Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1143

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the allocation of state hotel occupancy tax revenue to certain municipalities for cleaning and maintenance of and erosion control for public beaches.

Impact

This legislation is expected to have a significant impact on state laws governing tourism and local government financing. With the amended Tax Code sections, eligible barrier island coastal municipalities can receive a more direct allocation of hotel occupancy taxes to address their unique challenges. By focusing resources on erosion control and beach maintenance, the bill underscores the state's acknowledgment of the importance of coastal preservation and its correlation with local economies dependent on tourism.

Summary

SB1143 proposes the allocation of state hotel occupancy tax revenue to specific municipalities for the purposes of cleaning, maintaining, and controlling erosion on public beaches. This bill aims to provide financial support to municipalities that depend on tourism and need to maintain their beaches for public use and enjoyment. By enabling the allocation of these funds, it seeks to promote cleaner and safer beach environments, which are critical for tourism and local economies in coastal areas.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around SB1143 appears to be supportive, particularly from stakeholders involved in coastal management and tourism. Advocates argue that this bill is a necessary investment in preserving vital coastal resources and sustaining local economies. As discussions progress, however, concerns may arise regarding the sufficiency and distribution of funds, with calls for accountability and transparency in how these funds will be utilized at the municipal level.

Contention

While SB1143 seems poised for support, potential points of contention could center around the prioritization of funding and the criteria for eligibility. Critics may argue that there needs to be a careful assessment of which municipalities are deemed 'eligible' for this funding, and that there should be safeguards in place to ensure that funds are not misused. The balance of state oversight versus local control will be a critical topic, as municipalities push for autonomy in managing their resources.

Companion Bills

TX HB3042

Identical Relating to the allocation of state hotel occupancy tax revenue to certain municipalities for cleaning and maintenance of and erosion control for public beaches.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4565

Relating to the authority of certain municipalities to use hotel occupancy tax revenue for certain venue projects.

TX HB2282

Relating to the use of hotel occupancy tax revenue by certain municipalities and counties and the authority of certain municipalities to receive certain tax revenue derived from a hotel and convention center project and to pledge certain tax revenue for the payment of obligations related to the project.

TX SB940

Relating to the use of hotel occupancy tax revenue by certain municipalities and counties and the authority of certain municipalities to receive certain tax revenue derived from a hotel and convention center project and to pledge certain tax revenue for the payment of obligations related to the project.

TX SB2420

Relating to the use of municipal hotel occupancy tax revenue in certain municipalities.

TX HB4764

Relating to the use of municipal hotel occupancy tax revenue in certain municipalities.

TX HB3243

Relating to the use by certain municipalities of municipal hotel occupancy tax revenue for the enhancement and maintenance of public parks.

TX SB2007

Relating to the use of the revenue derived from the municipal hotel occupancy tax by certain municipalities and to the rate at which that tax is imposed by those municipalities.

TX HB4563

Relating to the authority of certain municipalities to authorize and finance certain venue projects and to use municipal hotel occupancy tax revenue for certain of those projects; authorizing the imposition of a tax.

TX SB2184

Relating to the authority of certain municipalities to authorize and finance certain venue projects and to use municipal hotel occupancy tax revenue for certain of those projects; authorizing the imposition of a tax.

TX HB3216

Relating to the use of hotel occupancy tax revenue by certain municipalities.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.