Texas House Bill HB427

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the $1 million total revenue exemption for the franchise tax.

Impact

If passed, HB427 will have significant implications for small businesses across Texas. By exempting those with total revenues of $1 million or less from the franchise tax, the bill is likely to provide a greater financial cushion during economically challenging times. This change could result in increased capital for small business owners to invest in their operations, hire additional employees, or enhance their services, which in turn could stimulate local economies throughout the state.

Summary

House Bill 427 proposes a total revenue exemption for the franchise tax for businesses earning $1 million or less. This legislation is aimed at easing the financial burden on small businesses in Texas, which advocates argue will foster a more favorable economic environment. The bill seeks to remove certain provisions from previous legislation that sought to amend the tax code, making it more straightforward for eligible businesses to be exempt from franchise tax obligations, thereby potentially allowing them to reinvest savings into growth.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB427 appears largely positive among small business advocates and many lawmakers who believe that tax relief for smaller enterprises is a crucial step towards economic recovery and growth. Proponents are eager to see the potential benefits realized through enhanced business viability and job creation. Nevertheless, there might be some concern from legislators and stakeholders who are wary of the state's revenue impact and whether such exemptions could result in broader funding issues for state programs reliant on franchise tax income.

Contention

While there seems to be overall support for the bill, notable points of contention may arise regarding the implications for state tax revenue. Opponents of the bill could express concerns over decreased tax collections from the franchise tax if a significant number of businesses take advantage of the exemption, leading to a potential shortfall in funding for state services. This debate highlights the ongoing tension between providing financial relief to small businesses and ensuring that the state's budget remains balanced and able to support essential public services.