Texas Senate Bill SB1422

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the number of days that certain tangible personal property that is exempt from ad valorem taxation due to its location in this state for a temporary period may be located in this state for the purpose of qualifying for the tax exemption.

Impact

If enacted, SB1422 will have a significant impact on businesses that rely on temporary property exemptions for their operations. By increasing the exemption period, the bill could lower the tax burdens on companies that utilize Texas as a logistics hub. This adjustment in the law aligns with efforts to stimulate economic development in the state by easing restrictions that may currently deter businesses from operating or expanding their activities within Texas. Supporters argue that this extension will enhance competitiveness and attract more commerce to the region.

Summary

Senate Bill 1422 aims to amend the Texas Tax Code concerning the number of days that certain tangible personal property can be exempt from ad valorem taxation based on its location in the state for a temporary period. The bill specifically seeks to extend the current limit from 175 days to 365 days that property can remain in Texas to qualify for the tax exemption. This proposed change reflects a potential shift to encourage businesses to use Texas as a temporary storage or processing location for goods, thus enhancing the state's appeal for business operations.

Contention

Despite its potential benefits, the bill could also raise concerns among local governments regarding revenue impacts. Extending the exemption may reduce property tax revenues, which are crucial for funding local services. Critics may argue that such amendments prioritize the interests of larger businesses over local priorities, which could potentially lead to fiscal strain on municipalities. Additionally, the necessity of a prior constitutional amendment to validate the changes adds another layer of complexity to the bill's passage and implementation.