Texas House Bill HJR74

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment prohibiting the taxation of the sale or use of certain food and medicine.

Impact

The passage of HJR74 would amend Article VIII of the Texas Constitution by adding Section 28, which would essentially enshrine tax exemptions for certain food products and medicines into state law. This legislative move is expected to impact the state's tax revenue structure while providing relief to consumers. By ensuring that taxes are not levied on basic necessities, the amendment aligns with the state’s broader goals of supporting public health and providing for the welfare of its residents, especially those with lower incomes who may rely heavily on affordable access to food and medicine.

Summary

HJR74 is a joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment that aims to prohibit the state of Texas from imposing a tax on the sale or use of certain food and medicine. Specifically, the resolution states that food products for human consumption and medicines that were not subject to taxation under the Texas Tax Code as of January 1, 2013, shall remain exempt from state taxation. This amendment seeks to safeguard essential items from taxation, alleviating financial burdens on citizens for these critical resources.

Contention

While the bill presents a straightforward approach to tax policy, it is not without points of contention. Critics may argue that enshrining tax exemptions in the constitution could limit the legislature's flexibility to adjust tax policies in the future, especially in response to changing economic conditions or fiscal needs. Additionally, there may be debates regarding what constitutes 'food' and 'medicine', as these definitions can evolve, potentially complicating the administration of this tax exemption.

Voting_history

HJR74 will be submitted to the voters in an election scheduled for November 5, 2013. The voting history around similar measures may provide context, as proponents emphasize the need for such protections amid ongoing discussions about the impact of sales taxes on essential goods. The resolution's past discussions may reflect wider concerns about affordability, public health policies, and state revenue considerations.