Texas House Bill HB1332

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to the exemption of certain entities that operate ambulances from certain motor fuel taxes.

Impact

The impact of HB 1332 will be significant for local governments and nonprofit entities engaged in emergency medical services. By exempting these services from motor fuel taxes, the bill seeks to reduce operational costs for ambulance service providers, facilitating improved healthcare responsiveness in times of emergencies. Furthermore, this may lead to increased investments in ambulance services, ultimately benefiting the overall healthcare framework of the state. Local governmental entities are expected to see changes as the financial dynamics of emergency services organizations shift in response to these tax exemptions.

Summary

House Bill 1332 proposes an exemption from motor fuel taxes for certain entities operating ambulances. This legislation specifically aims to relieve the financial burden on organizations that provide emergency medical services and rely on gasoline and diesel fuel for their ambulance operations. The bill outlines specific criteria for eligibility, including the requirement for entities to operate licensed ambulances and have agreements with local governmental entities to offer such services. By providing tax exemptions, the bill encourages these organizations to allocate more resources towards enhancing their operational capacities and better serving their communities.

Contention

Key points of contention surrounding this bill may arise from the implications for state tax revenues, as the exemptions could lead to a notable decrease in collected fuel taxes. Opponents of the bill may argue that while the legislation supports ambulance services, it potentially undermines state funding for broader public services, raising concerns about the long-term sustainability of this fiscal approach. Supporters, on the other hand, are likely to emphasize the immediate benefits to emergency medical responses and the enhancement of healthcare services as outweighing concerns about short-term revenue impacts.