Proposing a constitutional amendment relating to the appropriation of the net revenue received from the imposition of the state sales and use tax on sporting goods.
Impact
If passed, HJR39 would significantly impact the financial operations of the Parks and Wildlife Department and the Texas Historical Commission. By guaranteeing a source of revenue specifically from sporting goods sales, these agencies would have more stable funding, which could lead to improved resources for public services, conservation efforts, and historical preservation projects. The consistent influx of funds from this allocation may also allow for better long-term planning and programming in these areas.
Summary
HJR39 proposes a constitutional amendment to automatically appropriate net revenue from the state sales and use tax imposed on sporting goods. The bill specifies that this revenue, collected annually, will be directed to the Parks and Wildlife Department and the Texas Historical Commission. This arrangement aims to ensure a dedicated funding stream for these agencies, enhancing their ability to manage state parks and historical sites, thereby benefiting outdoor and cultural initiatives across Texas.
Contention
While the bill is designed to provide predictable funding to important state agencies, it may face criticism based on how it affects overall budget allocations. Some legislators may argue that earmarking funds from sales tax limits the flexibility of the state budget, as it reduces the pool of funds that can be allocated to other pressing needs. Additionally, there may be concerns regarding the definition of 'sporting goods' and potential exclusions if certain items are not included, which could impact the total revenue generated.
Notable_points
HJR39 highlights the growing emphasis on outdoor recreation and historical site funding within the legislative agenda. The bill's success would also depend on voter approval, as it is to be submitted in the November 2015 election, making public support a crucial factor. The outline of a temporary provision indicates a strategic approach to transition into this amendment effectively while also ensuring that state agencies are prepared to utilize these funds appropriately.
Identical
Proposing a constitutional amendment relating to the appropriation of the net revenue received from the imposition of the state sales and use tax on sporting goods.
Proposing a constitutional amendment relating to the appropriation of the net revenue received from the imposition of state sales and use taxes on sporting goods.
Proposing a constitutional amendment creating the Texas Connectivity Fund for the development of broadband and other telecommunications services in all areas of the state and authorizing the appropriation to that fund of a portion of revenue received from the existing state sales and use taxes on telecommunications services while not increasing the rate of the sales and use taxes.
Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the dedication of certain sales and use tax revenue to a special fund established in the state treasury to pay for water infrastructure in this state.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to prohibit the imposition of school district maintenance and operations ad valorem taxes on residence homesteads, to increase the rates of state sales and use taxes and dedicate the revenue attributable to that increase for public education, and to establish and prescribe the permissible uses of the homeowner protection fund.
Proposing a constitutional amendment excepting certain appropriations to pay for school district ad valorem tax relief from the constitutional limitation on the rate of growth of appropriations.
Proposing a constitutional amendment excepting certain appropriations to pay for school district ad valorem tax relief from the constitutional limitation on the rate of growth of appropriations.
Proposing a constitutional amendment excepting certain appropriations to pay for school district ad valorem tax relief from the constitutional limitation on the rate of growth of appropriations.
Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to legalize wagering in this state on certain sporting events and requiring the legislature to dedicate to property tax relief at least 98 percent of the net state tax revenue generated from the wagering on sporting events.