Texas House Bill HB1137

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to limiting the assessment of certain fees and taxes during a declared state of disaster.

Impact

By enacting HB1137, the legislature intends to protect small businesses and other entities from incurring additional costs when they are already suffering from operational restrictions. This move could be particularly beneficial in times of emergency when every financial resource counts for struggling businesses. The bill highlights the state's commitment to supporting economic resilience by ensuring that businesses are not penalized with fees during crises that are outside of their control.

Summary

House Bill 1137 aims to provide financial relief to businesses adversely affected during declared state of disasters in Texas. It specifically prohibits the state from assessing any fees or taxes, including licensing fees, on businesses whose operation is restricted by an executive order, proclamation, or regulation during such a disaster. The objective of the legislation is to alleviate the economic burden on businesses that are unable to operate due to unforeseen circumstances like natural disasters or public health emergencies.

Contention

While the bill appears to offer straightforward benefits, it may spark debates around the implications of such measures on state revenue. Opponents may argue that limiting fee assessments could strain state finances, particularly if numerous disasters lead to widespread application of the bill. Concerns may also be raised regarding the effective implementation of the bill and how it could be enforced during varying conditions of state disasters. Additionally, there may be discussions around the fairness of the fee waiver across different business sectors impacted by disasters.

Notable_points

HB1137's implementation is set to take effect on September 1, 2021, marking a timely response to ongoing challenges faced by businesses in disaster-prone areas. The bill reflects a broader trend of state legislatures increasingly enacting protective measures to enhance support for businesses during emergencies, indicating a shift in how governments prioritize economic stability amidst crises.