Relating to a periodic review of state and local tax preferences.
Impact
This legislation could significantly impact Texas' public finance and taxation system by mandating a structured approach to scrutinizing tax preferences. Specifically, each tax preference will undergo review every ten years, facilitating the evaluation of their cost-effectiveness and relevance to contemporary economic conditions. This mechanism could prompt legislative changes based on the commission's findings, potentially leading to the amendment or repeal of inefficient tax preferences that do not provide substantial benefits to taxpayers or the economy.
Summary
House Bill 1556 aims to establish a systematic framework for the periodic review of state and local tax preferences in Texas. It introduces a select commission responsible for evaluating these preferences with an emphasis on their intended purposes and effectiveness. The commission will consist of legislative members and public representatives, ensuring diverse perspectives in the review process. The bill's intent is to ensure that tax preferences serve their objectives efficiently and contribute positively to the state's economic landscape.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 1556 appears generally supportive among legislators focused on improving fiscal accountability and transparency in state governance. Advocates of the bill argue that such periodic reviews will foster responsible use of tax exemptions and credits, thereby ensuring that the state's budget is not unduly strained by outdated or unnecessary financial incentives. However, concerns may arise among certain stakeholders, especially those benefiting from existing tax preferences, who might view these reviews as a threat to their economic advantages.
Contention
Notable points of contention could emerge regarding the definition and scope of 'tax preferences,' as various stakeholders may have differing views on what should be included in the reviews. Additionally, the composition of the commission and the influence of appointed members could become a subject of debate, particularly regarding the balance between business interests and advocacy for low- and moderate-income families. The potential alterations to tax incentives as a result of the commission's findings may also provoke opposition from groups reliant on these preferences for their economic viability.
Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the periodic review of state and local tax preferences and providing an expiration date for certain tax preferences.
Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the periodic review of state and local tax preferences and the expiration of certain tax preferences if not reauthorized by law.
Relating to agreements authorizing a limitation on taxable value of certain property to provide for the creation of jobs and the generation of state and local tax revenue; authorizing fees; authorizing penalties.
Relating to the funding of projects by the Public Utility Commission of Texas to promote the reliability and resiliency of the power grid in this state; authorizing the issuance of revenue bonds.
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.
Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of the health and human services laws governing the Health and Human Services Commission, Medicaid, and other social services.