Texas House Bill HB1977

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to a requirement that a fiscal impact statement be provided before a taxing unit may enter into a tax abatement agreement.

Impact

The introduction of a fiscal impact statement requirement is expected to modify how tax abatement agreements are negotiated and finalized at the local level. By mandating an evaluation of how such agreements affect critical public services, HB 1977 aims to protect the financial wellbeing of communities. Supporters argue that this legislation will help ensure that local governments do not enter into detrimental agreements that could strain educational resources, impair transportation infrastructure, or negatively influence public safety. Conversely, some critics of the bill have voiced concerns that this additional requirement could slow down the process of securing tax abatements, potentially hindering economic development opportunities if localities become overly cautious.

Summary

House Bill 1977 establishes a requirement for taxing units to prepare a fiscal impact statement before entering into any tax abatement agreement. This statement must assess the direct economic implications of the tax abatement on local schools, public safety, and transportation systems within the respective municipality or county targeted by the agreement. The intent of this provision is to ensure that local governments have a comprehensive understanding of how tax incentives may affect public services, thereby promoting accountability and transparency in financial decision-making related to tax abatements.

Contention

Key points of contention surrounding HB 1977 include the potential burden placed on local governments required to generate these fiscal impact statements. Opponents argue that the additional administrative workload may deter cities and counties from pursuing tax abatements altogether, which could have repercussions for local business development. On the other hand, proponents assert that the advantages of informed decision-making outweigh the costs of these minor bureaucratic challenges. As the bill moves through the legislative process, debates will likely continue on both the operational feasibility for taxing units and the significance of ensuring thorough assessments of tax incentives' broader economic effects.