Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas House Bill HB3471

Caption

Relating to a sales tax refund for sales tax overpayments by certain oil or gas severance taxpayers.

Impact

The introduction of HB 3471 is expected to have a significant impact on state tax law, particularly by modifying the procedures and eligibility criteria regarding tax refunds for specific severance tax overpayments. It reinforces the state's commitment to fiscal fairness by allowing corrections for tax overpayments, thereby supporting the financial interests of oil and gas entities, which are vital contributors to the state's economy. The bill explicitly states that prior tax liabilities remain unaffected, which maintains clarity in tax enforcement and compliance.

Summary

House Bill 3471 addresses the issue of sales tax refunds specifically for taxpayers involved in oil or gas severance operations. The bill allows individuals or entities who have mistakenly overpaid sales taxes related to severance to claim a refund from the state comptroller. This legislative change aims to correct tax overpayments and streamline the refund process for eligible taxpayers, ensuring they are not unduly burdened by tax mistakes that occur in the complicated oil and gas taxation landscape.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 3471 is largely positive among stakeholders in the oil and gas sector, who view the bill as a necessary reform that mitigates financial penalties for tax overpayments. Supporters argue that the bill enhances fairness and encourages compliance within a challenging regulatory environment. However, there may be concerns regarding the administrative burden this amendment could place on the comptroller's office in terms of processing these refunds efficiently, highlighting the need for effective implementation mechanisms.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential for abuse of the refund process and the administrative feasibility of managing additional claims. Critics may voice concerns that without stringent controls, the system could be manipulated by unscrupulous entities looking to exploit the refund mechanism. Moreover, there are discussions about ensuring transparency in how the refund process is administered to maintain public trust in the tax system.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3389

Relating to a refund of motor vehicle sales taxes paid on certain bad debt.

TX HB2056

Relating to a severance tax exemption for oil and gas produced from certain restimulation wells; providing a civil penalty.

TX SB1407

Relating to a severance tax exemption for oil and gas produced from certain restimulation wells; providing a civil penalty.

TX SB952

Relating to certain tax and fee collection procedures and taxpayer suits.

TX HB2525

Relating to certain tax and fee collection procedures and taxpayer suits.

TX HB3104

Relating to the temporary exemption of certain tangible personal property related to certain connected data center projects from sales and use taxes.

TX SB1265

Relating to the temporary exemption of certain tangible personal property related to certain connected data center projects from sales and use taxes.

TX HB2226

Relating to state and municipal motor fuel taxes; providing civil penalties; creating criminal offenses; requiring occupational licenses; authorizing the imposition of taxes; providing for increases and decreases in the rates of taxes.

TX HB3321

Relating to a severance tax credit for gas produced from certain wells that use an onsite flare mitigation system.

TX SB1564

Relating to a severance tax credit for gas produced from certain wells that use an onsite flare mitigation system.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.