Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas House Bill HB605

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

Caption

Relating to a franchise tax credit for taxable entities that pay employees during jury selection or jury service.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would amend the Texas Tax Code by introducing Subchapter T, which delineates the qualifications for the credit amount, application process, and limitations associated with the credit. A business qualifies for the credit if it pays at least one employee their regular salary for up to five days of absence due to jury duty. Notably, if an employee serves for more than five days, additional provisions apply. The credit amount is set at 15% of the franchise tax due, demonstrating an incentive for employers to support employees participating in the judicial process.

Summary

House Bill 605 proposes a franchise tax credit for taxable entities that compensate their employees during jury selection or jury service. The bill introduces a structure within the Texas Tax Code to provide financial relief to businesses that continue to pay employees who are absent from work due to their civic duties related to jury service. The proposed framework seeks to alleviate the potential financial burden on employers, ensuring that employees can fulfill their civic responsibilities without the fear of losing income during their absence.

Contention

Debate surrounding HB 605 may center on its financial implications for the state's tax revenue versus the intended benefits for civic engagement. While proponents advocate for the importance of maintaining workforce participation during jury service, critics could raise concerns that such credits may disproportionately benefit larger businesses or create loopholes that could be exploited inappropriately. The effectiveness of enforcement and the administration of the credit will also be critical points of discussion, as streamlined processes will be needed to ensure businesses can apply efficiently without undue complexity.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4747

Relating to a franchise tax credit for taxable entities that provide child care.

TX HB5263

Relating to a franchise tax credit for certain taxable entities that provide certain employees with job-related skills training.

TX HB3785

Relating to a franchise tax credit for taxable entities that employ certain apprentices.

TX HB4482

Relating to a franchise tax credit for a taxable entity that employs certain former offenders.

TX SB1748

Relating to a franchise tax credit for a taxable entity that employs certain former offenders.

TX SB1476

Relating to a franchise tax credit for taxable entities that purchase certain theft deterrent and property loss prevention equipment.

TX HB1118

Relating to a franchise tax credit for entities that establish a grocery store or healthy corner store in a food desert.

TX SB356

Relating to a franchise tax credit for a taxable entity that participates in the federal electronic verification of employment authorization program.

TX HB2344

Relating to a franchise tax credit for a taxable entity that assists an employee in obtaining a high school diploma or high school equivalency certificate.

TX HB4809

Relating to the strong families credit against certain taxes for entities that contribute to certain organizations.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.