Texas House Bill HB4735

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 3/13/25
• Out of House Committee: 4/30/25
• Voted on by House: 5/8/25

Caption

Relating to rural development funds and insurance tax credits for certain investments in those funds; authorizing fees.

Impact

The legislation impacts state law by defining the parameters for rural development funds, including eligibility criteria for businesses and the conditions under which tax credits can be claimed. Entities that contribute to these funds will receive tax credits against their state insurance tax liability, incentivizing investments that support local economic development. By mandating that funds invest a significant portion of their capital in local growth opportunities, the bill aims to ensure that public investments translate into tangible benefits for rural communities.

Summary

House Bill 4735 seeks to enhance rural development in Texas by establishing a framework for rural development funds and providing insurance tax credits for investments in these funds. The bill is aimed at facilitating capital investments in targeted small businesses operating in rural areas, thereby promoting job creation, economic growth, and sustainability in these regions. It creates a system for managing these investments and outlines the responsibilities of the comptroller regarding the monitoring of fund operations and compliance with investment criteria.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 4735 appears to be supportive among proponents who view it as a crucial step toward bolstering rural economies, improving local employment opportunities, and enhancing the overall economic landscape of Texas. Conversely, there may be concerns among critics regarding the effectiveness of such tax incentives and whether they adequately address the unique needs of rural businesses. Discussions likely highlight both enthusiasm for potential job creation and skepticism about the long-term impact of investment tax credits on rural development.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the adequacy of oversight for these investments and whether tax credits genuinely drive economic growth or merely serve to benefit investors without sufficient accountability. There may also be debates regarding the criteria for what constitutes a 'targeted small business' and whether they are broad enough to encompass diverse rural industries. Additionally, discussions may focus on ensuring that the benefits of such legislative measures are equitably distributed across rural areas, rather than concentrating wealth and investment in specific locales.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

• Chapter 487. Office Of Ruralaffairs In Department Of Agriculture
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