Texas Senate Bill SB1283

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to the exemption from certain registration and licensing requirements and taxes for certain businesses and employees who enter this state in response to a disaster or emergency.

Impact

The bill amends the Texas Tax Code to exempt out-of-state business entities and employees from paying certain state taxes and fees while conducting operations directly related to disaster recovery. This includes exemptions for ad valorem and use taxes on equipment brought into the state and utilized for emergency work. The intention is to encourage prompt restoration services by reducing the financial and bureaucratic hurdles that may deter businesses from responding quickly to disasters.

Summary

Senate Bill 1283, known as the Facilitating Business Rapid Response to State Declared Disasters Act, aims to streamline the processes for out-of-state businesses and their employees who come to Texas to provide essential services during disasters. The bill provides exemptions from certain registration and licensing requirements for businesses and individuals whose activities are solely focused on disaster- or emergency-related work. By alleviating these burdens, the legislation seeks to attract necessary resources and personnel from outside Texas to assist in recovery efforts efficiently.

Contention

While the bill may foster faster disaster recovery efforts, it raises concerns over potential impacts on local businesses that are subject to the same regulatory requirements. Critics argue that the legislation could create an uneven playing field, favoring out-of-state firms over local entities who must comply with existing laws. Additionally, opponents warn that such exemptions may complicate the state's ability to monitor compliance and ensure that out-of-state businesses uphold safety and quality standards during their operations within Texas.