Relating to a periodic review and expiration dates of state and local tax preferences.
The bill requires that any tax preference that has been reviewed must expire if it is not reauthorized by the legislature within two years following the commission's final report. Furthermore, any tax preferences enacted on or after September 1, 2026, must include definitive expiration dates not exceeding six years. This is expected to create a more accountable and transparent tax structure, encouraging lawmakers to better evaluate the effectiveness of tax incentives and reduce any misuse or unnecessary advantages that could hamper state revenue.
House Bill 3279 is aimed at establishing a systematic approach to the review and potential expiration of state and local tax preferences. The proposed bill amends the Government Code by adding Chapter 320A, which mandates the creation of a select commission responsible for conducting these periodic reviews. This commission will be composed of members from both the House of Representatives and the Senate, alongside the state's comptroller. The intent behind this bill is to ensure that tax incentives, such as exemptions and credits, are periodically evaluated for their effectiveness and necessity.
A significant point of contention may arise about the potential impacts of automatically expiring tax preferences on businesses and local governments that currently rely on these incentives for economic activities. Proponents argue that the bill will enhance fiscal responsibility while ensuring that only effective tax preferences remain in place, thereby supporting economic growth. However, critics may express concerns regarding the administrative burden on the commission and the potential for unexpected disruptions in local economies due to the expiration of essential tax benefits.