Texas House Bill HB2691

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

• Filed: 2/23/23
• Out of House Committee: 4/3/23
• Voted on by House: 4/21/23
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/4/23
• Voted on by Senate: 5/9/23
• Governor Action: 5/23/23

Caption

Relating to the authority of the comptroller of public accounts to issue certain payments to persons who are indebted or delinquent in taxes owed to the state and to state agency reporting requirements regarding such persons.

Impact

The implementation of HB 2691 is expected to enhance the efficiency of state operations by ensuring that notifications about debts reach the concerned individuals promptly. The requirement for state agencies to provide clear communication about outstanding debts could lead to increased compliance and timely debt resolution. This may have a positive impact on state revenue collection efforts, as individuals will be made aware of their obligations and given options to address their debts before state payments are withheld.

Summary

House Bill 2691, introduced by Representative Angie Button, focuses on the authority of the Comptroller of Public Accounts to issue payments to individuals or businesses that are indebted or delinquent in taxes owed to the state. The bill aims to streamline the reporting requirements for state agencies, improving the notification process for debtors. Specifically, it mandates that state agencies inform individuals when they have been reported as having outstanding debts, and it allows the Comptroller to issue payments even in cases where debts are owed, provided that appropriate deductions are made to clear those debts before any payment is released.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding HB 2691 is positive, as it appears to enjoy broad bipartisan support. The bill received unanimous approval during the voting process, which indicates a consensus on its potential benefits for improving state agency operations and facilitating better customer service for residents. Stakeholders such as local businesses also expressed favorable views regarding the bill, recognizing the efficiencies it could bring to state payment processes.

Contention

While there do not appear to be significant points of contention surrounding HB 2691, some concerns were raised regarding the balance between debt collection and ensuring that individuals are adequately notified about their debts. Critics may worry about the potential impact on vulnerable populations who could be adversely affected by debt holds. However, the bill’s provisions for direct notifications seem aimed at alleviating such concerns and ensuring transparency in the debt collection process.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

• Chapter 403. Comptroller Of Public Accounts
  • Section: 055
  • Section: 055
  • Section: 055
  • Section: 055
  • Section: 055
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 0551

Family Code

• Chapter 231. Title Iv-d Services
  • Section: 007
  • Section: 007
  • Section: 007
  • Section: 007