from the comptroller on businesses operating within their jurisdictions, the bill enhances transparency and supports local governance efforts.

Contention

There may be points of contention surrounding the implementation of SB758, including concerns raised about privacy and data management practices. Opponents of the bill could argue that providing such access to tax information may infringe on the financial confidentiality of smaller businesses or lead to potential misuse of the data by local officials. Supporters, however, contend that the benefits of improved tax collection and enhanced local governance far outweigh the risks associated with the changes to information-sharing laws.