78S40999 E


By:  Grusendorf                                                   H.B. No. 1  

Substitute the following for H.B. No. 1:                                      

By:  Grusendorf                                               C.S.H.B. No. 1  


A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT
relating to public education, public school finance, and related matters, including certain new or modified taxes and fees, the authorization of a state video lottery system, and other state and local tax and revenue measures to provide sufficient funding for public education and to provide tax relief and protection for taxpayers; providing penalties. BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
ARTICLE 1. PUBLIC SCHOOL FINANCE
PART A. EDUCATION FUNDING
SECTION 1A.01. Subtitle I, Title 2, Education Code, is amended by adding Chapter 42 to read as follows:
CHAPTER 42. FOUNDATION SCHOOL PROGRAM
SUBCHAPTER A. GENERAL PROVISIONS
Sec. 42.001. STATE POLICY. (a) It is the policy of this state that the provision of public education is a state responsibility and that a thorough and efficient system be provided and substantially financed through state revenue sources so that each student enrolled in the public school system shall have access to programs and services that are appropriate to the student's educational needs and that are substantially equal to those available to any similar student, notwithstanding varying local economic factors. (b) The public school finance system of this state shall adhere to a standard of neutrality that provides for substantially equal access to similar revenue per student at similar tax effort, considering all state and local revenues of districts after acknowledging all legitimate student and district cost differences. Sec. 42.002. PURPOSES OF FOUNDATION SCHOOL PROGRAM. (a) The purposes of the Foundation School Program set forth in this chapter are to guarantee that each school district in the state has: (1) adequate resources to provide each eligible student an accredited instructional program and facilities suitable to the student's educational needs; and (2) access to substantially equalized financing for an enriched program. (b) The Foundation School Program consists of: (1) two tiers that in combination provide for: (A) sufficient financing for all school districts to provide an accredited program of education that is rated academically acceptable or higher under Section 39.072 and meets other applicable legal standards; and (B) substantially equal access to funds to provide an enriched program; and (2) a facilities component as provided by Chapter 46. Sec. 42.003. STUDENT ELIGIBILITY. (a) A student is entitled to the benefits of the Foundation School Program if the student is five years of age or older and under 21 years of age on September 1 of the school year and has not graduated from high school. (b) A student to whom Subsection (a) does not apply is entitled to the benefits of the Foundation School Program if the student is enrolled in a prekindergarten class under Section 29.153. (c) A child may be enrolled in the first grade if the child is at least six years of age at the beginning of the school year of the district or has been enrolled in the first grade or has completed kindergarten in the public schools in another state before transferring to a public school in this state. (d) Notwithstanding Subsection (a), a student younger than five years of age is entitled to the benefits of the Foundation School Program if: (1) the student performs satisfactorily on the assessment instrument administered under Section 39.023(a) to students in the third grade; and (2) the district has adopted a policy for admitting students younger than five years of age. Sec. 42.004. ADMINISTRATION OF PROGRAM. (a) The commissioner shall take such action and require such reports consistent with this chapter as may be necessary to implement and administer the Foundation School Program. (b) The commissioner may adopt rules necessary to implement and administer the Foundation School Program. Sec. 42.005. AVERAGE DAILY ATTENDANCE. (a) In this chapter, average daily attendance is: (1) the quotient of the sum of attendance for each day of the minimum number of days of instruction as described under Section 25.081(a) divided by the minimum number of days of instruction; or (2) for a district that operates under a flexible year program under Section 29.0821, the quotient of the sum of attendance for each actual day of instruction as permitted by Section 29.0821(b)(1) divided by the number of actual days of instruction as permitted by Section 29.0821(b)(1). (b) A school district that experiences a decline of two percent or more in average daily attendance shall be funded on the basis of an average daily attendance equal to the actual average daily attendance of the preceding school year. (c) The commissioner shall adjust the average daily attendance of a school district that has a significant percentage of students who are migratory children as defined by 20 U.S.C. Section 6399. (d) The commissioner may adjust the average daily attendance of a school district in which a disaster, flood, extreme weather condition, fuel curtailment, or other calamity has a significant effect on the district's attendance. (e) An open-enrollment charter school is not entitled to funding based on an adjustment under Subsection (b). Sec. 42.006. EQUALIZED FUNDING ELEMENTS. (a) The Legislative Budget Board shall adopt rules, subject to appropriate notice and opportunity for public comment, for the calculation for each year of a biennium of the equalized funding elements, in accordance with Subsection (c), necessary to achieve the state policy under Section 42.001. (b) Before each regular session of the legislature, the board shall report the equalized funding elements to the commissioner and the legislature. (c) The funding elements must include: (1) accreditation allotment amounts for the purposes of Section 42.101 that represent the cost per student of a regular education program that meets all mandates of law and regulation; (2) adjustments designed to reflect the variation in known resource costs and costs of education beyond the control of school districts; (3) appropriate program cost differentials and other funding elements for the programs authorized under Subchapter C, with the program funding level expressed as total dollar amounts for each program and the specific dollar amount to be provided for each student for the appropriate year; (4) the maximum district enrichment tax rate for purposes of Section 42.252; and (5) the amount to be appropriated for the school facilities assistance program under Chapter 46. (d) The board shall conduct a study of the funding elements each biennium, as appropriate. The study must include a determination of the projected cost to the state in the next state fiscal biennium of ensuring the ability of each school district to maintain existing programs without increasing district tax rates. (e) Notwithstanding Subsection (d), the board shall contract for a comprehensive study of the funding elements. The board shall report the results of the study to the commissioner and the legislature not later than December 1, 2008. This subsection expires January 1, 2009. Sec. 42.007. EFFECT OF SALE BY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF TAX RECEIVABLE. (a) The sale by a school district of an ad valorem tax receivable under Chapter 274, Local Government Code, does not affect: (1) the allocation of state or federal funds to the school district or the entitlement of the school district to state or federal funds under this code; or (2) the taxable value of property in the district for the purposes of the allocation of or entitlement to those funds. (b) The commissioner shall adopt rules governing, for purposes of the Foundation School Program, collection of delinquent ad valorem taxes. The rules may provide for documentation and other recordkeeping requirements.
[Sections 42.008-42.100 reserved for expansion]
SUBCHAPTER B. BASIC PROGRAM
Sec. 42.101. ACCREDITATION ALLOTMENT AND SPECIAL STUDENT ALLOTMENTS. (a) For each student in average daily attendance, a school district is entitled to an accreditation allotment of: (1) $4,459 if the student is enrolled below the ninth grade level; or (2) $5,459 if the student is enrolled at or above the ninth grade level. (b) An accreditation allotment in a greater amount for any school year may be provided by appropriation. (c) In addition to the accreditation allotment, a school district is entitled to special student allotments in the manner specified under Subchapter C.
[Sections 42.102-42.150 reserved for expansion]
SUBCHAPTER C. SPECIAL STUDENT ALLOTMENTS
Sec. 42.151. SPECIAL EDUCATION ALLOTMENT. (a) For each student in average daily attendance, a school district is entitled to an annual allotment of $300 or a greater amount for any school year provided by appropriation. (b) In addition to the allotment provided by Subsection (a), and subject to amounts appropriated and available for the purpose, a school district may apply to the commissioner for a grant to reimburse the district for: (1) the costs associated with a high level of students receiving special education services; or (2) the costs of providing high-severity special education services. (c) The commissioner shall adopt rules necessary to implement this section, including: (1) rules identifying high-severity special education services; and (2) rules necessary to administer the grant program provided by Subsection (b). Sec. 42.152. ACCELERATED PROGRAMS ALLOTMENT. (a) A school district is entitled to an allotment for the costs of providing accelerated programs in an amount determined by the formula:
AAA = 665 X ADA X PR
where: "AAA" is the amount of the district's allotment; "ADA" is the district's total number of students in average daily attendance; and "PR" is the percentage of the district's total number of students enrolled in prekindergarten through grade level 8 who participate in the national free or reduced-price lunch program as reported through the Public Education Information Management System (PEIMS) for the current school year or the percentage determined in accordance with commissioner rule if no campus in the district with students enrolled in prekindergarten through grade level 8 participates in the national free or reduced-price lunch program. (b) The legislature may provide by appropriation for a greater allotment than the amount prescribed by Subsection (a). Sec. 42.153. TRANSITIONAL PROGRAM ALLOTMENT. For each student in average daily attendance in a bilingual education or special language program under Subchapter B, Chapter 29, a district is entitled to an annual allotment of $450 or a greater amount for any school year provided by appropriation. Sec. 42.154. CAREER AND TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION ALLOTMENT. (a) For each student in average daily attendance in an approved career and technology education program in grades nine through 12 or in career and technology education programs for students with disabilities in grades seven through 12, a district is entitled to an annual allotment of $178 for each annual credit hour the student is enrolled in the program, or a greater amount for any school year provided by appropriation. (b) Funds allotted under this section, other than an indirect cost allotment established under State Board of Education rule, must be used in providing career and technology education programs in grades nine through 12 or career and technology education programs for students with disabilities in grades seven through 12 under Sections 29.182, 29.183, and 29.184. Sec. 42.155. PUBLIC EDUCATION GRANT ALLOTMENT. (a) Except as provided by Subsection (b), for each student in average daily attendance who is using a public education grant under Subchapter G, Chapter 29, to attend school in a district other than the district in which the student resides, the district in which the student attends school is entitled to an annual allotment of $250 or a greater amount for any school year provided by appropriation. (b) The total number of allotments under this section to which a school district is entitled may not exceed the number by which the number of students using public education grants to attend school in the district exceeds the number of students who reside in the district and use public education grants to attend school in another district.
[Sections 42.156-42.170 reserved for expansion]
Sec. 42.171. RESTRICTIONS ON USE OF ADJUSTED ALLOTMENTS. Any restriction imposed under this subchapter on a school district's use of an amount allotted under this subchapter applies equally to the amount by which the allotment is adjusted under Sections 42.301, 42.302, and 42.303. Sec. 42.172. MAINTENANCE OF EFFORT. (a) Notwithstanding any other provision of this code, but subject to Subsection (b), a school district may not spend in any school year for a program or service listed below an amount per student in average daily attendance that is less than the amount the district spent for that program or service per student in average daily attendance during the 2004-2005 school year: (1) a special education program under Subchapter A, Chapter 29; (2) supplemental programs and services designed to eliminate any disparity in performance on assessment instruments administered under Subchapter C, Chapter 39, or disparity in the rates of high school completion between students at risk of dropping out of school, as defined by Section 29.081, and all other students; (3) a bilingual education or special language program under Subchapter B, Chapter 29; (4) a career and technology education program in grades nine through 12 or a career and technology education program for students with disabilities in grades seven through 12 under Sections 29.182, 29.183, and 29.184; or (5) a gifted and talented program under Subchapter D, Chapter 29. (b) The commissioner may authorize a school district to spend less than the amount required by this section if the commissioner, considering the district's unique circumstances, determines that the requirement imposes an undue hardship on the district.
[Sections 42.173-42.200 reserved for expansion]
SUBCHAPTER D. NEW INSTRUCTIONAL FACILITY ALLOTMENTS
Sec. 42.201. NEW INSTRUCTIONAL FACILITY ALLOTMENT. A school district is entitled to an additional allotment as provided by this subchapter for operational expenses associated with opening a new instructional facility. Sec. 42.202. DEFINITION. In this subchapter, "instructional facility" has the meaning assigned by Section 46.001. Sec. 42.203. ALLOTMENT FOR FIRST YEAR OF OPERATION. For the first school year in which students attend a new instructional facility, a school district is entitled to an allotment of $250 for each student in average daily attendance at the facility or a greater amount provided by appropriation. Sec. 42.204. ALLOTMENT FOR SECOND YEAR OF OPERATION. (a) For the second school year in which students attend a new instructional facility, a school district is entitled to an allotment of $250 for each additional student in average daily attendance at the facility or a greater amount provided by appropriation. (b) For purposes of this section, the number of additional students in average daily attendance at a facility is the difference between the number of students in average daily attendance in the current year at that facility and the number of students in average daily attendance at that facility in the preceding year. Sec. 42.205. PRORATION OF ALLOTMENTS. If the total amount of allotments to which school districts are entitled under this subchapter for a school year exceeds the amount appropriated for allotments under this subchapter, the commissioner shall reduce each district's allotment under this subchapter in the manner provided by Section 42.312(f). Sec. 42.206. APPLICABILITY TO CERTAIN DISTRICTS. A school district subject to Section 42.401 that elects to purchase average daily attendance credit under Subchapter D, Chapter 41, is entitled to a credit, in the amount of the allotments to which the district is entitled under this subchapter, against the total amount required under Section 41.093 for the district to purchase attendance credits.
[Sections 42.207-42.250 reserved for expansion]
SUBCHAPTER E. ENRICHMENT PROGRAM
Sec. 42.251. PURPOSE. The purpose of the enrichment program component of the Foundation School Program is to provide each school district with the opportunity to supplement the basic program at a level of its own choice. An allotment under this subchapter may be used for any legal purpose other than capital outlay or debt service. Sec. 42.252. ALLOTMENT. (a) Each school district is guaranteed a specified amount per student in state and local funds for each cent of enrichment tax effort up to the maximum level specified in this subchapter. The amount of state support, subject only to the maximum amount under Section 42.253(b), is determined by the formula:
GYA = (GL X ADA X DETR X 100) - LR
where: "GYA" is the guaranteed yield amount of state enrichment funds to be allocated to the district; "GL" is the dollar amount guaranteed level of state and local enrichment funds per student in average daily attendance per cent of tax effort, which is an amount equal to the sum of the district's accreditation allotments under Subchapter B and special student allotments under Subchapter C, as adjusted in the manner provided by Sections 42.301, 42.302, and 42.303, divided by the total number of district students in average daily attendance, divided by 100, or a greater amount for any school year provided by appropriation; "ADA" is the district's total number of students in average daily attendance; "DETR" is the district enrichment tax rate of the school district, which is determined by dividing the total amount of maintenance and operations taxes collected by the school district for the applicable school year, as provided by Subsection (b), by the quotient of the district's taxable value of property for the preceding tax year as determined under Subchapter M, Chapter 403, Government Code, or, if applicable, Section 42.307, divided by 100; and "LR" is the local revenue, which is determined by multiplying "DETR" by the quotient of the district's taxable value of property as determined under Subchapter M, Chapter 403, Government Code, or, if applicable, Section 42.307, divided by 100. (b) For purposes of this section: (1) the total amount of maintenance and operations taxes collected by the school district does not include the amount of: (A) the district's local share under Section 42.306; or (B) taxes paid into a tax increment fund under Chapter 311, Tax Code; (2) school district taxes for which credit is granted under Section 31.035, 31.036, or 31.037, Tax Code, or under Subchapter D, Chapter 313, Tax Code, are considered taxes collected by the school district as if the taxes were paid when the credit for the taxes was granted; and (3) the total amount of maintenance and operations taxes collected for an applicable school year by a school district with alternate tax dates, as authorized by Section 26.135, Tax Code, is the amount of taxes collected on or after January 1 of the year in which the school year begins and not later than December 31 of the same year. Sec. 42.253. DISTRICT ENRICHMENT TAX. (a) The district enrichment tax rate may not exceed $0.10 per $100 of valuation. (a-1) Notwithstanding Subsection (a), a school district may not impose a district enrichment tax earlier than the 2006 tax year. The maximum rate that may be imposed during the 2006 tax year is $0.02 per $100 of valuation. For subsequent tax years, the maximum rate is increased by $0.02 per year, until the maximum amount specified by Subsection (a) is reached. This subsection expires January 1, 2011. (b) Notwithstanding Subsection (a), the legislature by appropriation shall establish for each biennium the maximum district enrichment tax rate for purposes of determining the district's guaranteed yield amount of state enrichment funds under Section 42.252. Sec. 42.254. COMPUTATION OF ENRICHMENT AID FOR DISTRICT ON MILITARY INSTALLATION OR AT STATE SCHOOL. State enrichment assistance under this subchapter for a school district located on a federal military installation or at Moody State School is computed using the average district enrichment tax rate and property value per student of school districts in the county, as determined by the commissioner. Sec. 42.255. DISTRIBUTION OF ENRICHMENT PROGRAM FUNDS. As provided by Section 42.312, for each school year, the commissioner shall: (1) determine the guaranteed yield amount of state enrichment program funds to which a school district is entitled under Section 42.252; and (2) approve and transmit warrants to school districts.
[Sections 42.256-42.300 reserved for expansion]
SUBCHAPTER F. ADDITIONAL ADJUSTMENTS; FINANCING THE PROGRAM
Sec. 42.301. COST OF EDUCATION ADJUSTMENT. (a) The amounts of the accreditation allotments under Subchapter B and each special student allotment under Subchapter C are adjusted to reflect the geographic variation in known resource costs and costs of education due to factors beyond the control of the school district. The amount of the adjustment is 50 percent of the total amount that would result from application of the cost of education index adopted under Subsection (b), or a greater amount for any school year provided by appropriation. (b) The commissioner shall adopt a cost of education index based on a statistical analysis conducted on a revenue neutral basis that is designed to isolate the independent effects of uncontrollable factors on the compensation that school districts must pay, including teacher salaries and other benefits. The analysis must include, at a minimum, variations in teacher characteristics, teacher work environments, and the economic and social conditions of the communities in which teachers reside. (b-1) For the 2005-2006 and 2006-2007 school years, the cost of education index is based on the teacher fixed effects index in the 2004 report commissioned by the Joint Select Committee on Public School Finance of the 78th Legislature. This subsection expires September 1, 2007. (c) The commissioner shall biennially update the cost of education index required by this section. The commissioner shall submit the updated index to the legislature not later than December 1 of each even-numbered year. Sec. 42.302. DISTRICT SIZE AND SPARSITY ADJUSTMENT. (a) The amounts of the accreditation allotments under Subchapter B and each special student allotment under Subchapter C of a school district that has fewer than 5,000 students in average daily attendance are adjusted to reflect district costs related to the district's size or sparsity. (b) The commissioner shall adopt the adjustment required by this section based on a statistical analysis conducted on a revenue neutral basis that is designed to isolate the independent effects of a school district's size and sparsity on the costs of achieving the state's educational goals. (c) The commissioner shall update the adjustment required by this section at least once in each five-year period. (d) Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, if the adjustment to which a school district is entitled under this section is smaller than the adjustment the district would receive if the adjustments provided by Sections 42.103 and 42.105, as those sections existed on January 1, 2004, were applied to the district, the district is entitled to receive the larger adjustment. Sec. 42.303. INFLATION ADJUSTMENT. (a) In this section, "employment cost index" means the employment cost index published by the Federal Bureau of Labor Statistics. (b) The amounts of the accreditation allotments under Subchapter B and each special student allotment under Subchapter C that a school district is otherwise entitled to receive under this subchapter, as adjusted under Sections 42.301 and 42.302, are adjusted in accordance with this section as necessary to reflect inflation. (c) The commissioner shall determine the amount of the adjustment for each biennium based on the difference, if any, between the employment cost index most recently published as of January 1 of the calendar year in which the first year of the biennium begins and the employment cost index most recently published as of January 1, 2005. (d) The commissioner's determination under this section is final and may not be appealed. (e) This section applies beginning with the 2006-2007 school year. For that school year, the adjustment is based on the difference, if any, between the employment cost index most recently published on January 1, 2006, and the employment cost index most recently published as of January 1, 2005. This subsection expires September 1, 2007. Sec. 42.304. FINANCING: GENERAL RULE. (a) The sum of the accreditation allotments under Subchapter B, the special student allotments under Subchapter C, and the new instructional facility allotments under Subchapter D constitutes the tier one allotments. The sum of the tier one allotments and the enrichment program allotments under Subchapter E constitutes the total cost of the Foundation School Program. (b) The program shall be financed by: (1) state funds appropriated for the purposes of public school education; (2) ad valorem tax revenue generated by an equalized uniform school district effort; (3) ad valorem tax revenue generated by local school district effort for an enrichment program in accordance with Subchapter E; and (4) state available school funds distributed in accordance with law. Sec. 42.305. ADDITIONAL STATE AID FOR AD VALOREM TAX CREDITS UNDER TEXAS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ACT. For each school year, a school district, including a school district that is otherwise ineligible for state aid under this chapter, is entitled to state aid in an amount equal to the amount of all tax credits credited against ad valorem taxes of the district in that year under Subchapter D, Chapter 313, Tax Code. Sec. 42.306. LOCAL SHARE OF PROGRAM COST (TIER ONE). (a) Each school district's share of the Foundation School Program is determined by the following formula:
LS = TR X DPV
where: "LS" is the school district's local share; "TR" is a tax rate which for each hundred dollars of valuation is an effective tax rate of $1.05; and "DPV" is the taxable value of property in the school district for the preceding tax year determined under Subchapter M, Chapter 403, Government Code. (b) The commissioner shall adjust the values reported in the official report of the comptroller as required by Section 5.09(a), Tax Code, to reflect reductions in taxable value of property resulting from natural or economic disaster after January 1 in the year in which the valuations are determined. The decision of the commissioner is final. An adjustment does not affect the local share of any other school district. (c) Appeals of district values shall be held pursuant to Section 403.303, Government Code. (d) A school district must adopt a maintenance and operations tax rate sufficient to raise its total local share of the Foundation School Program to be eligible to receive foundation school fund payments. The district's adopted maintenance and operations tax rate, including any enrichment tax rate under Subchapter E, may not exceed the maximum rate specified by Section 45.003(d). Sec. 42.307. ADJUSTMENT FOR RAPID DECLINE IN TAXABLE VALUE OF PROPERTY. (a) For purposes of Chapter 46 and this chapter, and to the extent money specifically authorized to be used under this section is available, the commissioner shall adjust the taxable value of property in a school district that, due to factors beyond the control of the board of trustees, experiences a rapid decline in the tax base used in calculating taxable values in excess of four percent of the tax base used in the preceding year. (b) To the extent that a sufficient amount of money is not available to fund all adjustments under this section, the commissioner shall reduce adjustments in the manner provided by Section 42.312(f) so that the total amount of adjustments equals the amount of money available to fund the adjustments. (c) A decision of the commissioner under this section is final and may not be appealed. Sec. 42.308. EFFECT OF APPRAISAL APPEAL. (a) If the final determination of an appeal under Chapter 42, Tax Code, results in a reduction in the taxable value of property that exceeds five percent of the total taxable value of property in the school district for the same tax year determined under Subchapter M, Chapter 403, Government Code, the commissioner shall request the comptroller to adjust its taxable property value findings for that year consistent with the final determination of the appraisal appeal. (b) If the district would have received a greater amount from the foundation school fund for the applicable school year using the adjusted value, the commissioner shall add the difference to subsequent distributions to the district from the foundation school fund. An adjustment does not affect the local share of any other district. Sec. 42.309. ADDITIONAL TRANSITIONAL AID. (a) Notwithstanding any other provision of this subtitle, a school district is entitled to the amount of state revenue necessary to maintain state and local revenue in an amount equal to the sum of: (1) the amount of state and local revenue per student in average daily attendance for maintenance and operation of the district that would have been available to the district if the funding elements under Chapters 41 and 42, Education Code, including any amounts the district would have received under Rider 82 to the appropriation to the Texas Education Agency in Article III, Chapter 1330, Acts of the 78th Legislature, Regular Session, 2003, in effect during the 2004-2005 school year were in effect for the current year; and (2) an amount equal to two percent of the amount described by Subdivision (1). (b) The amount of state funds to which a school district is entitled under this section is not subject to any adjustment for inflation under Section 42.303. (c) The commissioner shall determine the amount of state funds to which a school district is entitled under this section. The commissioner's determination is final and may not be appealed. Sec. 42.310. TEMPORARY LIMITATIONS ON AID. (a) In this section, "public school adequacy standards" has the meaning assigned by Section 42.311. (b) This subsection applies to a school district otherwise entitled under this subtitle to receive, for the 2005-2006 school year, an amount of state and local revenue per student in average daily attendance for maintenance and operation of the district that exceeds 105 percent of the amount necessary to provide an accredited basic program that meets public school adequacy standards. Notwithstanding any other provision of this subtitle: (1) the commissioner shall withhold from a district described by this subsection the amount of state funds necessary to ensure that the district does not receive a greater amount of state and local revenue per student in average daily attendance for maintenance and operation of the district than the amount to which the district is entitled under Section 42.309; and (2) a school district is entitled to the amount provided by Section 42.309, regardless of the degree to which that amount exceeds 105 percent of the amount necessary to provide an accredited basic program that meets public school adequacy standards. (c) Notwithstanding any other provision of this subtitle: (1) for the 2006-2007 and 2007-2008 school years, the commissioner shall determine the appropriate amount, based on available appropriations, of state funds to withhold in the manner provided by Subsection (b) from a school district that would otherwise be entitled under this subtitle to receive an amount of state and local revenue per student in average daily attendance that exceeds, by the percentage established by the commissioner, the amount necessary to provide an accredited basic program that meets public school adequacy standards; and (2) a school district is entitled to the amount provided by Section 42.309, regardless of the degree to which that amount exceeds the percentage determined under Subdivision (1) of the amount necessary to provide an accredited basic program that meets public school adequacy standards. (d) Notwithstanding any other provision of this subtitle, the commissioner shall withhold from a school district that is not subject to Subsection (b) or (c) the amount of state funds necessary to ensure that the district does not receive an amount of state and local revenue per student in average daily attendance that is greater than the following percentage of the amount to which the district is entitled under Section 42.304: (1) 108 percent for the 2005-2006 school year; (2) 116 percent for the 2006-2007 school year; and (3) 124 percent for the 2007-2008 school year. (e) The commissioner shall determine the amount of state funds required to be withheld under this section. Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, the commissioner, in determining the amount of state funds required to be withheld, shall ensure that the amount of state and local revenue the district receives for the 2006-2007 or 2007-2008 school year is adjusted so that a district receives any annual benefit derived from the inflation adjustment under Section 42.303. The commissioner's determination is final and may not be appealed. (f) This section expires September 1, 2008. Sec. 42.311. ADDITIONAL BASIC PROGRAM AID. (a) In this section, "public school adequacy standards" means standards for the adequacy of funding for a public school education, as determined by the legislature based on a statistical analysis of the costs of achieving the educational goals of this state. (b) Notwithstanding any other provision of this subtitle, a school district is entitled to the amount of state revenue necessary to ensure that the district has sufficient state and local revenue to provide an accredited basic program that meets public school adequacy standards. (c) The commissioner shall determine the amount of state funds to which a school district is entitled under this section. The commissioner's determination is final and may not be appealed. Sec. 42.312. DISTRIBUTION OF TEXAS EDUCATION FUND. (a) For each school year the commissioner shall determine: (1) the amount of money to which a school district is entitled under Subchapters B, C, and D, as adjusted in accordance with this subchapter; (2) the amount of money to which a school district is entitled under Subchapter E; (3) the amount of money allocated to the district from the available school fund; (4) the amount of the district's tier one local share under Section 42.306; and (5) the amount of each district's enrichment program local revenue under Section 42.252. (b) Except as provided by this subsection, the commissioner shall base the determinations under Subsection (a) on the estimates provided to the legislature under Section 42.313, or, if the General Appropriations Act provides estimates for that purpose, on the estimates provided under that Act, for each school district for each school year. The commissioner shall reduce the entitlement of each district that has a final taxable value of property for the second year of a state fiscal biennium that is higher than the estimate under Section 42.313 or the General Appropriations Act, as applicable. A reduction under this subsection may not reduce the district's entitlement below the amount to which it is entitled at its actual taxable value of property. (c) Each school district is entitled to an amount equal to the difference for that district between the sum of Subsections (a)(1) and (a)(2) and the sum of Subsections (a)(3), (a)(4), and (a)(5). (d) The commissioner shall approve warrants to each school district equaling the amount of its entitlement, except as provided by this section. Warrants for all money expended according to this chapter shall be approved and transmitted to treasurers or depositories of school districts in the same manner that warrants for state available fund payments are transmitted. The total amount of the warrants issued under this section may not exceed the total amount appropriated for Foundation School Program purposes for that fiscal year. (e) If a school district demonstrates to the satisfaction of the commissioner that the estimate of the district's tax rate, student enrollment, or taxable value of property used in determining the amount of state funds to which the district is entitled are so inaccurate as to result in undue financial hardship to the district, the commissioner may adjust funding to that district in that school year to the extent that funds are available for that year. (f) If the total amount appropriated for a year is less than the amount of money to which school districts are entitled for that year, the commissioner shall reduce the total amount of funds allocated to each district proportionately. The following fiscal year, a district's entitlement under this section is increased by an amount equal to the reduction made under this subsection. (g) Not later than March 1 each year, the commissioner shall determine the actual amount of state funds to which each school district is entitled under this chapter for the current school year and shall compare that amount with the amount of the warrants issued to each district for that year. If the amount of the warrants differs from the amount to which a district is entitled because of variations in the district's tax rate, student enrollment, or taxable value of property, the commissioner shall adjust the district's entitlement for the next fiscal year accordingly. (h) The legislature may appropriate funds necessary for increases under Subsection (g) from funds that the comptroller, at any time during the fiscal year, finds are available. (i) The commissioner shall compute for each school district the total amount by which the district's allocation of state funds is increased or reduced under Subsection (g) and shall certify that amount to the district. Sec. 42.313. ESTIMATES REQUIRED. (a) Not later than October 1 of each even-numbered year: (1) the agency shall submit to the legislature an estimate of the tax rate and student enrollment of each school district for the following biennium; and (2) the comptroller shall submit to the legislature an estimate of the total taxable value of all property in the state as determined under Subchapter M, Chapter 403, Government Code, for the following biennium. (b) The agency and the comptroller shall update the information provided to the legislature under Subsection (a) not later than March 1 of each odd-numbered year. Sec. 42.314. FALSIFICATION OF RECORDS; REPORT. When, in the opinion of the agency's director of school audits, audits or reviews of accounting, enrollment, or other records of a school district reveal deliberate falsification of the records, or violation of the provisions of this chapter, through which the district's share of state funds allocated under the authority of this chapter would be, or has been, illegally increased, the director shall promptly and fully report the fact to the State Board of Education, the state auditor, and the appropriate county attorney, district attorney, or criminal district attorney. Sec. 42.315. PAYMENTS FROM TEXAS EDUCATION FUND. (a) In this section: (1) "Category 1 school district" means a school district having a wealth per student of less than one-half of the statewide average wealth per student. (2) "Category 2 school district" means a school district having a wealth per student of at least one-half of the statewide average wealth per student but not more than the statewide average wealth per student. (3) "Category 3 school district" means a school district having a wealth per student of more than the statewide average wealth per student. (4) "Wealth per student" means the taxable property values reported by the comptroller to the commissioner under Section 42.306 divided by the number of students in average daily attendance. (b) Payments from the Texas education fund to each category 1 school district shall be made as follows: (1) 15 percent of the yearly entitlement of the district shall be paid in an installment to be made on or before the 25th day of September of a fiscal year; (2) 80 percent of the yearly entitlement of the district shall be paid in eight equal installments to be made on or before the 25th day of October, November, December, January, March, May, June, and July; and (3) five percent of the yearly entitlement of the district shall be paid in an installment to be made on or before the 25th day of February. (c) Payments from the Texas education fund to each category 2 school district shall be made as follows: (1) 22 percent of the yearly entitlement of the district shall be paid in an installment to be made on or before the 25th day of September of a fiscal year; (2) 18 percent of the yearly entitlement of the district shall be paid in an installment to be made on or before the 25th day of October; (3) 9.5 percent of the yearly entitlement of the district shall be paid in an installment to be made on or before the 25th day of November; (4) 7.5 percent of the yearly entitlement of the district shall be paid in an installment to be made on or before the 25th day of April; (5) five percent of the yearly entitlement of the district shall be paid in an installment to be made on or before the 25th day of May; (6) 10 percent of the yearly entitlement of the district shall be paid in an installment to be made on or before the 25th day of June; (7) 13 percent of the yearly entitlement of the district shall be paid in an installment to be made on or before the 25th day of July; and (8) 15 percent of the yearly entitlement of the district shall be paid in an installment to be made after the fifth day of September and not later than the 10th day of September of the calendar year following the calendar year of the payment made under Subdivision (1). (d) Payments from the foundation school fund to each category 3 school district shall be made as follows: (1) 45 percent of the yearly entitlement of the district shall be paid in an installment to be made on or before the 25th day of September of a fiscal year; (2) 35 percent of the yearly entitlement of the district shall be paid in an installment to be made on or before the 25th day of October; and (3) 20 percent of the yearly entitlement of the district shall be paid in an installment to be made after the fifth day of September and not later than the 10th day of September of the calendar year following the calendar year of the payment made under Subdivision (1). (e) The amount of any installment required by this section may be modified to provide a school district with the proper amount to which the district may be entitled by law and to correct errors in the allocation or distribution of funds. If an installment under this section is required to be equal to other installments, the amount of other installments may be adjusted to provide for that equality. (f) Except as provided by Subsection (c)(8) or (d)(3), any previously unpaid additional funds from prior years owed to a district shall be paid to the district together with the September payment of the current year entitlement. Sec. 42.316. RECOVERY OF OVERALLOCATED FUNDS. (a) If a school district has received an overallocation of state funds, the agency shall, by withholding from subsequent allocations of state funds or by requesting and obtaining a refund, recover from the district an amount equal to the overallocation. (b) If a district fails to comply with a request for a refund under Subsection (a), the agency shall certify to the comptroller that the amount constitutes a debt for purposes of Section 403.055, Government Code. The agency shall provide to the comptroller the amount of the overallocation and any other information required by the comptroller. The comptroller may certify the amount of the debt to the attorney general for collection. (c) Any amounts recovered under this section shall be deposited in the Texas education fund.
[Sections 42.317-42.400 reserved for expansion]
SUBCHAPTER G. ADDITIONAL EQUALIZATION
Sec. 42.401. DISTRICTS SUBJECT TO ADDITIONAL EQUALIZATION. (a) Except as provided by Subsection (b), a school district in which the district's local share under Section 42.306 exceeds the district's tier one allotment under Section 42.304 shall be consolidated by the commissioner under Subchapter H, Chapter 41. (b) As an alternative to consolidation under Subchapter H, Chapter 41, a school district described by Subsection (a) may elect to purchase average daily attendance credit in the manner provided by Subchapter D, Chapter 41. SECTION 1A.02. The heading to Chapter 41, Education Code, is amended to read as follows: CHAPTER 41. EQUALIZATION ACTIONS [EQUALIZED WEALTH LEVEL] SECTION 1A.03. Section 41.006(a), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (a) The commissioner may adopt rules necessary for the implementation of this chapter. The rules may provide for the commissioner to make necessary adjustments to the provisions of Chapter 42, including providing for the commissioner to make an adjustment in the funding element established by Section 42.252 [42.302], at the earliest date practicable, to the amount the commissioner believes, taking into consideration options exercised by school districts under Section 42.401 [this chapter] and estimates of student enrollments, will match appropriation levels. SECTION 1A.04. Section 41.008(a), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (a) The governing board of a school district that results from consolidation under this chapter[, including a consolidated taxing district under Subchapter F,] for the tax year in which the consolidation occurs may determine whether to adopt a homestead exemption provided by Section 11.13, Tax Code, and may set the amount of the exemption, if adopted, at any time before the school district adopts a tax rate for that tax year. This section applies only to an exemption that the governing board of a school district is authorized to adopt or change in amount under Section 11.13, Tax Code. SECTION 1A.05. Section 41.009(a), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (a) A tax abatement agreement executed by a school district that is involved in consolidation [or in detachment and annexation of territory] under this chapter is not affected and applies to the taxation of the property covered by the agreement as if executed by the district within which the property is included. SECTION 1A.06. Section 41.010, Education Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 41.010. TAX INCREMENT OBLIGATIONS. The payment of tax increments under Chapter 311, Tax Code, is not affected by the consolidation of territory [or tax bases or by annexation] under this chapter. In each tax year a school district paying a tax increment from taxes on property over which the district has assumed taxing power is entitled to retain the same percentage of the tax increment from that property that the district in which the property was located before the consolidation [or annexation] could have retained for the respective tax year. SECTION 1A.07. Section 41.013(a), Edcucation Code, is amended to read as follows: (a) A [Except as provided by Subchapter G, a] decision of the commissioner under this chapter is appealable under Section 7.057. SECTION 1A.08. Section 41.091, Education Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 41.091. AGREEMENT. A school district subject to Section 42.401 [with a wealth per student that exceeds the equalized wealth level] may execute an agreement with the commissioner to purchase attendance credits in an amount equal to the difference between the district's local share under Section 42.306 and the district's tier one allotment under Section 42.304 [sufficient, in combination with any other actions taken under this chapter, to reduce the district's wealth per student to a level that is equal to or less than the equalized wealth level]. SECTION 1A.09. Section 41.093, Education Code, is amended by amending Subsection (a) and adding Subsection (d) to read as follows: (a) The cost of each credit is an amount equal to the greater of: (1) the amount of the district's maintenance and operations tax revenue per student in [weighted] average daily attendance for the school year for which the contract is executed; or (2) the amount of the statewide district average of maintenance and operations tax revenue per student in [weighted] average daily attendance for the school year preceding the school year for which the contract is executed. (d) The commissioner shall adopt rules governing, for purposes of this section, the collection of delinquent ad valorem taxes. The rules may provide for documentation and other recordkeeping requirements. SECTION 1A.10. Section 41.251, Education Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 41.251. COMMISSIONER ORDER. If the commissioner is required under Section 42.401 [41.004] to order the consolidation of districts, the consolidation is governed by this subchapter. The commissioner's order shall be effective on a date determined by the commissioner, but not later than the earliest practicable date after November 8. SECTION 1A.11. Section 41.252, Education Code, is amended by amending Subsections (a) and (c) and adding Subsection (d) to read as follows: (a) In selecting the districts to be consolidated with a district subject to Section 42.401 [that has a property wealth greater than the equalized wealth level], the commissioner shall select one or more districts with a local share under Section 42.306 [wealth per student] that, when consolidated, will result in a consolidated district that is not subject to Section 42.401 [with a wealth per student equal to or less than the equalized wealth level]. In achieving that result, the commissioner shall give priority to school districts in the following order: (1) first, to the contiguous district that has the lowest local share percentage [wealth per student] and is located in the same county; (2) second, to the district that has the lowest local share percentage [wealth per student] and is located in the same county; (3) third, to a contiguous district not subject to Section 42.401 [with a property wealth below the equalized wealth level] that has requested the commissioner to consider [that] it for inclusion [be considered] in a consolidation plan; (4) fourth, to include as few districts as possible that are not subject to Section 42.401 and [fall below the equalized wealth level within the consolidation order that] have not requested the commissioner to be included in a consolidation plan; (5) fifth, to the district that has the lowest local share percentage [wealth per student] and is located in the same regional education service center area; and (6) sixth, to a district that has a tax rate similar to that of the district subject to Section 42.401 [that has a property wealth greater than the equalized wealth level]. (c) In applying the selection criteria specified by Subsection (a), if more than two districts are to be consolidated, the commissioner shall select the third and each subsequent district to be consolidated by treating the district subject to Section 42.401 [that has a property wealth greater than the equalized wealth level] and the district or districts previously selected for consolidation as one district. (d) In this section, "local share percentage" means a percentage determined by dividing a school district's local share under Section 42.306 by the district's tier one allotment under Section 42.304. SECTION 1A.12. Section 41.257, Education Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 41.257. APPLICATION OF SIZE AND SPARSITY [SMALL AND SPARSE] ADJUSTMENTS [AND TRANSPORTATION ALLOTMENT]. The budget of the consolidated district must apply the benefit of the adjustment or allotment to the schools of the consolidating district to which Section 42.302 [42.103, 42.105, or 42.155] would have applied in the event that the consolidated district still qualifies for that adjustment [as a small or sparse district]. SECTION 1A.13. Section 45.003, Education Code, is amended by amending Subsections (a) and (d) and adding Subsections (e) and (f) to read as follows: (a) Bonds described by Section 45.001 may not be issued and taxes described by Section 45.001 or 45.002 may not be levied unless authorized by a majority of the qualified voters of the district, voting at an election held for that purpose[, at the expense of the district, in accordance with the Election Code, except as provided by this section. Each election must be called by resolution or order of the governing board or commissioners court. The resolution or order must state the date of the election, the proposition or propositions to be submitted and voted on, the polling place or places, and any other matters considered necessary or advisable by the governing board or commissioners court]. (d) A proposition submitted to authorize the levy of maintenance taxes must include the question of whether the governing board or commissioners court may levy, assess, and collect annual ad valorem taxes for the further maintenance of public schools, at a rate not to exceed the rate, which may be not more than $1.15 [$1.50] on the $100 valuation of taxable property in the district, stated in the proposition. (e) An election held before January 1, 2004, authorizing a maintenance tax at a rate of at least $1.25 on the $100 valuation of taxable property in the district is sufficient to authorize a rate of $1.15 or less. (f) A district permitted by special law on January 1, 2004, to impose an ad valorem tax at a rate greater than $1.50 may continue to impose a rate that is $0.35 less than the rate previously authorized. SECTION 1A.14. Section 26.08, Tax Code, is amended by amending Subsections (i) and (j) and adding Subsections (i-1) and (i-2) to read as follows: (i) For purposes of this section, the rollback tax rate of a school district is the sum of: (1) the tax rate that, applied to the current total value for the district, would impose taxes in an amount that, when added to state funds that would be distributed to the district under Chapter 42, Education Code, for the school year beginning in the current tax year using that tax rate, would provide the same amount of state funds distributed under Chapter 42 and maintenance and operations taxes of the district per student in [weighted] average daily attendance for that school year that would have been available to the district in the preceding year if the funding elements for Chapters 41 and 42, Education Code, for the current year, including the adjustment for inflation under Section 42.303, Education Code, had been in effect for the preceding year; (2) the rate of $0.02 [$0.06] per $100 of taxable value; and (3) the district's current debt rate. (i-1) For purposes of this section, for the 2005 tax year the rollback tax rate of a school district, including a district to which Section 45.003(f), Education Code, applies, is the sum of: (1) the rate of $1.05 per $100 of taxable value for maintenance and operation of the district; and (2) the district's current debt rate. (i-2) Subsection (i-1) and this subsection expire January 1, 2006. (j) For purposes of Subsection (i), the amount of state funds that would have been available to a school district in the preceding year is computed using the maximum tax rate for the current year for which a district may receive state assistance under Section 42.252 [42.253(e)], Education Code.
PART B. SCHOOL DISTRICT FACILITIES
SECTION 1B.01. Section 46.002(b), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (b) The commissioner's rules shall [may] limit the amount of an allotment under this subchapter that is to be used to construct, acquire, renovate, or improve an instructional facility that may also be used for noninstructional or extracurricular activities. An allotment under this subchapter may not be used to construct, acquire, renovate, or improve a facility, such as a stadium, if the facility's predominant use is for extracurricular purposes or for purposes other than teaching the curriculum required under Section 28.002. SECTION 1B.02. Section 46.008, Education Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 46.008. STANDARDS AND BEST PRACTICES. (a) The commissioner shall establish standards for adequacy of school facilities. The standards must include requirements related to [space,] educational adequacy[,] and construction quality. The standards may not include requirements related to space or square footage for a facility or any part of a facility. All new facilities constructed after September 1, 1998, must meet or exceed the standards to be eligible to be financed with state or local tax funds. (b) The commissioner shall establish a program of best practices for the construction, replacement, renovation, or improvement of school facilities. The program must: (1) include solicitation of information from school districts on best practices; (2) recognize school districts that have achieved cost-effectiveness in construction and long-term maintenance; (3) emphasize cost-effectiveness, energy efficiency, functionality, and replicability; (4) be designed to encourage, without imposing requirements relating to specific criteria, school district consideration of: (A) best practices, including evaluation of the school district's financial status, total amount of outstanding debt, maturity of outstanding debt, and preventive maintenance of facilities; (B) cost-effectiveness; (C) projected enrollment in the portion of the school district to be served by a facility for which state financial assistance is sought; and (D) if applicable, the condition of a facility that is to be replaced, renovated, or improved with state financial assistance; and (5) include a process for local evaluation of the need for construction, acquisition, renovation, or improvement of a facility. (c) This section may not be construed in a manner that impairs or eliminates a guarantee of an eligible bond under Subchapter C, Chapter 45. SECTION 1B.03. Section 46.033, Education Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 46.033. ELIGIBLE BONDS. Bonds, including bonds issued under Section 45.006, are eligible to be paid with state and local funds under this subchapter if the district does not receive state assistance under Subchapter A for payment of the principal and interest on the bonds and: (1) the proceeds of the bonds were used to construct, acquire, renovate, or improve an instructional facility, as defined by Section 46.001, and the district made payments on the bonds during the final school year of the state fiscal biennium preceding the biennium in which the district first receives assistance under this subchapter for the payment of principal of and interest on the bonds or taxes levied to pay the principal of and interest on the bonds were included in the district's audited debt service collections for that school year; or (2) the district made payments on the bonds during the 2002-2003 school year or taxes levied to pay the principal of and interest on the bonds were included in the district's audited debt service collections for that school year[; and [(2) the district does not receive state assistance under Subchapter A for payment of the principal and interest on the bonds]. SECTION 1B.04. Section 46.034(c), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (c) If the amount required to pay the principal of and interest on eligible bonds in a school year is less than the amount of payments made by the district on the bonds during the final [2002-2003] school year of the state fiscal biennium preceding the biennium in which the district first receives assistance under this subchapter for the payment of principal of and interest on the bonds or the district's audited debt service collections for that school year, the district may not receive aid in excess of the amount that, when added to the district's local revenue for the school year, equals the amount required to pay the principal of and interest on the bonds. SECTION 1B.05. Section 46.008(a), Education Code, as amended by this part, applies to a school facility for which construction begins on or after the effective date of this part, and such a facility is not required to meet any requirements related to space established by the commissioner of education under that section as it existed before amendment by this part. SECTION 1B.06. Subchapter A, Chapter 46, Education Code, as amended by this part, applies only to the payment of state assistance under Subchapter A, Chapter 46, Education Code, for which a school district applies on or after September 1, 2005. Payment of state assistance under Subchapter A, Chapter 46, Education Code, for which a school district applies before September 1, 2005, is governed by the law in effect on the date the district applies for the state assistance, and the former law is continued in effect for that purpose. SECTION 1B.07. Subchapter B, Chapter 46, Education Code, as amended by this part, applies only to bonds that first become eligible for payment with state assistance under that subchapter after January 1, 2004. Bonds that were eligible for payment with state assistance under that subchapter as of January 1, 2004, are governed by that subchapter as it existed before amendment by this part, and the former law is continued in effect for that purpose.
PART C. STUDY ON PUBLIC LAW NO. 108-173
SECTION 1C.01. The Teacher Retirement System of Texas shall conduct a study regarding Pub. L. No. 108-173. SECTION 1C.02. Not later than January 1, 2005, the Teacher Retirement System of Texas shall report the results of the study conducted under this part in writing to the lieutenant governor, the speaker of the house of representatives, and the members and members-elect of the 79th Legislature.
PART D. COMPENSATION SUPPLEMENTATION FOR CERTAIN ACTIVE
SCHOOL EMPLOYEES
SECTION 1D.01. Notwithstanding any other law, with respect to classroom teachers, full-time librarians, full-time counselors, or full-time school nurses employed by the district, school, or service center, the trustee under Chapter 1580, Insurance Code, shall deliver an amount, as determined by the trustee, equal to the number of classroom teachers, full-time librarians, full-time counselors, and full-time school nurses employed by the district, school, or service center multiplied by $1,000 or a greater amount as provided by the General Appropriations Act for purposes of Chapter 1580. SECTION 1D.02. Chapter 313, Acts of the 78th Legislature, Regular Session, 2003, is repealed.
PART E. SOCIAL SECURITY CONTRIBUTIONS
SECTION 1E.01. Subchapter B, Chapter 606, Government Code, is amended by adding Section 606.0261 to read as follows: Sec. 606.0261. PAYMENT OF SCHOOL DISTRICT CONTRIBUTIONS. (a) Subject to Subsection (b), the state shall pay 50 percent of the total costs incurred by a school district in making contributions for social security coverage for the district's employees. (b) Payment of state assistance under this section is limited to: (1) school districts that covered district employees under the social security program before January 1, 2004; and (2) contributions made on behalf of employees in a class of employees the district covered under the social security program before January 1, 2004. (c) Using funds appropriated for the purpose, the commissioner of education shall distribute money to which school districts are entitled under this section in accordance with rules adopted by the commissioner. SECTION 1E.02. This part takes effect September 1, 2005.
PART F. CONFORMING AMENDMENTS
SECTION 1F.01. Section 7.024(a), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (a) The investment capital fund consists of money appropriated by the legislature for that purpose [transferred to the fund as provided by Section 42.152(l)]. The agency shall administer the fund. The purposes of this fund are to assist eligible public schools to implement practices and procedures consistent with deregulation and school restructuring in order to improve student achievement and to help schools identify and train parents and community leaders who will hold the school and the school district accountable for achieving high academic standards. SECTION 1F.02. Section 7.055(b)(34), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (34) The commissioner shall perform duties in connection with equalization actions [the equalized wealth level] under Chapter 41. SECTION 1F.03. Section 8.051(d), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (d) Each regional education service center shall maintain core services for purchase by school districts and campuses. The core services are: (1) training and assistance in teaching each subject area assessed under Section 39.023; (2) training and assistance in providing: (A) each program that qualifies for a funding allotment under Section 42.151, 42.152, or 42.153[, or 42.156]; or (B) a gifted and talented program under Subchapter D, Chapter 29; (3) assistance specifically designed for a school district rated academically unacceptable under Section 39.072(a) or a campus whose performance is considered unacceptable based on the indicators adopted under Section 39.051; (4) training and assistance to teachers, administrators, members of district boards of trustees, and members of site-based decision-making committees; (5) assistance specifically designed for a school district that is considered out of compliance with state or federal special education requirements, based on the agency's most recent compliance review of the district's special education programs; and (6) assistance in complying with state laws and rules. SECTION 1F.04. Section 11.158(a), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (a) The board of trustees of an independent school district may require payment of: (1) a fee for materials used in any program in which the resultant product in excess of minimum requirements becomes, at the student's option, the personal property of the student, if the fee does not exceed the cost of materials; (2) membership dues in student organizations or clubs and admission fees or charges for attending extracurricular activities, if membership or attendance is voluntary; (3) a security deposit for the return of materials, supplies, or equipment; (4) a fee for personal physical education and athletic equipment and apparel, although any student may provide the student's own equipment or apparel if it meets reasonable requirements and standards relating to health and safety established by the board; (5) a fee for items of personal use or products that a student may purchase at the student's option, such as student publications, class rings, annuals, and graduation announcements; (6) a fee specifically permitted by any other statute; (7) a fee for an authorized voluntary student health and accident benefit plan; (8) a reasonable fee, not to exceed the actual annual maintenance cost, for the use of musical instruments and uniforms owned or rented by the district; (9) a fee for items of personal apparel that become the property of the student and that are used in extracurricular activities; (10) a parking fee or a fee for an identification card; (11) a fee for a driver training course, not to exceed the actual district cost per student in the program for the current school year; (12) a fee for a course offered for credit that requires the use of facilities not available on the school premises or the employment of an educator who is not part of the school's regular staff, if participation in the course is at the student's option; (13) a fee for a course offered during summer school, except that the board may charge a fee for a course required for graduation only if the course is also offered without a fee during the regular school year; (14) a reasonable fee for transportation of a student who lives within two miles of the school the student attends to and from that school, except that the board may not charge a fee for transportation for which the school district receives grant funds under Section 34.0071 [42.155(d)]; or (15) a reasonable fee, not to exceed $50, for costs associated with an educational program offered outside of regular school hours through which a student who was absent from class receives instruction voluntarily for the purpose of making up the missed instruction and meeting the level of attendance required under Section 25.092. SECTION 1F.05. Section 12.013(b), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (b) A home-rule school district is subject to: (1) a provision of this title establishing a criminal offense; (2) a provision of this title relating to limitations on liability; and (3) a prohibition, restriction, or requirement, as applicable, imposed by this title or a rule adopted under this title, relating to: (A) the Public Education Information Management System (PEIMS) to the extent necessary to monitor compliance with this subchapter as determined by the commissioner; (B) educator certification under Chapter 21 and educator rights under Sections 21.407, 21.408, and 22.001; (C) criminal history records under Subchapter C, Chapter 22; (D) student admissions under Section 25.001; (E) school attendance under Sections 25.085, 25.086, and 25.087; (F) inter-district or inter-county transfers of students under Subchapter B, Chapter 25; (G) elementary class size limits under Section 25.112, in the case of any campus in the district that is considered low-performing under Section 39.132; (H) high school graduation under Section 28.025; (I) special education programs under Subchapter A, Chapter 29; (J) bilingual education under Subchapter B, Chapter 29; (K) prekindergarten programs under Subchapter E, Chapter 29; (L) safety provisions relating to the transportation of students under Sections 34.002, 34.003, 34.004, and 34.008; (M) computation and distribution of state aid under Chapters 31, 42, and 43; (N) extracurricular activities under Section 33.081; (O) health and safety under Chapter 38; (P) public school accountability under Subchapters B, C, D, and G, Chapter 39; (Q) equalization [equalized wealth] under Section 42.401 [Chapter 41]; (R) a bond or other obligation or tax rate under Chapters 42, 43, and 45; and (S) purchasing under Chapter 44. SECTION 1F.06. Section 12.106(a), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (a) A charter holder is entitled to receive for the open-enrollment charter school funding under Chapter 42 as if the school were a school district without a tier one local share for purposes of Section 42.306 [42.253] and without any local revenue ("LR") for purposes of Section 42.252 [42.302]. In determining funding for an open-enrollment charter school: (1) the adjustment [, adjustments] under Section 42.301 is [Sections 42.102, 42.103, 42.104, and 42.105 and the district enrichment tax rate ("DTR") under Section 42.302 are based on] the [average] adjustment for the school district in which the school is located; and (2) the district enrichment tax rate under Section 42.252 is the average district enrichment tax rate for the state. SECTION 1F.07. Section 13.054(f), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (f) For five years beginning with the school year in which the annexation occurs, the commissioner shall annually adjust the local share [fund assignment] of a district to which territory is annexed under this section by multiplying the enlarged district's local share [fund assignment] computed under Section 42.306 [42.252] by a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of students residing in the district preceding the date of the annexation and the denominator of which is the number of students residing in the district as enlarged on the date of the annexation. SECTION 1F.08. Sections 13.282(a) and (b), Education Code, are amended to read as follows: (a) The amount of incentive aid payments may not exceed the difference between: (1) the sum of the entitlements computed under Section 42.312 [42.253] that would have been paid to the districts included in the reorganized district if the districts had not been consolidated; and (2) the amount to which the reorganized district is entitled under Section 42.312 [42.253]. (b) If the reorganized district is not eligible for an entitlement under Section 42.312 [42.253], the amount of the incentive aid payments may not exceed the sum of the entitlements computed under Section 42.312 [42.253] for which the districts included in the reorganized district were eligible in the school year when they were consolidated. SECTION 1F.09. Sections 21.402(a) and (c), Education Code, are amended to read as follows: (a) Except as provided by Subsection (d)[, (e),] or (f), a school district must pay each classroom teacher, full-time librarian, full-time counselor certified under Subchapter B, or full-time school nurse not less than the minimum monthly salary, based on the employee's level of experience, prescribed by Subsection (c) [determined by the following formula:
[MS = SF x FS
[where: ["MS" is the minimum monthly salary; ["SF" is the applicable salary factor specified by Subsection (c); and ["FS" is the amount, as determined by the commissioner under Subsection (b), of state and local funds per weighted student available to a district eligible to receive state assistance under Section 42.302 with an enrichment tax rate, as defined by Section 42.302, equal to the maximum rate authorized under Section 42.303, except that the amount of state and local funds per weighted student does not include the amount attributable to the increase in the guaranteed level made by H.B. No. 3343, Acts of the 77th Legislature, Regular Session, 2001]. (c) The minimum monthly salary under this section is [factors per step are] as follows:Years Experience 0 1 2 MonthlySalary $2,424[.5656] $2,481[.5790] $2,539[.5924] [Factor] Years Experience 3 4 5 MonthlySalary $2,596[.6058] $2,717[.6340] $2,838[.6623] [Factor] Years Experience 6 7 8 MonthlySalary $2,959[.6906] $3,072[.7168] $3,178[.7416] [Factor] Years Experience 9 10 11 MonthlySalary $3,279[.7651] $3,373[.7872] $3,464[.8082] [Factor] Years Experience 12 13 14 MonthlySalary $3,549[.8281] $3,628[.8467] $3,705[.8645] [Factor] Years Experience 15 16 17 MonthlySalary $3,776[.8811] $3,844[.8970] $3,908[.9119] [Factor] Years Experience 18 19 20 and over MonthlySalary $3,968[.9260] $4,026[.9394] $4,080[.9520] [Factor] SECTION 1F.10. Section 21.410(h), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (h) A grant a school district receives under this section is in addition to any funding the district receives under Chapter 42. The commissioner shall distribute funds under this section with the Foundation School Program payment to which the district is entitled as soon as practicable after the end of the school year as determined by the commissioner. A district to which Section 42.401 [Chapter 41] applies is entitled to the grants paid under this section. The commissioner shall determine the timing of the distribution of grants to a district that does not receive Foundation School Program payments. SECTION 1F.11. Section 21.411(h), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (h) A grant a school district receives under this section is in addition to any funding the district receives under Chapter 42. The commissioner shall distribute funds under this section with the Foundation School Program payment to which the district is entitled as soon as practicable after the end of the school year as determined by the commissioner. A district to which Section 42.401 [Chapter 41] applies is entitled to the grants paid under this section. The commissioner shall determine the timing of the distribution of grants to a district that does not receive Foundation School Program payments. SECTION 1F.12. Section 21.412(h), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (h) A grant a school district receives under this section is in addition to any funding the district receives under Chapter 42. The commissioner shall distribute funds under this section with the Foundation School Program payment to which the district is entitled as soon as practicable after the end of the school year as determined by the commissioner. A district to which Section 42.401 [Chapter 41] applies is entitled to the grants paid under this section. The commissioner shall determine the timing of the distribution of grants to a district that does not receive Foundation School Program payments. SECTION 1F.13. Section 21.413(h), Education Code, as added by Section 2, Chapter 430, Acts of the 78th Legislature, Regular Session, 2003, is amended to read as follows: (h) A grant a school district receives under this section is in addition to any funding the district receives under Chapter 42. The commissioner shall distribute funds under this section with the Foundation School Program payment to which the district is entitled as soon as practicable after the end of the school year as determined by the commissioner. A district to which Section 42.401 [Chapter 41] applies is entitled to the grants paid under this section. The commissioner shall determine the timing of the distribution of grants to a district that does not receive Foundation School Program payments. SECTION 1F.14. Section 29.002, Education Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 29.002. DEFINITION. In this subchapter, "special services" means: (1) special education instruction, which may be provided by professional and supported by paraprofessional personnel in the regular classroom or in an alternate instructional arrangement [described by Section 42.151]; and (2) related services, which are developmental, corrective, supportive, or evaluative services, not instructional in nature, that may be required for the student to benefit from special education instruction and for implementation of a student's individualized education program. SECTION 1F.15. Section 29.008(b), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (b) Except as provided by Subsection (c), costs of an approved contract for residential placement may be paid from a combination of federal, state, and local funds. The legislature by appropriation shall provide for the state's share of the costs of these placements. The local share of the total contract cost for each student is that portion of the local tax effort that exceeds the district's local share [fund assignment] under Section 42.306 [42.252], divided by the average daily attendance in the district. If the contract involves a private facility, the state share of the total contract cost is that amount remaining after subtracting the local share. If the contract involves a public facility, the state share is that amount remaining after subtracting the local share from the portion of the contract that involves the costs of instructional and related services. For purposes of this subsection, "local tax effort" means the total amount of money generated by taxes imposed for debt service and maintenance and operation less any amounts paid into a tax increment fund under Chapter 311, Tax Code. SECTION 1F.16. Section 29.014(d), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (d) The accreditation [basic] allotment for a student enrolled in a district to which this section applies is adjusted by: (1) the cost of education adjustment under Section 42.301 [42.102] for the school district in which the district is geographically located; and (2) any other appropriate factor adopted by the commissioner [the weight for a homebound student under Section 42.151(a)]. SECTION 1F.17. Section 29.087(j), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (j) For purposes of funding under Chapters [41,] 42[,] and 46, a student attending a program authorized by this section may be counted in attendance only for the actual number of hours each school day the student attends the program, in accordance with Sections 25.081 and 25.082. SECTION 1F.18. Section 29.203(b), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (b) A school district is entitled to the allotment provided by Section 42.155 [42.157] for each eligible student using a public education grant. [If the district has a wealth per student greater than the guaranteed wealth level but less than the equalized wealth level, a school district is entitled under rules adopted by the commissioner to additional state aid in an amount equal to the difference between the cost to the district of providing services to a student using a public education grant and the sum of the state aid received because of the allotment under Section 42.157 and money from the available school fund attributable to the student.] SECTION 1F.19. Section 34.002(c), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (c) A school district that fails or refuses to meet the safety standards for school buses established under this section is ineligible for a state transportation grant [to share in the transportation allotment] under Section 34.0071 [42.155] until the first anniversary of the date the district begins complying with the safety standards. SECTION 1F.20. Chapter 34, Education Code, is amended by adding Section 34.0071 to read as follows: Sec. 34.0071. STATE TRANSPORTATION GRANTS. (a) Using funds appropriated for the purpose, the commissioner may award a grant to a school district or county that operates a public school transportation system under Section 34.007. (b) The commissioner shall adopt rules governing the grant program authorized by this section. The rules must provide for a funding system that: (1) gives priority to school districts and counties with the highest number of route miles per student; and (2) concentrates funding in school districts and counties with higher-than-average transportation costs per student. (c) Money awarded under this section must be used in providing public school transportation services. SECTION 1F.21. Section 37.0061, Education Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 37.0061. FUNDING FOR ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION SERVICES IN JUVENILE RESIDENTIAL FACILITIES. A school district that provides education services to pre-adjudicated and post-adjudicated students who are confined by court order in a juvenile residential facility operated by a juvenile board is entitled to count such students in the district's average daily attendance for purposes of receipt of state funds under the Foundation School Program. [If the district has a wealth per student greater than the guaranteed wealth level but less than the equalized wealth level, the district in which the student is enrolled on the date a court orders the student to be confined to a juvenile residential facility shall transfer to the district providing education services an amount equal to the difference between the average Foundation School Program costs per student of the district providing education services and the sum of the state aid and the money from the available school fund received by the district that is attributable to the student for the portion of the school year for which the district provides education services to the student.] SECTION 1F.22. Section 39.031, Education Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 39.031. COST. (a) The commissioner shall set aside an appropriate amount from the Foundation School Program to pay the cost of preparing, administering, or grading the assessment instruments and the [shall be paid from the funds allotted under Section 42.152, and each district shall bear the cost in the same manner described for a reduction in allotments under Section 42.253. If a district does not receive an allotment under Section 42.152, the commissioner shall subtract the cost from the district's other foundation school fund allotments. [(b) The] cost of releasing the question and answer keys under Section 39.023(e) [shall be paid from amounts appropriated to the agency]. (b) After setting aside an appropriate amount in accordance with this section, the commissioner shall reduce each district's tier one allotments proportionately. A reduction in tier one allotments under this subsection does not affect the computation of guaranteed level of state and local enrichment funds per student in average daily attendance per cent of tax effort under Section 42.252. (c) Any amount set aside under this section must be approved by the Legislative Budget Board and the governor's office of budget and planning. SECTION 1F.23. Section 39.134, Education Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 39.134. COSTS PAID BY DISTRICT. The costs of providing a monitor, conservator, management team, or special campus intervention team shall be paid by the district. If the district fails or refuses to pay the costs in a timely manner, the commissioner may: (1) pay the costs using amounts withheld from any funds to which the district is otherwise entitled; or (2) recover the amount of the costs in the manner provided for recovery of an overallocation of state funds under Section 42.316 [42.258]. SECTION 1F.24. Section 43.002(b), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (b) Of the amounts available for transfer from the general revenue fund to the available school fund for the months of January and February of each fiscal year, no more than the amount necessary to enable the comptroller to distribute from the available school fund an amount equal to 9-1/2 percent of the estimated annual available school fund apportionment to category 1 school districts, as defined by Section 42.315 [42.259], and 3-1/2 percent of the estimated annual available school fund apportionment to category 2 school districts, as defined by Section 42.315 [42.259], may be transferred from the general revenue fund to the available school fund. Any remaining amount that would otherwise be available for transfer for the months of January and February shall be transferred from the general revenue fund to the available school fund in equal amounts in June and in August of the same fiscal year. SECTION 1F.25. Section 46.003(a), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (a) For each year, except as provided by Sections 46.005 and 46.006, a school district is guaranteed a specified amount per student in state and local funds for each cent of tax effort, up to the maximum rate under Subsection (b), to pay the principal of and interest on eligible bonds issued to construct, acquire, renovate, or improve an instructional facility. The amount of state support is determined by the formula:
FYA = (FYL X ADA X BTR X 100) - (BTR X (DPV/100))
where: "FYA" is the guaranteed facilities yield amount of state funds allocated to the district for the year; "FYL" is the dollar amount guaranteed level of state and local funds per student per cent of tax effort, which is $35 or a greater amount for any year provided by appropriation; "ADA" is the greater of the number of students in average daily attendance, as determined under Section 42.005, in the district or 400; "BTR" is the district's bond tax rate for the current year, which is determined by dividing the amount budgeted by the district for payment of eligible bonds by the quotient of the district's taxable value of property as determined under Subchapter M, Chapter 403, Government Code, or, if applicable, Section 42.307 [42.2521], divided by 100; and "DPV" is the district's taxable value of property as determined under Subchapter M, Chapter 403, Government Code, or, if applicable, Section 42.307 [42.2521]. SECTION 1F.26. Section 46.006(g), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (g) In this section, "wealth per student" means a school district's taxable value of property as determined under Subchapter M, Chapter 403, Government Code, or, if applicable, Section 42.307 [42.2521], divided by the district's average daily attendance as determined under Section 42.005. SECTION 1F.27. Sections 46.009(b), (e), and (f), Education Code, are amended to read as follows: (b) If the amount appropriated for purposes of this subchapter for a year is less than the total amount determined under Subsection (a) for that year, the commissioner shall: (1) transfer from the Foundation School Program to the instructional facilities program the amount by which the total amount determined under Subsection (a) exceeds the amount appropriated; and (2) reduce each district's foundation school fund allocations in the manner provided by Section 42.312(f) [42.253(h)]. (e) Section 42.316 [42.258] applies to payments under this subchapter. (f) If a school district would have received a greater amount under this subchapter for the applicable school year using the adjusted value determined under Section 42.308 [42.257], the commissioner shall add the difference between the adjusted value and the amount the district received under this subchapter to subsequent distributions to the district under this subchapter. SECTION 1F.28. Section 46.013, Education Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 46.013. MULTIPLE ALLOTMENTS PROHIBITED. A school district is not entitled to state assistance under this subchapter based on taxes with respect to which the district receives state assistance under Subchapter E [F], Chapter 42. SECTION 1F.29. Section 46.032(a), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (a) Each school district is guaranteed a specified amount per student in state and local funds for each cent of tax effort to pay the principal of and interest on eligible bonds. The amount of state support, subject only to the maximum amount under Section 46.034, is determined by the formula:
EDA = (EDGL X ADA X EDTR X 100) - (EDTR X (DPV/100))
where: "EDA" is the amount of state funds to be allocated to the district for assistance with existing debt; "EDGL" is the dollar amount guaranteed level of state and local funds per student per cent of tax effort, which is $35 or a greater amount for any year provided by appropriation; "ADA" is the number of students in average daily attendance, as determined under Section 42.005, in the district; "EDTR" is the existing debt tax rate of the district, which is determined by dividing the amount budgeted by the district for payment of eligible bonds by the quotient of the district's taxable value of property as determined under Subchapter M, Chapter 403, Government Code, or, if applicable, under Section 46.307 [42.2521], divided by 100; and "DPV" is the district's taxable value of property as determined under Subchapter M, Chapter 403, Government Code, or, if applicable, under Section 46.307 [42.2521]. SECTION 1F.30. Section 46.037, Education Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 46.037. MULTIPLE ALLOTMENTS PROHIBITED. A school district is not entitled to state assistance under this subchapter based on taxes with respect to which the district receives state assistance under Subchapter E [F], Chapter 42. SECTION 1F.31. Section 56.208, Education Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 56.208. FUNDING. (a) The Early High School Graduation Scholarship program is financed under the Foundation School Program. [Funding for the state tuition credits is not subject to the provisions of Sections 42.253(e) through (k).] (b) The commissioner of education shall reduce the total annual amount of Texas education [foundation school] fund payments made to a school district by an amount equal to F x A, where: (1) "F" is the lesser of one or the quotient of the district's local share for the preceding school year under Section 42.306 [42.252] divided by the tier one allotment under Section 42.304 [amount of money to which the district was entitled under Subchapters B and C, Chapter 42,] for the preceding school year; and (2) "A" is the amount of state tuition credits under this subchapter applied by institutions of higher education on behalf of eligible persons who graduated from the district that has not been used to compute a previous reduction under this subsection. (c) A school district that does not receive foundation school fund payments during a year in which the commissioner would otherwise withhold money from the district under Subsection (b) shall remit an amount equal to the amount that would be withheld under Subsection (b) to the comptroller for deposit to the credit of the Texas education [foundation school] fund. SECTION 1F.32. Section 105.301(e), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (e) The academy is not subject to the provisions of this code, or to the rules of the Texas Education Agency, regulating public schools, except that: (1) professional employees of the academy are entitled to the limited liability of an employee under Section 22.0511, 22.0512, or 22.052; (2) a student's attendance at the academy satisfies compulsory school attendance requirements; and (3) for each student enrolled, the academy is entitled to allotments from the foundation school program under Chapter 42 as if the academy were a school district without a tier one local share for purposes of Section 42.306 [42.253]. SECTION 1F.33. Section 403.093(d), Government Code, is amended to read as follows: (d) The comptroller shall transfer from the general revenue fund to the Texas education [foundation school] fund an amount of money necessary to fund the foundation school program as provided by Chapter 42, Education Code. The comptroller shall make the transfers in installments as necessary to comply with Section 42.315 [42.259], Education Code. An installment must be made not earlier than two days before the date an installment to school districts is required by Section 42.315 [42.259], Education Code, and must not exceed the amount necessary for that payment. SECTION 1F.34. Section 404.121(1), Government Code, is amended to read as follows: (1) "Cash flow deficit" for any period means the excess, if any, of expenditures paid and transfers made from the general revenue fund in the period, including payments provided by Section 42.315 [42.259], Education Code, over taxes and other revenues deposited to the fund in the period, other than revenues deposited pursuant to Section 403.092, that are legally available for the expenditures and transfers. SECTION 1F.35. Section 2175.304(c), Government Code, is amended to read as follows: (c) The procedures established under Subsection (b) must give preference to transferring the property directly to a public school or school district or to an assistance organization designated by the school district before disposing of the property in another manner. If more than one public school or school district or assistance organization seeks to acquire the same property on substantially the same terms, the system, institution, or agency shall give preference to a public school that is considered low-performing by the commissioner of education or to a school district that has a relatively low [taxable] wealth per student, as determined by the commissioner of education [that entitles the district to an allotment of state funds under Subchapter F, Chapter 42, Education Code], or to the assistance organization designated by such a school district. SECTION 1F.36. Section 1579.251, Insurance Code, is amended by amending Subsection (a) and adding Subsections (c) and (d) to read as follows: (a) The state shall assist employees of participating school districts and charter schools in the purchase of group health coverage under this chapter by providing for each covered employee the amount of $900 each state fiscal year or a greater amount as provided by the General Appropriations Act. The state contribution shall be distributed through the school finance formulas under Chapters 41 and 42, Education Code[, and used by school districts and charter schools as provided by Sections 42.2514 and 42.260, Education Code]. (c) The trustee shall deposit state assistance for a participating entity in the fund established under Subchapter G. (d) A school district that does not participate in the program is entitled to state assistance computed as provided by Subsection (a). The trustee shall distribute state assistance under this subsection in equal monthly installments. State funds received under this subsection shall be deposited in a fund described by Section 1581.052(b)(2). SECTION 1F.37. Section 6.02(b), Tax Code, is amended to read as follows: (b) A taxing unit that has boundaries extending into two or more counties may choose to participate in only one of the appraisal districts. In that event, the boundaries of the district chosen extend outside the county to the extent of the unit's boundaries. To be effective, the choice must be approved by resolution of the board of directors of the district chosen. [The choice of a school district to participate in a single appraisal district does not apply to property annexed to the school district under Subchapter C or G, Chapter 41, Education Code, unless: [(1) the school district taxes property other than property annexed to the district under Subchapter C or G, Chapter 41, Education Code, in the same county as the annexed property; or [(2) the annexed property is contiguous to property in the school district other than property annexed to the district under Subchapter C or G, Chapter 41, Education Code.] SECTION 1F.38. Section 21.02(a), Tax Code, is amended to read as follows: (a) Except as provided by [Subsection (b) and] Sections 21.021, 21.04, and 21.05, tangible personal property is taxable by a taxing unit if: (1) it is located in the unit on January 1 for more than a temporary period; (2) it normally is located in the unit, even though it is outside the unit on January 1, if it is outside the unit only temporarily; (3) it normally is returned to the unit between uses elsewhere and is not located in any one place for more than a temporary period; or (4) the owner resides (for property not used for business purposes) or maintains the owner's [his] principal place of business in this state (for property used for business purposes) in the unit and the property is taxable in this state but does not have a taxable situs pursuant to Subdivisions (1) through (3) [of this section]. SECTION 1F.39. Section 39.901(d), Utilities Code, is amended to read as follows: (d) Not later than May 1 of each year, subject to Section 39.903(b), the commission shall transfer from the system benefit fund to the Texas education [foundation school] fund the amount determined by the Texas Education Agency under Subsection (b) to the extent that funds are available. Amounts transferred from the system benefit fund under this section may be appropriated only for the support of the Foundation School Program and are available, in addition to any amounts allocated by the General Appropriations Act, to finance actions under Section 42.307 [41.002(b) or 42.2521], Education Code.
PART G. REPEALER; EFFECTIVE DATE
SECTION 1G.01. (a) Sections 1-3, Chapter 201, Acts of the 78th Legislature, Regular Session, 2003, are repealed. (b) The following provisions of the Education Code are repealed: (1) Subchapters B, C, E, F, and G, Chapter 41; (2) Chapter 42, as it existed on April 1, 2004; and (3) Sections 21.402(b) and (e), 29.203(c) and (g), 33.002, 39.024(e), 41.001, 41.002, 41.003, 41.0031, 41.004, 41.007, 41.009(b), 41.011, 41.092, 41.099, 41.252(b), and 105.301(f). (c) Sections 403.302(j) and (k) and 466.355(c), Government Code, are repealed. (d) The following provisions of the Insurance Code are repealed: (1) Section 1581.053(b); and (2) Subchapter C, Chapter 1581. (e) Sections 21.02(b) and 26.08(k)-(m), Tax Code, are repealed. SECTION 1G.02. (a) Except as otherwise provided by this Act, this article takes effect September 1, 2005, and applies beginning with the 2005-2006 school year. (b) Section 1G.01(a) of this Act takes effect August 31, 2004.
ARTICLE 2. EDUCATION REFORM
PART A. INCENTIVES
SECTION 2A.01. The heading to Subchapter H, Chapter 21, Education Code, is amended to read as follows:
SUBCHAPTER H. APPRAISALS [AND INCENTIVES]
SECTION 2A.02. Subchapter J, Chapter 21, Education Code, is amended by adding Section 21.458 to read as follows: Sec. 21.458. MENTORS. (a) Each school district shall assign as a mentor to each classroom teacher who has less than two years of teaching experience a teacher who: (1) teaches in the same school; (2) to the extent practicable, teaches the same subject or grade level, as applicable; and (3) has at least five complete school years of teaching experience. (b) For each school year, a teacher assigned as a mentor under this section is entitled to a stipend of $1,500 for each teacher mentored. A teacher may not be assigned as a mentor to more than two teachers in a school year. (c) A stipend under this section shall be paid from funds appropriated to the agency for that purpose. A school district is not required to comply with this section except to the extent that the commissioner certifies that sufficient funds have been appropriated for purposes of this section. (d) The commissioner shall adopt rules necessary to administer this section, including rules concerning the duties of a teacher who serves as a mentor. (e) The commissioner may waive the requirements of this section if a school district demonstrates to the commissioner's satisfaction that the district is not able to assign appropriate personnel to serve as mentors. A district that receives a waiver under this subsection is not entitled to state funds under this section. SECTION 2A.03. Chapter 21, Education Code, is amended by adding Subchapter N to read as follows:
SUBCHAPTER N. EDUCATOR EXCELLENCE INCENTIVE PROGRAM
Sec. 21.651. EDUCATOR EXCELLENCE INCENTIVE PROGRAM; FUND. (a) The commissioner shall establish an educator excellence incentive program as provided by this subchapter. The purpose of the program is to reward employees in participating school districts whose performance demonstrates success in adding value to student academic achievement. (b) The educational excellence fund is an account in the general revenue fund. The fund consists of $175 million per fiscal year transferred to the fund at the direction of the legislature for purposes of the program and donations and grants made to the fund for purposes of the program. (c) The commissioner must approve each payment from the fund and may adopt rules for the administration of the program and the payment of incentive grants from the fund. (d) The commissioner shall encourage local flexibility in designing incentive programs that promote student achievement. Sec. 21.652. GRANTS TO SCHOOL DISTRICTS. (a) From funds appropriated for that purpose, the commissioner shall make grants to school districts that develop a local incentive program to enable the districts to pay incentives under this subchapter. (b) Each fiscal year, a participating school district is entitled to an amount determined by dividing the amount appropriated for incentives under this subchapter for that year by the number of classroom teachers in participating school districts in the state and multiplying the resulting quotient by the number of classroom teachers in the district. (c) The commissioner shall determine the amount of the grant to which each participating school district is entitled under this section and shall notify each district of the determination not later than March 1 of the fiscal year for which the determination is made. The commissioner's determination under this section is final and may not be appealed. (d) Except as provided by Section 21.656, a school district may use money received under this section only to pay employee incentives as provided by this subchapter. A district must use all money received under this subchapter for a school year in making awards for that year. Sec. 21.653. MINIMUM CRITERIA FOR LOCAL INCENTIVE PROGRAM. (a) A school district may develop a system for rewarding academic improvement and achievement in the district. (b) The commissioner by rule shall establish minimum criteria for local incentive programs. The primary criteria for making awards in a local incentive program under this subchapter must be measures for incremental growth in student achievement. A local incentive program may also consider high levels of student performance on assessment instruments and progress towards proficiency in English. (c) A local incentive program must be adopted through a process that considers comments of classroom teachers in the district. (d) A district that applies for a grant under Section 21.652 must certify that the district has complied with this section and rules adopted under this subchapter. Sec. 21.654. AWARDS. (a) A local incentive program must provide awards to classroom teachers and may provide for awards to other employees. (b) Except as provided by Subsection (c), a school district may not award state money received under this subchapter: (1) in an amount less than $2,500 to an eligible employee for a school year; or (2) to more than 15 percent of district employees, under a local incentive program component that provides campus-level awards. (c) A district may apply to the commissioner for approval of a local incentive program that does not meet the requirements of Subsection (b). The commissioner may not approve a program that makes awards of state funds to more than 40 percent of the employees at a single campus. (d) A district may provide in its employment policy or employment contracts that qualifying employees are entitled to a payment under the local incentive program. This subchapter does not require a district to pay employees an amount exceeding the amount of the grant, if any, that the district receives under Section 21.652. (e) A decision by the board of trustees or the board's designee in making an award under the local incentive program is final and may not be appealed. Sec. 21.655. PREMIUM TEACHER PROGRAM. (a) The commissioner shall develop a system for evaluating classroom teachers for the purpose of awarding individual incentives to premium teachers under this subchapter. The system developed by the commissioner must consider: (1) factors such as a classroom teacher's assignment to: (A) a campus considered low-performing under Section 39.132; or (B) a campus at which 85 percent or more of the students are educationally disadvantaged and that ranks in the lowest quarter of achievement on the campus's most recent accountability ratings; (2) a classroom teacher's supervisor evaluations; and (3) value-added indicators, including student performance. (b) The commissioner's evaluation system must define "premium teacher." (c) Under the program, a premium teacher: (1) is entitled to an annual award of $4,000; (2) may work one extra hour per day; and (3) may be assigned additional duties, such as tutoring, supervising, or planning, for which the district may compensate the teacher. (d) To be eligible for an award under the program, a classroom teacher must: (1) have at least three years of classroom experience; and (2) meet criteria developed by the commissioner related to value-added student achievement. (e) Not more than $10 million may be appropriated for purposes of the program. SECTION 2A.04. Chapter 39, Education Code, is amended by adding Subchapter J to read as follows:
SUBCHAPTER J. STUDENT EXCELLENCE
AND IMPROVEMENT INCENTIVES
Sec. 39.221. DEFINITION. In this subchapter, "at-risk student" means a student considered to be at risk of dropping out of school under Section 29.081(d)(1), (3), (4), (5), (6), (7), (8), (9), (10), (11), (12), or (13). Sec. 39.222. DISTINGUISHED ACHIEVEMENT PROGRAM INCENTIVE. In addition to any other funds to which a school campus is entitled under this code, each school year each campus is entitled to: (1) $1,000 for each student who graduates completing the curriculum requirements, including the additional components and advanced measures, for an advanced high school program as determined under Section 28.025; and (2) an additional $1,000 for each at-risk student who graduates completing the curriculum requirements, including the additional components and advanced measures, for an advanced high school program as determined under Section 28.025. Sec. 39.223. COMMENDED PERFORMANCE INCENTIVE. (a) In this section, "commended performance" means commended performance, as determined by the State Board of Education, on each assessment instrument under Section 39.023(a), (c), or (l) that a student is required to take during a school year. (b) In addition to any other funds to which a school campus is entitled under this code, each school year each campus is entitled to: (1) $100 for each student who achieves commended performance; and (2) an additional $100 for each at-risk student who achieves commended performance. Sec. 39.224. ALGEBRA I INCENTIVE. In addition to any other funds to which a school campus is entitled under this code, each school year each campus is entitled to: (1) $100 for each student who performs successfully on the end-of-course assessment instrument for Algebra I developed under Section 39.023; and (2) an additional $100 for each at-risk student who performs successfully on the end-of-course assessment instrument for Algebra I. Sec. 39.225. DISTRIBUTION AND USE OF FUNDS. (a) Funds distributed under Sections 39.222-39.224 shall be distributed to the school district that contains the school campus entitled to the funds under the applicable section. The funds must be used at the campus entitled to the funds. (b) A school district or campus may use funds distributed under Sections 39.222-39.224 only for academic enhancement purposes. The funds may not be used for any purpose related to athletics and may not be used to substitute for or replace funds already in the regular budget for a district or campus. SECTION 2A.05. Section 822.201(c), Government Code, is reenacted and amended to read as follows: (c) Excluded from salary and wages are: (1) expense payments; (2) allowances; (3) payments for unused vacation or sick leave; (4) maintenance or other nonmonetary compensation; (5) fringe benefits; (6) deferred compensation other than as provided by Subsection (b)(3); (7) compensation that is not made pursuant to a valid employment agreement; (8) payments received by an employee in a school year that exceed $5,000 for teaching a driver education and traffic safety course that is conducted outside regular classroom hours; (9) the benefit replacement pay a person earns as a result of a payment made under Subchapter B or C, Chapter 661; (10) amounts received by or on behalf of [supplemental compensation received by] an employee under Chapter 1580 [Article 3.50-8], Insurance Code; [and] (11) stipends paid to teachers in accordance with Section 21.458, Education Code; (12) amounts received under the educator excellence incentive program under Subchapter N, Chapter 21, Education Code; and (13) any compensation not described in Subsection (b). SECTION 2A.06. Section 21.357, Education Code, is repealed.
PART B. STATE GOVERNANCE
SECTION 2B.01. Subchapter A, Chapter 7, Education Code, is amended by adding Section 7.0041 to read as follows: Sec. 7.0041. COMMISSIONER OR AGENCY RULES. (a) In performing a duty under this code, the commissioner shall adopt rules only if the duty requires an action to be taken by rule. The commissioner or the agency shall otherwise act as required by this code, federal law, or court order without adopting rules under the procedures required by Chapter 2001, Government Code. (b) This section may not be construed as: (1) expanding the authority or duties of the commissioner or the agency; or (2) authorizing the commissioner or agency to perform an educational function reserved to school districts and open-enrollment charter schools under Section 7.003. (c) The commissioner shall develop a procedure allowing, to the extent practicable, school districts, open-enrollment charter schools, parents of public school students, and educational organizations to comment on actions the commissioner or agency proposes to take in performing a duty that does not require the adoption of rules. SECTION 2B.02. Subchapter A, Chapter 7, Education Code, is amended by adding Sections 7.007-7.009 to read as follows: Sec. 7.007. PUBLIC EDUCATION INFORMATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (PEIMS). (a) Each school district shall participate in the Public Education Information Management System (PEIMS) and shall provide through that system information required for the administration of this code. (b) Each school district shall use a uniform accounting system adopted by the commissioner for the data required to be reported for the Public Education Information Management System. (c) Annually, the commissioner shall review the Public Education Information Management System and shall repeal or amend rules that require school districts to provide information through the Public Education Information Management System that is not necessary. In reviewing and revising the Public Education Information Management System, the commissioner shall develop rules to ensure that the system: (1) provides useful, accurate, and timely information on student demographics and academic performance, personnel, and school district finances; (2) contains only the data necessary for the legislature and the agency to perform their legally authorized functions in overseeing the public education system; and (3) does not contain any information related to instructional methods, except as required by federal law. (d) The commissioner's rules must ensure that the Public Education Information Management System links student performance data to other related information for purposes of efficient and effective allocation of school resources. Sec. 7.008. STATEWIDE STUDENT ENROLLMENT, ATTENDANCE, AND ACHIEVEMENT TRACKING SYSTEM. (a) Each school district shall participate in a system meeting standards approved by the commissioner to track each student enrolled in a public school in this state. A student tracking system must: (1) produce detailed reports for agency officials and policymakers and update information on each student's: (A) enrollment; (B) attendance; (C) achievement, including course or grade completion and assessment instrument results; and (D) if applicable, specific reason for leaving a school or school district, such as transferring, graduating, or dropping out of school; and (2) to facilitate the electronic transfer of student records and the evaluation and improvement of educational programs in the state, permit an authorized state or district official to electronically retrieve information about a particular student as necessary. (b) Each school district shall use the student tracking system. (c) The commissioner may solicit and accept grant funds to maintain the student tracking system and to make the system available to school districts. Sec. 7.009. CENTERS FOR EDUCATION RESEARCH. (a) In this section, "center" means a center for education research. (b) The commissioner of education and the commissioner of higher education, in consultation with the State Board for Educator Certification, may establish not more than three centers for education research, including research regarding the impact of federal education programs. (c) A center may be established as part of: (1) the agency; (2) the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board; or (3) a public junior college, public senior college or university, or public state college, as defined by Section 61.003. (d) A center may be operated in accordance with a memorandum of understanding among the commissioner of education, the commissioner of higher education, and the governing board of a public junior college, public senior college or university, or public state college, as defined by Section 61.003. Any memorandum of understanding under this subsection must provide for the center to be under the direct, joint supervision of the commissioner of education and the commissioner of higher education or their designees. (e) In conducting research for the benefit of education in this state, a center may use data on student performance that the center has collected from the agency, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, the State Board for Educator Certification, any public or private institution of higher education, and any school district, including data that is confidential under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (20 U.S.C. Section 1232g). A center shall comply with rules adopted by the commissioner of education and the commissioner of higher education to protect the confidentiality of student information, including rules establishing procedures to ensure that confidential student information is not duplicated or removed from a center in an unauthorized manner. (f) The commissioner of education and the commissioner of higher education may: (1) accept gifts and grants to be used in operating one or more centers; and (2) by rule, impose reasonable fees, as appropriate, on a person who uses a center's research, resources, or facilities. (g) This section does not authorize the disclosure of student information that may not be disclosed under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (20 U.S.C. Section 1232g). (h) The commissioner of education and the commissioner of higher education shall adopt rules necessary to implement this section. SECTION 2B.03. Subchapter C, Education Code, is amended by adding Section 7.060 to read as follows: Sec. 7.060. GIFTS AND GRANTS. The commissioner may accept a gift, donation, or other contribution for the benefit of public education and may use the contribution in accordance with its terms. SECTION 2B.04. Section 7.107(b), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (b) At the board's first regular meeting after the election and qualification of new members: (1) [,] the board shall organize and [,] adopt rules of procedure;[,] and (2) the chair shall, with the advice and consent of the governor, appoint [elect by separate votes] a vice chair and a secretary. SECTION 2B.05. The Texas Education Agency shall study the practicality of modifying the Public Education Information Management System (PEIMS) to permit greater linking of student performance data to all other information submitted under the system on matters that affect student success. Based on the study, the commissioner of education shall develop a plan to improve, over the next five years, the data linkage described by this section. Not later than December 1, 2004, the commissioner shall file with the legislature a report with the commissioner's recommendation for implementing the data linkage described by this section. SECTION 2B.06. Section 7.0041, Education Code, as added by this Act, does not affect the validity of an action taken by the commissioner of education under a rule adopted before the effective date of this Act.
PART C. SCHOOL DISTRICT GOVERNANCE
SECTION 2C.01. Section 11.059, Education Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 11.059. TERMS. (a) A trustee of an independent school district serves a term of [three or] four years. (b) [Elections for trustees with three-year terms shall be held annually. The terms of one-third of the trustees, or as near to one-third as possible, expire each year. [(c)] Elections for trustees [with four-year terms] shall be held on the uniform election date in November [biennially]. The terms of one-half of the trustees, or as near to one-half as possible, expire every two years. (c) [(d)] A board policy must state the schedule on which specific terms expire. SECTION 2C.02. Section 11.163, Education Code, is amended by adding Subsection (d) to read as follows: (d) If, under the employment policy, the board of trustees delegates to the superintendent the final authority to select district personnel: (1) the superintendent is a public official for purposes of Chapter 573, Government Code, only with respect to a decision made pursuant to that delegation of authority; and (2) each member of the board of trustees remains subject to Chapter 573, Government Code, with respect to all district employees. SECTION 2C.03. Section 41.001(d), Election Code, is amended to read as follows: (d) A general election of officers of a city, school district, junior college district, or hospital district may not be held on the February or September uniform election date. A general election of officers of an independent school district may not be held on the February, May, or September uniform election date. SECTION 2C.04. (a) Section 11.059, Education Code, as amended by this Act, applies beginning with a school district trustee election scheduled for 2005. (b) Except as provided by Subsection (c) of this section, a school district trustee election that on the effective date of this Act is scheduled to be held in 2005 or 2006 must be held on November 8, 2005, or November 7, 2006. (c) If, under Subsection (b) of this section, the positions of more than one-half of the trustees or as near to one-half as possible would be scheduled for election on November 8, 2005, or November 7, 2006, the trustees holding those positions shall draw lots to determine, as appropriate, which positions are subject to election in 2005 or 2006 and which are subject to election in 2007 or 2008. (d) To implement the changes made to Section 11.059, Education Code, by this Act, a person may serve a term as school district trustee that is longer than the term for which the person was elected.
PART D. ACCOUNTABILITY
SECTION 2D.01. Section 25.005(b), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (b) A reciprocity agreement must: (1) address procedures for: (A) transferring student records; (B) awarding credit for completed course work; and (C) permitting a student to satisfy the requirements of Section 39.025 through successful performance on comparable end-of-course or other exit-level assessment instruments administered in another state; and (2) include appropriate criteria developed by the agency. SECTION 2D.02. Section 28.025, Education Code, is amended by amending Subsection (c) and adding Subsections (c-1)-(c-3) to read as follows: (c) A person may receive a diploma if the person is eligible for a diploma under Subsection (c-1) or Section 28.0251. In other cases, a student may graduate and receive a diploma only if: (1) the student successfully completes the curriculum requirements identified by the State Board of Education under Subsection (a) and: (A) complies with Section 39.025(a); or (B) scores a three or better on a college advanced placement test, or a four or better on an international baccalaureate examination, in a course in English language arts, mathematics, social studies, or science that is a continuation of a course for which an end-of-course assessment instrument is adopted under Section 39.023(c), and complies with Section 39.025(a) as to each other course for which that section requires satisfactory performance; or (2) the student successfully completes an individualized education program developed under Section 29.005. (c-1) The State Board of Education shall adopt rules under which a student who first enrolls in a public school in this state in the 10th, 11th, or 12th grade may graduate and receive a diploma if the student: (1) successfully completes the course requirements identified by the board; and (2) scores at or above a level determined by the board on the Scholastic Assessment Test II (SAT II) or the American College Test (ACT). (c-2) Notwithstanding Subsection (c-1), a student who is entitled to graduate and receive a diploma under rules adopted under that subsection who takes a course in a public school in this state for which an end-of-course assessment instrument is administered under Section 39.023(c) must take that assessment instrument. (c-3) The State Board of Education shall adopt rules under Subsection (c-1) that apply to students graduating in the 2005-2006 or a later school year. Section 7.102(f) does not apply to rules adopted under Subsection (c-1). This subsection expires July 1, 2006. SECTION 2D.03. Section 29.081(b), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (b) Each district shall provide accelerated instruction to a student enrolled in the district who has taken an end-of-course [the secondary exit-level] assessment instrument administered under Section 39.023(c) and has not performed satisfactorily on the assessment instrument [each section] or who is at risk of dropping out of school. SECTION 2D.04. Section 30.021(e), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (e) The school shall cooperate with public and private agencies and organizations serving students and other persons with visual impairments in the planning, development, and implementation of effective educational and rehabilitative service delivery systems associated with educating students with visual impairments. To maximize and make efficient use of state facilities, funding, and resources, the services provided in this area may include conducting a cooperative program with other agencies to serve students who have graduated from high school by completing all academic requirements applicable to students in regular education, excluding satisfactory performance on the end-of-course [exit-level] assessment instruments required under Section 39.025(a) [instrument], who are younger than 22 years of age on September 1 of the school year and who have identified needs related to vocational training, independent living skills, orientation and mobility, social and leisure skills, compensatory skills, or remedial academic skills. SECTION 2D.05. Sections 39.023(a) and (c), Education Code, are amended to read as follows: (a) The agency shall adopt or develop appropriate criterion-referenced assessment instruments designed to assess essential knowledge and skills in reading, writing, mathematics, social studies, and science. All students, except students assessed under Subsection (b) or (l) or exempted under Section 39.027, shall be assessed in: (1) mathematics, annually in grades three through seven without the aid of technology and in grade [grades] eight [through 11] with the aid of technology on any assessment instruments that include algebra; (2) reading, annually in grades three through eight [nine]; (3) writing, including spelling and grammar, in grades four and seven; (4) [English language arts, in grade 10; [(5)] social studies, in grade [grades] eight [and 10]; (5) [(6)] science, in grades five and[,] eight[, and 10]; and (6) [(7)] any other subject and grade required by federal law. (c) The agency shall also adopt end-of-course [secondary exit-level] assessment instruments for secondary-level courses in Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Integrated Physics and Chemistry, English I, English II, English III, World Geography, World History, and United States History [designed to be administered to students in grade 11 to assess essential knowledge and skills in mathematics, English language arts, social studies, and science. The mathematics section must include at least Algebra I and geometry with the aid of technology. The English language arts section must include at least English III and must include the assessment of essential knowledge and skills in writing. The social studies section must include early American and United States history. The science section must include at least biology and integrated chemistry and physics. The assessment instruments must be designed to assess a student's mastery of minimum skills necessary for high school graduation and readiness to enroll in an institution of higher education]. If a student is in a special education program under Subchapter A, Chapter 29, the student's admission, review, and dismissal committee shall determine whether any allowable modification is necessary in administering to the student an assessment instrument required under this subsection or whether the student should be exempted under Section 39.027(a)(2). The State Board of Education shall administer the assessment instruments. The State Board of Education shall adopt a schedule for the administration of end-of-course [secondary exit-level] assessment instruments. Each student who did not perform satisfactorily on any end-of-course [secondary exit-level] assessment instrument when initially tested shall be given multiple opportunities to retake that assessment instrument. [A student who performs at or above a level established by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board on the secondary exit-level assessment instruments is exempt from the requirements of Section 51.306.] SECTION 2D.06. Subchapter B, Chapter 39, Education Code, is amended by adding Sections 39.0232 and 39.0233 to read as follows: Sec. 39.0232. COMPUTER-BASED ASSESSMENT. (a) The agency shall provide for assessment instruments required under Section 39.023 to be designed so that those assessment instruments can be administered on computers and, to the extent practicable and appropriate, shall require school districts to administer to students the computer-based assessment instruments. (b) The agency shall implement Subsection (a) not later than March 1, 2006. This subsection expires September 1, 2006. Sec. 39.0233. COMPUTER-ADAPTIVE ASSESSMENT. (a) The agency shall develop computer-adaptive diagnostic assessment instruments for subjects for which assessment instruments are adopted under Sections 39.023(a), (c), and (l). An assessment instrument administered under this section may include statistical sampling techniques to measure the full range of skill levels and curriculum. (b) During the 2005-2006 school year, the agency shall administer as a pilot project one or more of the assessment instruments required under Subsection (a). The agency shall report the results of the pilot project to the legislature not later than December 1, 2006. This subsection expires January 15, 2007. SECTION 2D.07. Section 39.025, Education Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 39.025. EXIT-LEVEL PERFORMANCE REQUIRED. (a) Except as otherwise provided by Section 28.025(c), a [A] student may not receive a high school diploma until the student has performed satisfactorily on the following end-of-course [secondary exit-level] assessment instruments for students in secondary grades [English language arts, mathematics, social studies, and science] administered under Section 39.023(c): (1) English III; (2) United States History; (3) two of the following assessment instruments: (A) Algebra I; (B) Algebra II; or (C) Geometry; (4) two of the following assessment instruments: (A) Biology; (B) Chemistry; (C) Physics; or (D) Integrated Physics and Chemistry; (5) one of the following assessment instruments: (A) English I; or (B) English II; and (6) one of the following assessment instruments: (A) World Geography; or (B) World History. [This subsection does not require a student to demonstrate readiness to enroll in an institution of higher education.] (b) Each time an end-of-course [a secondary exit-level] assessment instrument is administered, a student who has not been given a high school diploma because of a failure to perform satisfactorily on the assessment instrument for that subject area may retake the assessment instrument. (c) A student who has been denied a high school diploma under Subsections (a) and (b) and who subsequently performs satisfactorily on each necessary end-of-course [secondary exit-level] assessment instrument shall be issued a high school diploma. (d) Subsection (a) does not require a student to demonstrate readiness to enroll in an institution of higher education. (e) The commissioner shall by rule adopt a transition plan to implement the amendments made by H.B. No. 1, Acts of the 78th Legislature, 4th Called Session, 2004, to Sections 28.025(c), 39.023(a) and (c), and 39.051(b)(5) and this section. The rules must provide for the administration of end-of-course assessment instruments adopted under Section 39.023(c) to begin as soon as practicable but not later than the 2008-2009 school year. During the period under which the transition to end-of-course assessment instruments is made: (1) the commissioner may retain, administer, and use for campus and district ratings under Subchapter D any assessment instrument required by Section 39.023(a) or (c), as that section existed before amendment by H.B. No. 1, Acts of the 78th Legislature, 4th Called Session, 2004; and (2) the agency may defer releasing assessment instrument questions and answer keys as required by Section 39.023(e) to the extent necessary to develop additional assessment instruments. (f) Rules adopted under Subsection (e) must require that each student who will be subject to the requirements of Subsection (a) is entitled to notice of the specific requirements applicable to the student. Notice under this subsection must be provided not later than the date the student enters the ninth grade. Subsection (e) and this subsection expire September 1, 2009. SECTION 2D.08. Subchapter B, Chapter 39, Education Code, is amended by adding Section 39.0261 to read as follows: Sec. 39.0261. COLLEGE PREPARATION ASSESSMENT. (a) To ensure that students are prepared for college-level courses, each school district shall administer a college preparation assessment instrument to students in grades 8, 10, and 12 who are enrolled in courses necessary to complete the curriculum requirements for the recommended or advanced high school program established under Section 28.025(a). An assessment instrument administered under this section must be part of an established, valid, and reliable system of nationally normed and curriculum-based educational planning and achievement assessment instruments with the following characteristics: (1) an integrated series of standards and curriculum-based achievement assessment instruments, with the grade 12 assessment instrument currently accepted by this state's colleges and universities for use in determining admissions; and (2) a common content continuum and score scale in the assessed areas of reading, English, mathematics, and science across the assessment instruments administered at each grade level. (b) The agency shall select and approve vendors of the specific assessment instruments administered under this section. (c) From amounts appropriated for purposes of this section, the commissioner shall make grants to school districts to prepare students for assessment instruments administered under this section. (d) The agency shall compile the results of any assessment instrument administered under this section and make the results available through the Public Education Information Management System (PEIMS). (e) The commissioner shall provide for the implementation of this section not later than the 2006-2007 school year. This subsection expires July 1, 2007. SECTION 2D.09. Subchapter B, Chapter 39, Education Code, is amended by adding Section 39.034 to read as follows: Sec. 39.034. MEASURE OF ANNUAL CHANGE IN PERFORMANCE ON ASSESSMENT INSTRUMENTS. (a) The commissioner by rule shall adopt a method by which the agency may measure any change in a student's performance from one school year to the next on an assessment instrument required under this subchapter. (b) Each year, for each student who takes an assessment instrument required under Section 39.023(a), (b), or (l), the agency shall use the method adopted under Subsection (a) to compare the student's results on the assessment instrument to the student's results on any assessment instrument for that subject the student has taken during the preceding school year. (c) The agency shall maintain a record of the comparisons made under this section and each year shall provide the record to the school the student attends. (d) The commissioner shall implement this section not later than September 1, 2006. This subsection expires January 1, 2008. SECTION 2D.10. Section 39.052(b), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (b) The report card shall include the following information: (1) where applicable, the academic excellence indicators adopted under Sections 39.051(b)(1) through (10) [(9)]; (2) average class size by grade level and subject; (3) the administrative and instructional costs per student, computed in a manner consistent with Section 44.0071; (4) a summary of the district's significant noninstructional expenditures, as determined under Section 44.0072; and (5) [(4)] the district's instructional expenditures ratio and instructional employees ratio computed under Section 44.0071, and the statewide average of those ratios, as determined by the commissioner. SECTION 2D.11. Section 39.202(b), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (b) The system must include uniform indicators adopted by the commissioner by which to measure a district's financial management performance. In adopting uniform indicators, the commissioner shall: (1) identify indicators considered to be critical by the commissioner; and (2) include in the indicators identified under Subdivision (1) an indicator relating to a district's instructional costs. SECTION 2D.12. Subchapter A, Chapter 44, Education Code, is amended by adding Section 44.0072 to read as follows: Sec. 44.0072. NONINSTRUCTIONAL EXPENDITURES. (a) Each fiscal year, a school district shall compute and report through the Public Education Information Management System (PEIMS) to the commissioner: (1) the district's significant noninstructional expenditures for the preceding fiscal year, as determined by the commissioner; and (2) any money spent by the district during the preceding fiscal year on dues or contributions to a noninstructional group, club, committee, organization, or association, including dues or contributions used for the purpose of lobbying. (b) The commissioner may determine, in a manner consistent with Section 44.0071, whether an expenditure is noninstructional. SECTION 2D.13. Section 51.3062(q), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (q) A student who has achieved scores [a score] set by the board on end-of-course assessment instruments [an exit-level assessment instrument] required under Section 39.023 is exempt from the requirements of this section. The exemption is effective for the three-year period following the date a student takes the last assessment instrument required for purposes of this section and achieves the standard set by the board. This subsection does not apply during any period for which the board designates the end-of-course assessment instruments [exit-level assessment instrument] required under Section 39.023 as the primary assessment instrument under this section, except that the three-year period described by this subsection remains in effect for students who qualify for an exemption under this subsection [section] before that period. SECTION 2D.14. Section 39.023(j), Education Code, is repealed. SECTION 2D.15. A reference in the Education Code to an end-of-course assessment instrument administered under Section 39.023(c), Education Code, includes a secondary exit-level assessment instrument administered under that section as provided by Section 39.025(e), Education Code, as added by this Act.
PART E. BILINGUAL EDUCATION AND SPECIAL LANGUAGE PROGRAMS
SECTION 2E.01. Section 28.006(j), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (j) No more than 15 percent of the funds certified by the commissioner under Subsection (i) may be spent on indirect costs. The commissioner shall evaluate the programs that fail to meet the standard of performance under Section 39.051(b)(9) [39.051(b)(7)] and may implement sanctions under Subchapter G, Chapter 39. The commissioner may audit the expenditures of funds appropriated for purposes of this section. The use of the funds appropriated for purposes of this section shall be verified as part of the district audit under Section 44.008. SECTION 2E.02. Section 29.056(g), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (g) A district may transfer a student of limited English proficiency out of a bilingual education or special language program for the first time or a subsequent time if the student is able to participate equally in a regular all-English instructional program as determined by: (1) tests administered at the end of each school year to determine the extent to which the student has developed oral and written language proficiency and specific language skills in both the student's primary language and English; (2) satisfactory performance on the reading or English language arts assessment instrument, as applicable, under Section 39.023(a), with the assessment instrument administered in English, or, if the student is enrolled in the first or second grade, an achievement score at or above the 40th percentile in the reading and language arts sections of an English standardized test approved by the agency; and (3) other indications of a student's overall progress, including criterion-referenced test scores, subjective teacher evaluation, and parental evaluation. SECTION 2E.03. Subchapter B, Chapter 29, Education Code, is amended by adding Section 29.0561 to read as follows: Sec. 29.0561. CONSIDERATION; REENROLLMENT. (a) For the first two school years after a student is transferred out of a bilingual education or special language program under Section 29.056(g), the language proficiency assessment committee shall consider: (1) the total amount of time the student has been enrolled in a bilingual education or special language program; (2) the student's grades each grading period in each subject in the foundation curriculum under Section 28.002(a)(1); (3) the student's performance on each assessment instrument required under Section 39.023(a) or (c); (4) the number of credits toward high school graduation the student has earned, as applicable; and (5) any disciplinary actions taken against the student under Subchapter A, Chapter 37. (b) If, during any grading period during the first two school years after a student is transferred out of a bilingual education or special language program under Section 29.056(g), the student earns a failing grade in a subject in the foundation curriculum under Section 28.002(a)(1), the language proficiency assessment committee shall reevaluate the student to determine if the student should reenroll in the bilingual education or special language program. Based on the reevaluation, the committee may arrange for intensive instruction for the student or may reenroll the student in the program. SECTION 2E.04. Subchapter B, Chapter 29, Education Code, is amended by adding Sections 29.065 and 29.066 to read as follows: Sec. 29.065. MEASURE OF PROGRESS TOWARD ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY. The commissioner by rule shall develop a longitudinal measure of progress toward English language proficiency under which a student of limited English proficiency is evaluated from the time the student enters public school until, for two consecutive school years, the child scores at a specific level determined by the commissioner on the reading or English language arts assessment instrument, as applicable, under Section 39.023(a). The commissioner shall: (1) as part of the measure of progress, include student advancement from one proficiency level to a higher level under the reading proficiency in English assessment system developed under Section 39.027(e) and from the highest level under that assessment system to the level determined by the commissioner under this section on the reading or English language arts assessment instrument, as applicable, under Section 39.023(a); and (2) to the extent practicable in developing the measure of progress, use applicable research and analysis done in developing an annual measurable achievement objective as required by Section 3122, No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (20 U.S.C. Section 6842). Sec. 29.066. BEST PRACTICES. Based on the measure of progress toward English language proficiency under Section 29.065, the commissioner shall determine which school districts offer the most effective bilingual education and special language programs. Using funds appropriated for that purpose, the commissioner shall determine the practices those districts use that result in student progress toward English language proficiency and distribute information concerning those practices to each school district that provides a bilingual education or special language program. SECTION 2E.05. Section 39.051(b), Education Code, as amended by Chapters 433 and 805, Acts of the 78th Legislature, Regular Session, 2003, is reenacted and amended to read as follows: (b) Performance on the indicators adopted under this section shall be compared to state-established standards. The degree of change from one school year to the next in performance on each indicator adopted under this section shall also be considered. The indicators must be based on information that is disaggregated by race, ethnicity, gender, and socioeconomic status and must include: (1) the results of assessment instruments required under Sections 39.023(a), (c), and (l), aggregated by grade level and subject area; (2) dropout rates, including dropout rates and district completion rates for grade levels 9 through 12, computed in accordance with standards and definitions adopted by the National Center for Education Statistics of the United States Department of Education; (3) high school graduation rates, computed in accordance with standards and definitions adopted in compliance with the federal No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (Pub. L. No. 107-110); (4) student attendance rates; (5) the percentage of graduating students who attain scores on the end-of-course [secondary exit-level] assessment instruments required under Subchapter B that are equivalent to a passing score on the assessment [test] instrument required under Section 51.3062 [51.306]; (6) the percentage of graduating students who meet the course requirements established for the recommended high school program by State Board of Education rule; (7) the measure of progress toward English language proficiency under Section 29.065, for students of limited English proficiency, as defined by Section 29.052; (8) the results of the Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT), the American College Test (ACT), articulated postsecondary degree programs described by Section 61.852, and certified workforce training programs described by Chapter 311, Labor Code; (9) [(8)] the percentage of students, aggregated by grade level, provided accelerated instruction under Section 28.0211(c), the results of assessments administered under that section, the percentage of students promoted through the grade placement committee process under Section 28.0211, the subject of the assessment instrument on which each student failed to perform satisfactorily, and the performance of those students in the school year following that promotion on the assessment instruments required under Section 39.023; (10) [(9)] for students who have failed to perform satisfactorily on an assessment instrument required under Section 39.023(a) or (c), the numerical progress of those students on subsequent assessment instruments required under those sections, aggregated by grade level and subject area; (11) [(10)] the percentage of students exempted, by exemption category, from the assessment program generally applicable under this chapter; [and] (12) [(11)] the percentage of students of limited English proficiency exempted from the administration of an assessment instrument under Sections 39.027(a)(3) and (4); (13) the percentage of students in a special education program under Subchapter A, Chapter 29, assessed through assessment instruments developed or adopted under Section 39.023(b); and (14) dropout rates for students who have dropped out of school after being enrolled at any time in a bilingual education or special language program under Subchapter B, Chapter 29. SECTION 2E.06. Sections 39.072(b) and (c), Education Code, are amended to read as follows: (b) The academic excellence indicators adopted under Sections 39.051(b)(1) through (8) [(7)] and the district's current special education compliance status with the agency shall be the main considerations of the agency in the rating of the district under this section. Additional criteria in the rules may include consideration of: (1) compliance with statutory requirements and requirements imposed by rule of the State Board of Education under specific statutory authority that relate to: (A) reporting data through the Public Education Information Management System (PEIMS); (B) the high school graduation requirements under Section 28.025; or (C) an item listed in Sections 7.056(e)(3)(C)-(I) that applies to the district; (2) the effectiveness of the district's programs for special populations; and (3) the effectiveness of the district's career and technology programs. (c) The agency shall evaluate against state standards and shall, not later than August 1 of each year, report the performance of each campus in a district and each open-enrollment charter school on the basis of the campus's performance on the indicators adopted under Sections 39.051(b)(1) through (8) [(7)]. Consideration of the effectiveness of district programs under Subsection (b)(2) or (3) must be based on data collected through the Public Education Information Management System for purposes of accountability under this chapter and include the results of assessments required under Section 39.023. SECTION 2E.07. Sections 39.073(a) and (b), Education Code, are amended to read as follows: (a) The agency shall annually review the performance of each district and campus on the indicators adopted under Sections 39.051(b)(1) through (8) [(7)] and determine if a change in the accreditation status of the district is warranted. The commissioner may determine how all indicators adopted under Section 39.051(b) may be used to determine accountability ratings and to select districts and campuses for acknowledgment. (b) Each annual review shall include an analysis of the indicators under Sections 39.051(b)(1) through (7) [(6)] to determine district and campus performance in relation to: (1) standards established for each indicator; (2) required improvement as defined under Section 39.051(c); and (3) comparable improvement as defined by Section 39.051(c). SECTION 2E.08. Section 39.074(e), Education Code, is amended to read as follows: (e) If an annual review indicates low performance on one or more of the indicators under Sections 39.051(b)(1) through (8) [(7)] of one or more campuses in a district, the agency may conduct an on-site evaluation of those campuses only. SECTION 2E.09. Section 29.056(h), Education Code, is repealed. SECTION 2E.10. (a) Not later than the 2006-2007 school year, the Texas Education Agency shall collect information concerning the measure of progress toward English language proficiency for purposes of Section 39.051(b)(7), as amended by this Act, and the dropout rates for purposes of Section 39.051(b)(14), Education Code, as added by this Act. (b) Not later than the 2007-2008 school year, the Texas Education Agency shall include the measure of progress toward English language proficiency under Section 39.051(b)(7), as amended by this Act, in evaluating the performance of school districts, campuses, and open-enrollment charter schools under Subchapter D, Chapter 39, Education Code.
PART F. SPECIAL EDUCATION PROGRAM
SECTION 2F.01. Subchapter A, Chapter 29, Education Code, is amended by adding Section 29.018 to read as follows: Sec. 29.018. INSTRUCTION REGARDING STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES. The commissioner shall adopt a plan to encourage schools to provide instruction regarding students with physical disabilities, developmental delays, and multiple and severe disabilities. The plan must include instruction at appropriate grade levels, as determined by the commissioner, and may include components relating to character education, community service, and peer assistance programs.
PART G. EFFECTIVE DATE
SECTION 2G.01. (a) Except as otherwise provided by this Act, this article takes effect September 1, 2005. (b) Part C of this article takes effect January 1, 2005.
ARTICLE 3. PROPERTY TAXATION AND LOCAL REVENUE
PART A. LIMITATION ON CERTAIN RESIDENTIAL REAL
PROPERTY APPRAISALS
SECTION 3A.01. Section 1.12(d), Tax Code, is amended to read as follows: (d) For purposes of this section, the appraisal ratio of real property [a homestead] to which Section 23.23 applies is the ratio of the property's market value as determined by the appraisal district or appraisal review board, as applicable, to the market value of the property according to law. The appraisal ratio is not calculated according to the appraised value of the property as limited by Section 23.23. SECTION 3A.02. Section 23.23, Tax Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 23.23. LIMITATION ON APPRAISED VALUE OF CERTAIN RESIDENTIAL REAL PROPERTY [RESIDENCE HOMESTEAD]. (a) The appraised value of qualified residential real property [a residence homestead] for a tax year may not exceed the lesser of: (1) the market value of the property; or (2) the sum of: (A) five [10] percent of the appraised value of the property for the last year in which the property was appraised for taxation times the number of years since the property was last appraised; (B) the appraised value of the property for the last year in which the property was appraised; and (C) the market value of all new improvements to the property. (b) When appraising qualified residential real property [a residence homestead], the chief appraiser shall: (1) appraise the property at its market value; and (2) include in the appraisal records both the market value of the property and the amount computed under Subsection (a)(2). (c) The limitation provided by Subsection (a) takes effect as to a parcel of qualified residential real property [residence homestead] on January 1 of the tax year following the first tax year in which the owner owns [qualifies] the property on January 1 and in which the owner qualifies the property as a residence homestead or uses the property primarily for the owner's residential purposes or, if the property qualifies as the residence homestead of the owner [for an exemption] under Section 11.13 in the tax year in which the owner acquires the property, the limitation takes effect on January 1 of the tax year following that tax year. Except as provided by Subsections (d) and (e), the [. The] limitation expires on January 1 of the [first] tax year following the year in which [that neither] the owner of the property ceases to own the property or ceases to qualify the property as a residence homestead or to use the property primarily for the owner's residential purposes [when the limitation took effect nor the owner's spouse or surviving spouse qualifies for an exemption under Section 11.13]. (d) If qualified residential real property subject to a limitation under Subsection (a) qualifies for an exemption under Section 11.13 when the ownership of the property is transferred to the owner's spouse or surviving spouse, the limitation expires on January 1 of the tax year following the year in which the owner's spouse or surviving spouse ceases to own the property, unless the limitation is further continued under this subsection on the subsequent transfer to a spouse or surviving spouse. (e) If qualified residential real property subject to a limitation under Subsection (a), other than a residence homestead, is owned by two or more persons, the limitation expires on January 1 of the tax year following the year in which the ownership of at least a 50 percent interest in the property is sold or otherwise transferred to a person other than those owners. (f) This section does not apply to property appraised under Subchapter C, D, E, F, [or] G, or H. (g) [(e)] In this section:[,] (1) "New [new] improvement" means an improvement to real property [a residence homestead] that is made after the most recent appraisal of the property [for the preceding year] and that increases the market value of the property. The term does not include ordinary upkeep, repair, or maintenance of an existing structure or the grounds or another feature of the property. (2) "Qualified residential real property" means real property that: (A) qualifies for an exemption under Section 11.13; or (B) is designed or adapted for residential purposes and used primarily for residential purposes by the owner of the property, including the owner-occupied portion of a duplex, triplex, or other multifamily structure and the residential portion, not to exceed 20 acres, of farm or ranch property. (h) [(f)] Notwithstanding Subsections (a) and (g)(1) [(e)] and except as provided by Subdivision (2), an improvement to property that would otherwise constitute a new improvement is not treated as a new improvement if the improvement is a replacement structure for a structure that was rendered uninhabitable or unusable by a casualty or by mold or water damage. For purposes of appraising the property in the tax year in which the structure would have constituted a new improvement: (1) the last year in which the property was appraised for taxation before the casualty or damage occurred is considered to be the last year in which the property was appraised for taxation for purposes of Subsection (a)(2)(A); and (2) the replacement structure is considered to be a new improvement only to the extent it is a significant improvement over the replaced structure as that structure existed before the casualty or damage occurred. (i) For purposes of applying the limitation provided by Subsection (a) in the first tax year after the 2004 tax year in which the qualified residential real property is appraised for taxation: (1) the property is considered to have been appraised for taxation in the 2004 tax year at a market value equal to the appraised value of the property for that tax year; (2) a person who acquired in a tax year before the 2004 tax year residential real property that the person owns in the 2004 tax year is considered to have acquired the property on January 1, 2004; and (3) a person who qualified the property for an exemption under Section 11.13 as the person's residence homestead for any portion of the 2004 tax year is considered to have acquired the property in the 2004 tax year. (j) This subsection and Subsections (k)-(n) do not apply to property that qualifies for a residence homestead exemption under Section 11.13. To receive a limitation under Subsection (a), a person claiming the limitation must apply for the limitation by filing an application with the chief appraiser of the appraisal district. The chief appraiser shall accept and approve or deny an application. For property appraised by more than one appraisal district, a separate application must be filed in each appraisal district to receive the limitation in that district. A limitation provided by Subsection (a), once allowed, need not be claimed in subsequent years and applies to the property until the limitation expires as provided by this section or until the person's qualification for the limitation ends. However, the chief appraiser may require a person allowed a limitation in a prior year to file a new application to confirm the person's current qualification for the limitation by delivering not later than April 1 a written notice that a new application is required, accompanied by an appropriate application form, to the person previously allowed the limitation. (k) The comptroller, in prescribing the contents of the application form for a limitation under Subsection (a), shall ensure that the form requires an applicant to provide the information necessary to determine the validity of the limitation claim. The form must require an applicant to provide the applicant's name and driver's license number, personal identification certificate number, or social security number. The comptroller shall include on the form a notice of the penalties prescribed by Section 37.10, Penal Code, for making or filing an application containing a false statement and shall include on the form a statement explaining that the application need not be made annually and that if the limitation is allowed, the applicant has a duty to notify the chief appraiser when the applicant's qualification for the limitation ends. In this subsection, "driver's license" and "personal identification certificate" have the meanings assigned by Section 11.43(f). (l) A person who is required to apply for a limitation under Subsection (a) to receive the limitation for a tax year must apply for the limitation not later than May 1 of that year. Except as provided by Subsection (m), if the person fails to timely file a completed application, the person may not receive the limitation for that year. (m) The chief appraiser shall accept and approve or deny an application for a limitation under Subsection (a) for a tax year after the deadline for filing the application has passed if the application is filed not later than one year after the delinquency date for the taxes on the property for that tax year. If a late application is approved after approval of the appraisal records by the appraisal review board, the chief appraiser shall notify the collector for each taxing unit in which the property is located. If the tax has not been paid, the collector shall deduct from the person's tax bill the difference between the taxes that would have been due had the property not qualified for the limitation and the taxes due after taking the limitation into account. If the tax has been paid, the collector shall refund the difference. (n) A person who receives a limitation under Subsection (a) shall notify the appraisal office in writing before May 1 after the person's qualification for the limitation ends. SECTION 3A.03. Section 42.26(d), Tax Code, is amended to read as follows: (d) For purposes of this section, the value of the property subject to the suit and the value of a comparable property or sample property that is used for comparison must be the market value determined by the appraisal district when the property is [a residence homestead] subject to the limitation on appraised value imposed by Section 23.23. SECTION 3A.04. Sections 403.302(d) and (i), Government Code, are amended to read as follows: (d) For the purposes of this section, "taxable value" means the market value of all taxable property less: (1) the total dollar amount of any residence homestead exemptions lawfully granted under Section 11.13(b) or (c), Tax Code, in the year that is the subject of the study for each school district; (2) one-half of the total dollar amount of any residence homestead exemptions granted under Section 11.13(n), Tax Code, in the year that is the subject of the study for each school district; (3) the total dollar amount of any exemptions granted before May 31, 1993, within a reinvestment zone under agreements authorized by Chapter 312, Tax Code; (4) subject to Subsection (e), the total dollar amount of any captured appraised value of property that: (A) is within a reinvestment zone created on or before May 31, 1999, or is proposed to be included within the boundaries of a reinvestment zone as the boundaries of the zone and the proposed portion of tax increment paid into the tax increment fund by a school district are described in a written notification provided by the municipality or the board of directors of the zone to the governing bodies of the other taxing units in the manner provided by Section 311.003(e), Tax Code, before May 31, 1999, and within the boundaries of the zone as those boundaries existed on September 1, 1999, including subsequent improvements to the property regardless of when made; (B) generates taxes paid into a tax increment fund created under Chapter 311, Tax Code, under a reinvestment zone financing plan approved under Section 311.011(d), Tax Code, on or before September 1, 1999; and (C) is eligible for tax increment financing under Chapter 311, Tax Code; (5) the total dollar amount of any exemptions granted under Section 11.251, Tax Code; (6) the difference between the comptroller's estimate of the market value and the productivity value of land that qualifies for appraisal on the basis of its productive capacity, except that the productivity value estimated by the comptroller may not exceed the fair market value of the land; (7) the portion of the appraised value of residence homesteads of individuals who receive a tax limitation under Section 11.26, Tax Code, on which school district taxes are not imposed in the year that is the subject of the study, calculated as if the residence homesteads were appraised at the full value required by law; (8) a portion of the market value of property not otherwise fully taxable by the district at market value because of: (A) action required by statute or the constitution of this state that, if the tax rate adopted by the district is applied to it, produces an amount equal to the difference between the tax that the district would have imposed on the property if the property were fully taxable at market value and the tax that the district is actually authorized to impose on the property, if this subsection does not otherwise require that portion to be deducted; or (B) action taken by the district under Subchapter B or C, Chapter 313, Tax Code; (9) the market value of all tangible personal property, other than manufactured homes, owned by a family or individual and not held or used for the production of income; (10) the appraised value of property the collection of delinquent taxes on which is deferred under Section 33.06, Tax Code; (11) the portion of the appraised value of property the collection of delinquent taxes on which is deferred under Section 33.065, Tax Code; and (12) the amount by which the market value of real property [a residence homestead] to which Section 23.23, Tax Code, applies exceeds the appraised value of that property as calculated under that section. (i) If the comptroller determines in the annual study that the market value of property in a school district as determined by the appraisal district that appraises property for the school district, less the total of the amounts and values listed in Subsection (d) as determined by that appraisal district, is valid, the comptroller, in determining the taxable value of property in the school district under Subsection (d), shall for purposes of Subsection (d)(12) subtract from the market value as determined by the appraisal district of real properties [residence homesteads] to which Section 23.23, Tax Code, applies the amount by which that amount exceeds the appraised value of those properties as calculated by the appraisal district under Section 23.23, Tax Code. If the comptroller determines in the annual study that the market value of property in a school district as determined by the appraisal district that appraises property for the school district, less the total of the amounts and values listed in Subsection (d) as determined by that appraisal district, is not valid, the comptroller, in determining the taxable value of property in the school district under Subsection (d), shall for purposes of Subsection (d)(12) subtract from the market value as estimated by the comptroller of real properties [residence homesteads] to which Section 23.23, Tax Code, applies the amount by which that amount exceeds the appraised value of those properties as calculated by the appraisal district under Section 23.23, Tax Code. SECTION 3A.05. This part takes effect January 1, 2005, and applies only to the appraisal for ad valorem tax purposes of residential real property for a tax year that begins on or after that date.
PART B. QUALIFICATION FOR RESIDENCE HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION
SECTION 3B.01. Section 11.42(c), Tax Code, is amended to read as follows: (c) An exemption authorized by Section 11.13 [11.13(c) or (d)] is effective as of January 1 of the tax year in which the person qualifies for the exemption and applies to the entire tax year. SECTION 3B.02. Section 11.43(k), Tax Code, is amended to read as follows: (k) A person who qualifies for an exemption authorized by Section 11.13 [11.13(c) or (d)] must apply for the exemption no later than the first anniversary of the date the person qualified for the exemption. SECTION 3B.03. Section 26.10(b), Tax Code, is amended to read as follows: (b) If the appraisal roll shows that a residence homestead exemption for an individual [65 years of age or older or a residence homestead exemption for a disabled individual] applicable to a property on January 1 of a year terminated during the year and if the owner qualifies a different property for a [one of those] residence homestead exemption [exemptions] during the same year, the tax due against the former residence homestead is calculated by: (1) subtracting: (A) the amount of the taxes that otherwise would be imposed on the former residence homestead for the entire year had the individual qualified for the residence homestead exemption for the entire year; from (B) the amount of the taxes that otherwise would be imposed on the former residence homestead for the entire year had the individual not qualified for the residence homestead exemption during the year; (2) multiplying the remainder determined under Subdivision (1) by a fraction, the denominator of which is 365 and the numerator of which is the number of days that elapsed after the date the exemption terminated; and (3) adding the product determined under Subdivision (2) and the amount described by Subdivision (1)(A). SECTION 3B.04. Section 26.112, Tax Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 26.112. CALCULATION OF TAXES ON RESIDENCE HOMESTEAD [OF ELDERLY OR DISABLED PERSON]. (a) Except as provided by Section 26.10(b), if at any time during a tax year property is owned by an individual who qualifies for an exemption under Section 11.13 [11.13(c) or (d)], the amount of the tax due on the property for the tax year is calculated as if the person qualified for the exemption on January 1 and continued to qualify for the exemption for the remainder of the tax year. (b) If a person qualifies for an exemption under Section 11.13 [11.13(c) or (d)] with respect to the property after the amount of the tax due on the property is calculated and the effect of the qualification is to reduce the amount of the tax due on the property, the assessor for each taxing unit shall recalculate the amount of the tax due on the property and correct the tax roll. If the tax bill has been mailed and the tax on the property has not been paid, the assessor shall mail a corrected tax bill to the person in whose name the property is listed on the tax roll or to the person's authorized agent. If the tax on the property has been paid, the tax collector for the taxing unit shall refund to the person who paid the tax the amount by which the payment exceeded the tax due. SECTION 3B.05. This part takes effect January 1, 2005, and applies only to ad valorem taxes imposed for a tax year that begins on or after that date.
PART C. SALE OF TAX RECEIVABLES
SECTION 3C.01. Subtitle C, Title 8, Local Government Code, is amended by adding Chapter 274 to read as follows:
CHAPTER 274. SALE OF TAX RECEIVABLES
Sec. 274.001. DEFINITIONS. In this chapter: (1) "Date of sale" means: (A) for a sale made through competitive bidding, the date designated by the applicable local government for the submission of bids; and (B) for a sale negotiated by a local government, the date the tax receivable sale and purchase agreement is signed. (2) "Local government" means a county, municipality, school district, special purpose district or authority, or other political subdivision of this state. (3) "Tax receivable" means the right to receive the revenue from: (A) a delinquent ad valorem tax imposed by a local government on real property; and (B) a delinquent assessment or other charge imposed by a local government that is secured by a lien on real property. Sec. 274.002. AUTHORITY TO SELL TAX RECEIVABLES OR UNDIVIDED INTEREST IN TAX RECEIVABLES. (a) At any time, a local government may sell all or any part of its tax receivables, including an undivided interest in all or any part of the receivables. (b) A sale by a local government of a tax receivable under this chapter is a sale and not a borrowing by the local government. (c) The local government shall determine the terms and conditions of a sale of a tax receivable. (d) The sale by a local government of a tax receivable is governed exclusively by this chapter. Sec. 274.003. AMOUNT OF TAX RECEIVABLE; INCLUDED COSTS. The amount of a tax receivable sold under this chapter may include: (1) the original amount of a delinquent ad valorem tax plus the amounts of any penalty and interest that accrued on that delinquent tax under Section 33.01, Tax Code, through the date of sale that remain unpaid on the date of sale; and (2) the original amount of a delinquent assessment or other charge other than a delinquent ad valorem tax plus the amount of any interest that accrued on that assessment or charge and remains unpaid on the date of sale. Sec. 274.004. INTEREST AND PENALTIES ON CERTAIN TAX RECEIVABLES. (a) Except as provided by Subsection (b), interest on a tax receivable sold under this chapter accrues on the total unpaid amount computed under Section 274.003 at the rate of one percent for each month or portion of a month that the tax receivable remains unpaid after the date of sale. (b) After the date of sale of a delinquent ad valorem tax receivable: (1) interest and all penalties, as provided by Chapter 33, Tax Code, continue to accrue on the unpaid original amount of the tax as if the tax receivable had not been sold; and (2) in a suit to collect the delinquent tax, the local government is entitled to recover the court costs and other expenses specified by Section 33.48(a), Tax Code. Sec. 274.005. ENFORCEMENT OF TAX RECEIVABLE. (a) The sale of an ad valorem tax receivable under this chapter does not affect an existing contract for the collection of delinquent taxes under Section 6.30(c), Tax Code, between the local government or an entity acting on behalf of the local government and an attorney. Performance by the attorney under that contract includes the collection of the delinquent ad valorem tax by suit filed on behalf of the local government, by tax sale, or by other means, as if the tax receivable had not been sold. (b) The local government may not: (1) sell an ad valorem tax receivable to a person who controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with a private attorney under contract to collect the related delinquent ad valorem tax entered into under Section 6.30(c), Tax Code; or (2) after the date of sale of an ad valorem tax receivable to a person, enter into a contract under Section 6.30(c), Tax Code, with an attorney who controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with that person. (c) In this section, control of a person includes the direct or indirect ownership of a majority of the voting power of that person. Sec. 274.006. METHOD OF SALE. (a) A sale authorized by this chapter may be made through: (1) competitive bidding; or (2) a negotiated sale. (b) Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, in determining whether and to whom to award a sale of a tax receivable, a local government may take into account any factor the local government considers to be in the best interest of the local government, including the price at which the tax receivable is offered for sale and the terms and conditions of a tax receivable purchase and sale agreement. (c) The local government may enter into negotiations with one or more prospective purchasers to determine the terms and conditions under which a tax receivable is proposed to be sold. Sec. 274.007. SALE THROUGH COMPETITIVE BIDDING. (a) A local government that elects to sell all or part of its tax receivables through competitive bidding shall publish a notice of its intention to sell the tax receivables through competitive bidding. (b) The notice must include: (1) the terms and conditions of the sale; (2) the criteria by which bids will be evaluated; and (3) a description of any other information or documents that the local government may require a bidder to provide. (c) The notice must: (1) identify separately the tax receivables intended to be sold; or (2) state the approximate number and aggregate amount of those tax receivables and that a copy of a list of those tax receivables may be obtained from the local government on request. (d) The notice shall be published in a newspaper of general circulation in the local government not later than the 30th day before the date designated by the local government for the submission of bids. (e) The local government may reject any or all bids or may accept any combination of bids received in a sale conducted through competitive bidding. Sec. 274.008. SALE THROUGH NEGOTIATED SALE. (a) A local government that elects to sell all or a part of its tax receivables through a negotiated sale shall publish a notice of its intention to sell tax receivables through a negotiated sale. (b) The notice must: (1) state that a request for statements of interest to purchase tax receivables is available at the location specified in the notice; and (2) include any requirement by the local government for a person seeking to purchase tax receivables to provide the local government any information or documents. (c) The notice must: (1) identify separately the tax receivables intended to be sold; or (2) state the approximate number and aggregate amount of those tax receivables and that a copy of a list of those tax receivables may be obtained from the local government on request. (d) The notice shall be published in a newspaper of general circulation in the local government not later than the 30th day before the date designated by the local government for the receipt of statements of interest. Sec. 274.009. NOTICE TO AFFECTED PROPERTY OWNERS. (a) A local government may not sell a tax receivable unless the local government notifies the owner of the property associated with the tax receivable, by first class mail sent to the address of record of the owner, of the proposed sale by the local government of the tax receivable. (b) The notice shall be mailed to the property owner not later than the 30th day before the date of sale. (c) The notice must: (1) include a description of the real property associated with the tax receivable, by block and lot or by other means sufficient to identify and locate the property, and may include other identifying information that the local government considers appropriate; (2) state the amount of the tax receivable; and (3) state that the tax receivable associated with the property may be sold as provided by this chapter if the amounts due on the property remain unpaid. (d) The local government may not proceed with the sale of the tax receivable if the property owner pays the full amount of the tax receivable associated with the property before the date of sale of the tax receivable. Sec. 274.010. POSTPONEMENT OR CANCELLATION OF SALE AUTHORIZED. (a) A local government may postpone or cancel any proposed sale of a tax receivable for which notice has been published. (b) A local government is not liable for damages as a result of the postponement or cancellation of a proposed sale of tax receivables and a cause of action does not arise from a postponement or cancellation of a proposed sale. Sec. 274.011. PURCHASE AND SALE AGREEMENTS. (a) A local government may enter into a purchase and sale agreement with the purchaser of a tax receivable sold under this chapter. (b) A purchase and sale agreement may contain any term, provision, condition, representation, or warranty consistent with this chapter that, in the judgment of the local government, is necessary or in the best interest of the local government. (c) A purchase and sale agreement must specify: (1) the purchase price of each tax receivable covered by the agreement, which amount may: (A) be more or less than the face amount of the tax receivable; and (B) include nonmonetary consideration; (2) any other amounts that may be made available to the local government on a contingent basis under the terms of the agreement; and (3) that the local government and the officers, employees, agents, and attorneys of the local government are not liable for damages for any failure to collect the tax receivable, and that a failure to collect the tax receivable does not give rise to a cause of action. (d) A purchase and sale agreement may require the local government to: (1) repurchase a tax receivable, or to substitute another tax receivable of equivalent value, under conditions that may be specified in the agreement; (2) sell to the purchaser subsequent tax receivables associated with the property on substantially the same terms as those on which the initial tax receivable was sold; and (3) use its customary and reasonable efforts to enforce the collection of the tax receivable, as if the tax receivable had not been sold. (e) A purchase and sale agreement may not require the local government to prohibit a person from paying the person's taxes in installments under Section 31.031, 31.032, or 33.02, Tax Code. (f) A purchase and sale agreement may not require a local government that under Section 31.035 or 31.036, Tax Code, permits individuals to perform services in lieu of paying taxes, or that under Section 31.037, Tax Code, permits business entities to provide employees to perform services in lieu of paying taxes, to refrain from entering into a contract under those sections. A local government that enters into such a contract may agree to repurchase any related ad valorem tax receivable. (g) A purchase and sale agreement may not contain any provision that would interfere with the right of an individual to defer or abate a suit to collect a delinquent tax under Section 33.06 or 33.065, Tax Code. The local government may agree to repurchase the related tax receivable if the individual defers or abates the suit. (h) A purchase and sale agreement may not require the local government to demand of its officers, employees, agents, or attorneys a standard of performance of their statutory or contractual duties in the collection of a tax receivable that is different from the customary and reasonable standard of performance required of those persons. Sec. 274.012. TAX RECEIVABLE CERTIFICATES; ISSUANCE AND OPERATION; TRANSFERABILITY. (a) On the sale by a local government of a tax receivable, the local government shall issue to the purchaser a tax receivable certificate evidencing the sale and transfer of the tax receivable to the purchaser. (b) A tax receivable certificate operates to transfer and assign the tax receivable only for: (1) the amount provided by Section 274.003; (2) interest on any unpaid amounts of the tax receivable that accrues under Section 274.004(a) on and after the date of sale to the date of payment; and (3) the amounts of any penalty and interest on the unpaid original amount of an ad valorem tax receivable that accrues under Section 33.01, Tax Code, on and after the date of the sale to the date of payment. (c) Any amount, other than an amount specified by Subsection (b), that may be collected by the local government under Chapter 33, Tax Code, or another law is not transferred or assigned by a tax receivable certificate. Any amount described by this subsection that is collected shall be retained by the local government for distribution in accordance with the applicable law or, if applicable, the terms of a contract entered into under Section 6.30(c), Tax Code. (d) The holder of a tax receivable certificate may transfer the certificate to any other person. (e) Except as otherwise agreed to in a purchase and sale agreement under Section 274.011(d)(1) or (2), the holder of a tax receivable certificate holds the certificate without recourse, in contract, in tort, or otherwise, against the local government or the officers, employees, agents, or attorneys of the local government because of a failure to collect the related tax receivable. Sec. 274.013. CONTENTS OF TAX RECEIVABLE CERTIFICATE. (a) Each tax receivable certificate must contain a transfer and assignment by the local government of the tax receivables transferred to the purchaser and must state: (1) the date of the sale; (2) the aggregate amount of the tax receivables transferred to the purchaser; (3) as separate items, the amounts included in each tax receivable specified in Section 274.003; (4) the rate of interest that accrues on the unpaid amount of the tax receivables; and (5) a description of the real property associated with each tax receivable, by block and lot or by other means sufficient to identify and locate the property. (b) A tax receivable certificate shall be executed by the tax collector for the local government or a person designated by the tax collector and acknowledged in the manner required for a deed to be recorded in this state. (c) A tax receivable certificate may evidence the transfer of more than one tax receivable relating to more than one property. Sec. 274.014. REPLACEMENT TAX RECEIVABLE CERTIFICATES. (a) On application to the collector for a local government accompanied by proof sufficient to show that a tax receivable certificate issued on behalf of the local government under this chapter is lost, the tax collector or a person designated by the tax collector may execute and issue a replacement tax receivable certificate to the applicant or the person entitled to the original replacement certificate. (b) The tax collector for the local government, at the collector's discretion, may require the applicant or other person to post a bond of indemnity in favor of the local government. Sec. 274.015. ENTITLEMENT TO PROCEEDS OF TAX SALE. (a) This section applies to real property associated with a tax receivable sold under this chapter if the property is sold in compliance with an order of sale following a suit for foreclosure of a local government's lien on the property, regardless of whether the suit to foreclose the lien is brought by the local government that sold the tax receivable or by another local government. (b) From the proceeds of a sale of the property under Section 34.01, Tax Code, or of the resale of the property under Section 34.05, Tax Code, the holder of the applicable tax receivable certificate is entitled to receive an amount equal to the amount the local government that sold the tax receivable certificate would otherwise be entitled to receive and retain for its benefit. Sec. 274.016. DUTY OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT TO PAY OVER CERTAIN MONEY. (a) A local government shall promptly pay over to the holder of a tax receivable certificate, or to the person designated in writing by the holder, any money received by the local government in connection with the tax receivable evidenced by the tax receivable certificate. (b) A local government shall pay over to its attorney, including a private attorney retained under a contract entered into under Section 6.30(c), Tax Code, any money received to which the attorney is entitled by virtue of a contract or otherwise, including: (1) attorney's fees and any other amount collected for the benefit of the attorney; and (2) any costs of court and expenses advanced by the attorney. Sec. 274.017. AFFIDAVITS OF PUBLICATION AND MAILING. (a) Each local government that sells a tax receivable under this chapter shall obtain and preserve affidavits of the publication and mailing of all advertisements and notices required by this chapter to be published and mailed. (b) An affidavit of publication and mailing is presumptive proof of the related publication and mailing in any court of this state. Sec. 274.018. PUBLIC INFORMATION. Information collected, assembled, or maintained in connection with the sale of a tax receivable of a local government and in connection with the issuance of a tax receivable certificate under this chapter is public information that is available to the public under Chapter 552, Government Code. Sec. 274.019. CALCULATION OF EFFECTIVE TAX RATE AND ROLLBACK RATE. The officer or employee designated to calculate the effective tax rate and the rollback rate of a local government under Section 26.04(c), Tax Code, may not include the amount of any proceeds received by the local government from the sale of a tax receivable under this chapter in making those calculations. SECTION 3C.02. Section 1.04(6), Tax Code, is amended to read as follows: (6) "Intangible personal property" means a claim, interest (other than an interest in tangible property), right, or other thing that has value but cannot be seen, felt, weighed, measured, or otherwise perceived by the senses, although its existence may be evidenced by a document. The term [It] includes: (A) a stock, bond, note or account receivable, franchise, license or permit, demand or time deposit, certificate of deposit, share account, share certificate account, share deposit account, insurance policy, annuity, pension, cause of action, contract, and goodwill; and (B) a tax receivable under Chapter 274, Local Government Code, or a tax receivable certificate issued under that chapter.
PART D. REAL PROPERTY SALES PRICE DISCLOSURE
SECTION 3D.01. Section 12.001, Property Code, is amended by adding Subsections (e)-(g) to read as follows: (e) An instrument conveying real property may not be recorded under Subsection (a) unless a certificate issued by the chief appraiser of the appraisal district established for the county in which the property is located stating that the sales price disclosure report required by Subchapter D, Chapter 22, Tax Code, has been filed with the chief appraiser is filed with the instrument of conveyance. (f) Subsection (e) does not apply to an instrument conveying real property if the conveyance is made: (1) pursuant to a court order or foreclosure sale; (2) by a trustee in bankruptcy; (3) by a mortgagor or a mortgagor's successor in interest to a mortgagee or by a trustor or a trustor's successor in interest to a beneficiary of a deed of trust; (4) by a mortgagee or a beneficiary under a deed of trust who has acquired the real property: (A) at a sale conducted pursuant to a power of sale under a deed of trust; (B) at a sale pursuant to a court-ordered foreclosure; or (C) by a deed in lieu of foreclosure; (5) by a fiduciary in the course of the administration of a decedent's estate, guardianship, conservatorship, or trust; (6) by one co-owner to one or more other co-owners; (7) to a spouse or to a person or persons in the lineal line of consanguinity of one or more of the transferors; (8) between spouses and results from: (A) a decree of dissolution of marriage; (B) a decree of legal separation; or (C) a property settlement agreement incidental to a decree described by Paragraph (A) or (B); or (9) to or from any governmental entity. (g) The chief appraiser of the appraisal district established for the county in which the property is located and the county clerk by written agreement may establish a procedure for the electronic transfer to the county clerk of the certificate required by Subsection (e). An instrument of conveyance may be recorded under this section without an accompanying paper copy of the certificate required by Subsection (e) if the certificate is electronically transferred to the county clerk by the chief appraiser under a procedure established under this subsection. SECTION 3D.02. The heading to Subchapter C, Chapter 22, Tax Code, is amended to read as follows:
SUBCHAPTER C. [OTHER] REPORTS OF POLITICAL SUBDIVISION ACTIONS
SECTION 3D.03. Chapter 22, Tax Code, is amended by adding Subchapter D to read as follows:
SUBCHAPTER D. REPORT OF SALES PRICE
Sec. 22.61. SALES PRICE DISCLOSURE REPORT. (a) Except as provided by Subsection (d), on the sale of real property the purchaser of the property or a person acting on behalf of the purchaser shall file a sales price disclosure report with the chief appraiser of the appraisal district established for the county in which the property is located. (b) A sales price disclosure report may be filed by facsimile. (c) The sales price disclosure report may be filed with the chief appraiser before the sale of the property closes. If any information required by the sales price disclosure report changes after the report is filed with the chief appraiser, the person who prepared the original report shall prepare, sign, and file with the chief appraiser a supplemental sales price disclosure report updating the information that changed. The supplemental report shall be filed not later than the third day after the date the sale of the property closed. (d) This section does not apply to a sale of real property if the sale is made: (1) pursuant to a court order or foreclosure sale; (2) by a trustee in bankruptcy; (3) by a mortgagor or a mortgagor's successor in interest to a mortgagee or by a trustor or a trustor's successor in interest to a beneficiary of a deed of trust; (4) by a mortgagee or a beneficiary under a deed of trust who has acquired the real property: (A) at a sale conducted pursuant to a power of sale under a deed of trust; (B) at a sale pursuant to a court-ordered foreclosure; or (C) by a deed in lieu of foreclosure; (5) by a fiduciary in the course of the administration of a decedent's estate, guardianship, conservatorship, or trust; (6) by one co-owner to one or more other co-owners; (7) to a spouse or to a person or persons in the lineal line of consanguinity of one or more of the transferors; (8) between spouses and results from: (A) a decree of dissolution of marriage; (B) a decree of legal separation; or (C) a property settlement agreement incidental to a decree described by Paragraph (A) or (B); or (9) to or from any governmental entity. Sec. 22.62. SIGNATURE REQUIRED. A sales price disclosure report must be signed by the purchaser or by the person who prepares the report. Sec. 22.63. REPORT FORMS. (a) The comptroller shall prescribe the form and content of a sales price disclosure report filed under this subchapter. The comptroller shall ensure that each form requires the person preparing the report to provide, at a minimum: (1) the seller's name and address; (2) the purchaser's name and address; (3) information necessary to identify the property and to determine the property's location; (4) the mailing address for tax notices concerning the property; (5) a description of the use of the property at the time of sale; (6) a statement of whether any personal property was included in the sale and, if so, the estimated value of the personal property; (7) the method used to finance the sale; (8) a statement of whether the property was offered for sale to other potential purchasers; (9) a statement of whether the purchaser holds title to any adjoining property; (10) the sales price of the property; (11) the closing date of the sale; and (12) the name and address of the person preparing the report. (b) A form may not require information not relevant to the appraisal of property for tax purposes or to the assessment or collection of property taxes. (c) A person who prepares a sales price disclosure report under this subchapter must: (1) use the appropriate form prescribed by the comptroller; and (2) include all information required by the form. Sec. 22.64. DELIVERY OF CERTIFICATE TO PURCHASER. (a) Except as provided by Subsection (b), not later than the second day after the date the sales price disclosure report is filed with the chief appraiser, the chief appraiser shall provide to the purchaser a certificate stating that the completed sales price disclosure report has been filed. (b) If the chief appraiser and the county clerk of the county in which the property is located have entered into an agreement under Section 12.001(g), Property Code, the chief appraiser may electronically transfer the certificate to the county clerk. A chief appraiser that elects to electronically transfer the certificate shall: (1) transfer the certificate not later than the second day after the date the sales price disclosure report is filed; and (2) notify the purchaser in writing that the certificate has been filed with the county clerk. Sec. 22.65. PUBLICIZING REQUIREMENTS. (a) The comptroller shall publicize, in a manner reasonably designed to come to the attention of title companies, attorneys, and property owners, the requirements of this subchapter and of the availability of sales price disclosure report forms. (b) The Texas Real Estate Commission shall assist the comptroller in publicizing the information required by Subsection (a) to title companies and attorneys. (c) A chief appraiser shall assist the comptroller in publicizing the information required by Subsection (a) to property owners in the county for which the appraisal district is established. Sec. 22.66. CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION. (a) A sales price disclosure report filed with a chief appraiser under this subchapter is confidential and not open to public inspection. The report and the information it contains about specific property or a specific person may not be disclosed to another person other than an employee of the appraisal office who appraises property except as provided by Subsection (b). (b) Information that is confidential under Subsection (a) may be disclosed: (1) in a judicial or administrative proceeding pursuant to a lawful subpoena; (2) to the person who filed the sales price disclosure report, to the owner of the property described in the report, or to a representative of the person who filed the report or the owner who is authorized in writing to receive the information; (3) to the comptroller and the comptroller's employees authorized by the comptroller in writing to receive the information or to an assessor or a chief appraiser if requested in writing; (4) in a judicial or administrative proceeding relating to property taxation: (A) in which the person who filed the sales price disclosure report is a party; (B) in which the owner of the property described in the report is a party; (C) by the appraisal district for the purpose of establishing the value of the property; or (D) for the purpose of providing evidence of comparable sales used to appraise another property; (5) for statistical purposes if the information is provided in a form that does not identify a specific property or a specific property owner; (6) if and to the extent the information is required to be included in a public document or record that the appraisal office is required to prepare or maintain; or (7) to a taxing unit or its legal representative that is engaged in the collection of delinquent taxes on the property that is described in the report. (c) A person, other than a person described by Subsection (b)(2), who legally has access to a sales price disclosure report or who legally obtains the information from a report made confidential by this section commits an offense if the person knowingly: (1) permits inspection of the confidential information by a person not authorized by Subsection (b) to inspect the information; or (2) discloses the confidential information to a person not authorized by Subsection (b) to receive the information. (d) It is a defense to prosecution under Subsection (c) that the person obtained the information from: (1) a person described by Subsection (b)(2); or (2) a record or document lawfully available to the public. (e) An offense under Subsection (c) is a Class B misdemeanor. Sec. 22.67. IMMUNITY FROM LIABILITY. A person who prepares a sales price disclosure report in compliance with this subchapter is not liable to any other person as a result of providing the information required by this subchapter. SECTION 3D.04. (a) Except as provided by Subsection (b) of this section, this part takes effect immediately if this Act receives a vote of two-thirds of all the members elected to each house, as provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas Constitution. If this Act does not receive the vote necessary for immediate effect, this part takes effect on the 91st day after the last day of the legislative session. (b) Sections 3D.01, 3D.02, and 3D.03 of this part take effect January 1, 2005. (c) As soon as practicable after the effective date of this part provided by Subsection (a) of this section, but not later than January 1, 2005, the comptroller of public accounts shall: (1) prescribe or approve sales price disclosure report forms as provided by Section 22.63, Tax Code, as added by this part; and (2) begin to publicize the requirements of Subchapter D, Chapter 22, Tax Code, as required by Section 22.65, Tax Code, as added by this part. (d) This part applies only to a sale of real property that occurs on or after January 1, 2005.
ARTICLE 4. SALES AND USE TAXES
PART A. STATE AND LOCAL SALES AND USE TAXES
SECTION 4A.01. Section 151.051(b), Tax Code, is amended to read as follows: (b) The sales tax rate is 6.75 [6 1/4] percent of the sales price of the taxable item sold. SECTION 4A.02. Subchapter A, Chapter 151, Tax Code, is amended by adding Section 151.0029 to read as follows: Sec. 151.0029. BILLBOARD ADVERTISING SERVICE. (a) "Billboard advertising service" means a service allowing a purchaser to obtain outdoor advertising on a billboard, including the rental of the billboard space. (b) In this section, "billboard" means a sign that: (1) is a separate and fixed structure directly attached to land or a building; (2) is designed to have its content changed at frequent intervals in an economically feasible manner; and (3) is designed to prominently display outdoor advertising that is visible to the occupants of motor vehicles driving by the sign. SECTION 4A.03. Section 151.0038(b), Tax Code, is amended to read as follows: (b) In this section, "newspaper" means a publication that is printed on newsprint, the average sales price of which for each copy over a 30-day period does not exceed $1.50, and that is printed and distributed at a daily, weekly, or other short interval for the dissemination of news of a general character and of a general interest. "Newspaper" does not include a magazine, handbill, circular, flyer, sales catalog, or similar printed item unless the printed item is printed for distribution as a part of a newspaper and is actually distributed as a part of a newspaper. For the purposes of this section, an advertisement is news of a general character and of a general interest. Notwithstanding any other provision of this subsection, "newspaper" includes: (1) a publication containing articles and essays of general interest by various writers and advertisements that is produced for the operator of a licensed and certified carrier of persons and distributed by the operator to its customers during their travel on the carrier; and (2) a publication for the dissemination of news of a general character and of a general interest that is printed on newsprint and distributed to the general public free of charge at a daily, weekly, or other short interval [has the meaning assigned by Section 151.319(f)]. SECTION 4A.04. Section 151.00394(b), Tax Code, is amended to read as follows: (b) "Internet access service" does not include [and the exemption under Section 151.325 does not apply to] any other taxable service listed in Section 151.0101(a), unless the taxable service is provided in conjunction with and is merely incidental to the provision of Internet access service. SECTION 4A.05. Section 151.0101(a), Tax Code, is amended to read as follows: (a) "Taxable services" means: (1) amusement services; (2) cable television services; (3) personal services; (4) motor vehicle parking and storage services; (5) the repair, remodeling, maintenance, and restoration of tangible personal property, except: (A) aircraft; (B) a ship, boat, or other vessel, other than: (i) a taxable boat or motor as defined by Section 160.001; (ii) a sports fishing boat; or (iii) any other vessel used for pleasure; (C) the repair, maintenance, and restoration of a motor vehicle; and (D) the repair, maintenance, creation, and restoration of a computer program, including its development and modification, not sold by the person performing the repair, maintenance, creation, or restoration service; (6) telecommunications services; (7) credit reporting services; (8) debt collection services; (9) insurance services; (10) information services; (11) real property services; (12) data processing services; (13) real property repair and remodeling; (14) security services; (15) telephone answering services; (16) Internet access service; [and] (17) a sale by a transmission and distribution utility, as defined in Section 31.002, Utilities Code, of transmission or delivery of service directly to an electricity end-use customer whose consumption of electricity is subject to taxation under this chapter; and (18) billboard advertising services. SECTION 4A.06. Section 151.308(a), Tax Code, is amended to read as follows: (a) The following are exempted from the taxes imposed by this chapter: (1) oil as taxed by Chapter 202; (2) sulphur as taxed by Chapter 203; (3) motor fuels and special fuels as defined, taxed, or exempted by Chapter 153; (4) cement as taxed by Chapter 181; (5) motor vehicles, trailers, and semitrailers as defined, taxed, or exempted by Chapter 152, other than a mobile office as defined by Section 152.001(16); (6) [mixed beverages, ice, or nonalcoholic beverages and the preparation or service of these items if the receipts are taxable by Chapter 183; [(7)] alcoholic beverages when sold to the holder of a private club registration permit or to the agent or employee of the holder of a private club registration permit if the holder or agent or employee is acting as the agent of the members of the club and if the beverages are to be served on the premises of the club; (7) [(8)] oil well service as taxed by Subchapter E, Chapter 191; and (8) [(9)] insurance premiums subject to gross premiums taxes. SECTION 4A.07. Section 151.315, Tax Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 151.315. WATER. Water, other than water sold in a sealed container with a volume of three gallons or less, is exempted from the taxes imposed by this chapter. SECTION 4A.08. Section 321.501(a), Tax Code, is amended to read as follows: (a) After deducting the taxes that are required to be deposited to the credit of the Texas education fund under Section 25, Article VIII, Texas Constitution, the [The] comptroller shall deposit the taxes collected by the comptroller under this chapter in trust in the separate suspense account of the municipality from which the taxes were collected. SECTION 4A.09. Section 321.503, Tax Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 321.503. STATE'S SHARE. Before sending any money to a municipality under this subchapter the comptroller shall deduct two percent of the amount of the municipality's share of the taxes collected within the municipality during the period for which a distribution is made as the state's charge for its services under this chapter and shall[, subject to premiums payments under Section 321.501(c),] credit the money deducted to the general revenue fund. SECTION 4A.10. Section 322.303, Tax Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 322.303. STATE'S SHARE. Before sending any money to a taxing entity under this subchapter, the comptroller shall deduct two percent of the amount of the taxing entity's share of the taxes collected within the entity area during the period for which a distribution is made as the state's charge for its services under this chapter and shall credit the money deducted to the general revenue fund. SECTION 4A.11. Section 323.501(a), Tax Code, is amended to read as follows: (a) After deducting the taxes that are required to be deposited to the credit of the Texas education fund under Section 25, Article VIII, Texas Constitution, the [The] comptroller shall deposit the taxes collected by the comptroller under this chapter in trust in the separate suspense account of the county from which the taxes were collected. SECTION 4A.12. Section 323.503, Tax Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 323.503. STATE'S SHARE. Before sending any money to a county under this subchapter the comptroller shall deduct two percent of the amount of the county's share of the taxes collected within the county during the period for which a distribution is made as the state's charge for its services under this chapter and shall[, subject to premiums payments under Section 323.501(c),] credit the money deducted to the general revenue fund. SECTION 4A.13. The following provisions of the Tax Code are repealed: (1) Section 151.319; (2) Section 151.320; and (3) Section 151.325. SECTION 4A.14. (a) There are exempted from the taxes imposed by Chapter 151, Tax Code, the receipts from the sale, use, storage, rental, or other consumption in this state of services that became subject to the taxes because of the terms of this part and that are the subject of a written contract or bid entered into on or before the day after the last day of the 78th Legislature, 4th Called Session, 2004. (b) The exemption provided by this section expires January 1, 2007. SECTION 4A.15. This part takes effect January 1, 2005.
PART B. MOTOR VEHICLE SALES AND USE TAX
SECTION 4B.01. Section 152.021(b), Tax Code, is amended to read as follows: (b) The tax rate is 7.75 [6 1/4] percent of the total consideration. SECTION 4B.02. Section 152.022(b), Tax Code, is amended to read as follows: (b) The tax rate is 7.75 [6 1/4] percent of the total consideration. SECTION 4B.03. Section 152.026(b), Tax Code, is amended to read as follows: (b) The tax rate is 10 percent of the gross rental receipts from the rental of a rented motor vehicle for 30 days or less and 7.75 [6 1/4] percent of the gross rental receipts from the rental of a rented motor vehicle for longer than 30 days. SECTION 4B.04. Section 152.028(b), Tax Code, is amended to read as follows: (b) The tax rate is 7.75 [6 1/4] percent of the total consideration. SECTION 4B.05. This part takes effect January 1, 2005.
PART C. BOAT AND MOTOR BOAT SALES AND USE TAX
SECTION 4C.01. Section 160.021(b), Tax Code, is amended to read as follows: (b) The tax rate is 7.75 [6 1/4] percent of the total consideration. SECTION 4C.02. Section 160.022(b), Tax Code, is amended to read as follows: (b) The tax rate is 7.75 [6 1/4] percent of the total consideration. SECTION 4C.03. This part takes effect January 1, 2005.
PART D. ADMISSIONS TAX
SECTION 4D.01. Subtitle E, Title 2, Tax Code, is amended by adding Chapter 163 to read as follows:
CHAPTER 163. ADMISSION TO EVENTS
Sec. 163.001. SALES TAX. (a) A tax is imposed on each sale of an admission ticket to an event described by Section 163.002. (b) The tax rate is $1 on the sale of each ticket. Sec. 163.002. TAXABLE EVENTS. (a) The tax imposed under Section 163.001 applies to an admission ticket purchased to an event as described by this section other than an event exempted under Section 163.003. (b) The tax imposed under Section 163.001 applies to an admission ticket purchased to: (1) a professional athletic or amusement event in this state; (2) a permanently sited theme or amusement park in this state; and (3) a live performance, including a concert, show, reading, or play. Sec. 163.003. EXEMPTION. The tax imposed under Section 163.001 does not apply to an admission ticket purchased to an event: (1) sponsored, produced, or affiliated with: (A) a public or private primary or secondary school; or (B) a public or private institution of higher education in this state, including a public junior college, as defined by Section 61.003, Education Code; or (2) if the net proceeds of the event are used only for a charitable purpose. Sec. 163.004. APPLICATION OF OTHER PROVISIONS OF CODE. Except as provided by this chapter: (1) the tax imposed by this chapter is administered, imposed, collected, and enforced in the same manner as the tax under Chapter 151 is administered, imposed, collected, and enforced; and (2) the provisions of Chapter 151 applicable to the sales tax imposed under Subchapter C, Chapter 151, apply to the tax imposed by this chapter. Sec. 163.005. ALLOCATION OF TAX. The comptroller shall allocate the net revenue from taxes imposed by this chapter to the Texas education fund.
ARTICLE 5. CIGARETTE AND TOBACCO PRODUCTS TAXES
SECTION 5.01. Section 154.021(b), Tax Code, is amended to read as follows: (b) The tax rates are: (1) $70.50 [$20.50] per thousand on cigarettes weighing three pounds or less per thousand; and (2) the rate provided by Subdivision (1) plus $2.10 per thousand on cigarettes weighing more than three pounds per thousand. SECTION 5.02. Section 155.021(b), Tax Code, is amended to read as follows: (b) The tax rates are: (1) 3.44 cents [one cent] per 10 or fraction of 10 on cigars weighing three pounds or less per thousand; (2) $25.80 [$7.50] per thousand on cigars that: (A) weigh more than three pounds per thousand; and (B) sell at factory list price, exclusive of any trade discount, special discount, or deal, for 3.3 cents or less each; (3) $37.84 [$11] per thousand on cigars that: (A) weigh more than three pounds per thousand; (B) sell at factory list price, exclusive of any trade discount, special discount, or deal, for more than 3.3 cents each; and (C) contain no substantial amount of nontobacco ingredients; and (4) $51.60 [$15] per thousand on cigars that: (A) weigh more than three pounds per thousand; (B) sell at factory list price, exclusive of any trade discount, special discount, or deal, for more than 3.3 cents each; and (C) contain a substantial amount of nontobacco ingredients. SECTION 5.03. Section 155.0211(b), Tax Code, is amended to read as follows: (b) The tax rate for tobacco products other than cigars is 40 [35.213] percent of the manufacturer's list price, exclusive of any trade discount, special discount, or deal. SECTION 5.04. This article takes effect January 1, 2005.
ARTICLE 6. BUSINESS TAXES
PART A. FRANCHISE TAX
SECTION 6A.01. (a) Chapter 171, Tax Code, is repealed. (b) Chapter 171, Tax Code, and Subtitle B, Title 2, Tax Code, continue to apply to audits, deficiencies, redeterminations, and refunds of any tax due or collected under that chapter until barred by limitations. (c) The repeal of Chapter 171, Tax Code, by this part does not affect: (1) the status of a corporation that has had its corporate privileges, certificate of authority, or corporate charter revoked, a suit filed against it, or a receiver appointed under Subchapter F, G, or H of that chapter; (2) the ability of the comptroller, secretary of state, or attorney general to take action against a corporation under those subchapters for actions that took place before the repeal; or (3) the right of a corporation to contest a forfeiture, revocation, lawsuit, or appointment of a receiver under those subchapters. SECTION 6A.02. This part takes effect January 1, 2005.
PART B. PAYROLL TAX
SECTION 6B.01. Title 2, Tax Code, is amended by adding Subtitle K to read as follows:
SUBTITLE K. PAYROLL TAX
CHAPTER 251. PAYROLL TAX
Sec. 251.001. DEFINITIONS. In this chapter: (1) "Calendar quarter," "commission," "compensation fund," and "contribution" have the meanings assigned those terms by Section 201.011, Labor Code. (2) "Employer" has the meaning assigned by Subchapter C, Chapter 201, Labor Code. (3) "Wages" means the wages for employment paid by an employer for which a contribution is required under Chapter 204, Labor Code, to the compensation fund. Sec. 251.002. RULES. The comptroller may adopt rules to implement and administer this chapter. Sec. 251.003. TAX IMPOSED. (a) A tax is imposed on each employer for each employee to whom the employer paid wages during a calendar quarter. (b) The tax applies to each employee to whom the employer paid wages during a calendar quarter without regard to whether: (1) the employee is a full-time or part-time employee; or (2) the wages paid were for the entire calendar quarter or a portion of the calendar quarter. Sec. 251.004. RATE. The rate of the tax is, for each employee to whom the employer paid wages during a calendar quarter, the lesser of: (1) 1.25 percent of the wages paid the employee during the calendar quarter; or (2) $125. Sec. 251.005. EXEMPTION FOR GOVERNMENTAL ENTITIES. (a) The tax imposed under this chapter does not apply to a governmental entity. (b) A governmental entity shall file reports under Section 251.011 in the same manner as any other employer. Sec. 251.006. EXEMPTION FOR CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS. The tax imposed under this chapter does not apply to an organization exempt from federal income tax under Section 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 by being listed as an exempt organization in Section 501(c)(3) of the code. Sec. 251.007. TAX NOT DEDUCTED FROM WAGES. An employer may not deduct the tax imposed under this chapter from any wages of the employer's employees. Sec. 251.008. CRIMINAL PENALTY. (a) A person who violates Section 251.007 commits an offense. (b) An offense under this section is a Class A misdemeanor. Sec. 251.009. CIVIL PENALTY. (a) A person who violates Section 251.007 is liable to the state for a civil penalty not to exceed $500 for each violation. Each day a violation continues may be considered a separate violation for purposes of a civil penalty assessment. (b) On request of the comptroller, the attorney general shall file suit to collect the penalty. Sec. 251.010. APPLICATION TO CERTAIN PROVIDERS. (a) The tax imposed under this chapter applies to a person who: (1) is not an employer; and (2) provides employees who perform services in this state, on a part-time or full-time basis, for more than 30 days in a calendar quarter. (b) For purposes of this section, the person is an employer and all wages paid to the employees are wages for which a contribution is required under Chapter 204, Labor Code. Sec. 251.011. REPORTS AND PAYMENT. (a) Each employer shall, on or before the last day of the month immediately following each calendar quarter for which the employer is required to pay a contribution under Chapter 204, Labor Code: (1) file with the comptroller: (A) a copy of any report required by the commission for determining the amount of the contribution required for any wages paid by the employer to each of the employer's employees during that calendar quarter; and (B) any other information required by the comptroller on a form prescribed by the comptroller; and (2) pay to the comptroller the tax due under this chapter. (b) A provider to which the tax applies under Section 251.010 shall, on or before the last day of the month immediately following each calendar quarter for which the tax applies to the provider: (1) file with the comptroller any information required by the comptroller on a form prescribed by the comptroller; and (2) pay to the comptroller the tax due under this chapter. Sec. 251.012. DISPOSITION OF PROCEEDS. All proceeds from the collection of the taxes imposed under this chapter shall be deposited to the credit of the general revenue fund. SECTION 6B.02. This part takes effect January 1, 2005.
PART C. TAX ENFORCEMENT
SECTION 6C.01. Chapter 111, Tax Code, is amended by adding Subchapter H to read as follows:
SUBCHAPTER H. FORFEITURE OF RIGHT TO TRANSACT BUSINESS IN THIS STATE
Sec. 111.401. APPLICABILITY OF SUBCHAPTER. This subchapter applies to a taxpayer that is a corporation, banking corporation, limited liability company, state or federal savings and loan association, and any other kind of business association, company, joint venture, partnership, or other combination of entities or persons engaged in business that qualifies under the law of this state for liability limitations for its owners or shareholders that are substantially equivalent to those for a corporation. Sec. 111.402. APPLICATION TO NONCORPORATE ENTITIES. (a) The comptroller may, for the same reasons and using the same procedures the comptroller uses in relation to the forfeiture of the corporate privileges of a corporation, forfeit the right to transact business in this state of another entity to which this subchapter applies that is subject to a tax imposed by this title. (b) The comptroller may, for the same reasons and using the same procedures the comptroller uses in relation to the forfeiture of a corporation's charter or certificate of authority, forfeit the certificate or registration of another entity to which this subchapter applies that is subject to a tax imposed by this title. (c) The provisions of this subchapter, including Section 111.407, that apply to the forfeiture of a corporation's corporate privileges and charter or certificate of authority apply to the forfeiture of another entity's right to transact business in this state and certificate or registration. Sec. 111.403. FORFEITURE OF CORPORATE PRIVILEGES. The comptroller shall forfeit the corporate privileges of a corporation on which a tax is imposed under this title if the corporation: (1) does not file, in accordance with this title and on or before the 45th day after the date notice of forfeiture is mailed, a report required by this title; or (2) does not pay, on or before the 45th day after the date notice of forfeiture is mailed, a tax imposed under this title or does not pay, on or before the 45th day, a penalty imposed relating to that tax. Sec. 111.404. EFFECTS OF FORFEITURE. If the corporate privileges of a corporation are forfeited under this subchapter: (1) the corporation shall be denied the right to sue or defend in a court of this state; and (2) each director or officer of the corporation is liable for a debt of the corporation as provided by Section 111.407. Sec. 111.405. SUIT ON CAUSE OF ACTION ARISING BEFORE FORFEITURE. In a suit against a corporation on a cause of action arising before the forfeiture of the corporate privileges of the corporation, affirmative relief may not be granted to the corporation unless its corporate privileges are revived under this subchapter. Sec. 111.406. EXCEPTION TO FORFEITURE. The forfeiture of the corporate privileges of a corporation does not apply to the privilege to defend in a suit to forfeit the corporation's charter or certificate of authority. Sec. 111.407. LIABILITY OF DIRECTOR AND OFFICERS. (a) If the corporate privileges of a corporation are forfeited for the failure to file a report or pay a tax or penalty imposed under this title, each director or officer of the corporation is liable for each debt of the corporation that is created or incurred in this state after the date on which the report, tax, or penalty is due and before the corporate privileges are revived. The liability includes liability for any tax or penalty imposed under this title on the corporation that becomes due and payable after the date of the forfeiture. (b) The liability of a director or officer is in the same manner and to the same extent as if the director or officer were a partner and the corporation were a partnership. (c) A director or officer is not liable for a debt of the corporation if the director or officer shows that the debt was created or incurred: (1) over the director's objection; or (2) without the director's knowledge and that the exercise of reasonable diligence to become acquainted with the affairs of the corporation would not have revealed the intention to create the debt. (d) If a corporation's charter or certificate of authority and its corporate privileges are forfeited and revived under this subchapter, the liability under this section of a director or officer of the corporation is not affected by the revival of the charter or certificate and the corporate privileges. Sec. 111.408. NOTICE OF FORFEITURE. (a) If the comptroller proposes to forfeit the corporate privileges of a corporation, the comptroller shall notify the corporation that the forfeiture will occur without a judicial proceeding unless the corporation: (1) files, within the time established by Section 111.403, the report to which that section refers; or (2) pays, within the time established by Section 111.403, the delinquent tax and penalty to which that section refers. (b) The notice shall be written or printed and shall be verified by the seal of the comptroller's office. (c) The comptroller shall mail the notice to the corporation not later than the 45th day before the forfeiture of corporate privileges. The notice shall be addressed to the corporation and mailed to the address named in the corporation's charter as its principal place of business or to another known place of business of the corporation. (d) The comptroller shall keep at the comptroller's office a record of the date on which the notice is mailed. For the purposes of this subchapter, the notice and the record of the mailing date constitute legal and sufficient notice of the forfeiture. Sec. 111.409. JUDICIAL PROCEEDING NOT REQUIRED FOR FORFEITURE. The forfeiture of the corporate privileges of a corporation is effected by the comptroller without a judicial proceeding. Sec. 111.410. REVIVAL OF CORPORATE PRIVILEGES. The comptroller shall revive the corporate privileges of a corporation if the corporation, before the forfeiture of its charter or certificate of authority, pays any tax, penalty, or interest due under this title. Sec. 111.411. BANKING CORPORATIONS AND SAVINGS AND LOAN ASSOCIATIONS. (a) Except as provided by Subsection (b), this subchapter does not apply to a banking corporation that is organized under the laws of this state or under federal law and has its main office in this state. (b) The banking commissioner shall appoint a conservator under Subtitle A, Title 3, Finance Code, to pay the tax of a banking corporation that is organized under the laws of this state and that the commissioner certifies as being delinquent in the payment of the corporation's tax. Sec. 111.412. SAVINGS AND LOAN ASSOCIATION. (a) Except as provided by Subsection (b), this subchapter does not apply to a savings and loan association that is organized under the laws of this state or under federal law and has its main office in this state. (b) The savings and loan commissioner shall appoint a conservator under Subtitle B or C, Title 3, Finance Code, to pay the tax of a savings and loan association that is organized under the laws of this state and that the commissioner certifies as being delinquent in the payment of the association's tax. Sec. 111.413. GROUNDS FOR FORFEITURE OF CHARTER OR CERTIFICATE OF AUTHORITY. It is a ground for the forfeiture of a corporation's charter or certificate of authority if the corporate privileges of the corporation are forfeited under this subchapter and the corporation does not pay, on or before the 120th day after the date the corporate privileges are forfeited, the amount necessary for the corporation to revive under this subchapter its corporate privileges. Sec. 111.414. CERTIFICATION BY COMPTROLLER. After the 120th day after the date the corporate privileges of a corporation are forfeited under this subchapter, the comptroller shall certify the name of the corporation to the attorney general and the secretary of state. Sec. 111.415. SUIT FOR JUDICIAL FORFEITURE. On receipt of the comptroller's certification, the attorney general shall bring suit to forfeit the charter or certificate of authority of a corporation if a ground exists for the forfeiture of the charter or certificate. Sec. 111.416. RECORD OF JUDICIAL FORFEITURE. (a) If a district court forfeits a corporation's charter or certificate of authority under this subchapter, the clerk of the court shall promptly mail to the secretary of state a certified copy of the court's judgment. On receipt of the copy of the judgment, the secretary of state shall inscribe on the corporation's record at the secretary's office the words "Judgment of Forfeiture" and the date of the judgment. (b) If a court forfeits a corporation's charter or certificate of authority under this subchapter, the court may appoint a receiver for the corporation and may administer the receivership under the laws relating to receiverships. (c) If an appeal of the judgment is perfected, the clerk of the court shall promptly certify to the secretary of state that the appeal has been perfected. On receipt of the certification, the secretary of state shall inscribe on the corporation's record at the secretary's office the word "Appealed" and the date on which the appeal was perfected. (d) If final disposition of an appeal is made, the clerk of the court making the disposition shall promptly certify to the secretary of state the type of disposition made and the date of the disposition. On receipt of the certification, the secretary of state shall inscribe on the corporation's record at the secretary's office a brief note of the type of final disposition made and the date of the disposition. Sec. 111.417. REVIVAL OF CHARTER OR CERTIFICATE OF AUTHORITY AFTER JUDICIAL FORFEITURE. A corporation whose charter or certificate of authority is judicially forfeited under this subchapter is entitled to have its charter or certificate revived and to have its corporate privileges revived if: (1) the corporation files each report that is required by this title and that is delinquent; (2) the corporation pays the tax, penalty, and interest that is imposed under this title and that is due at the time the suit under Section 111.418 to set aside forfeiture is filed; and (3) the forfeiture of the corporation's charter or certificate is set aside in a suit under Section 111.418. Sec. 111.418. SUIT TO SET ASIDE JUDICIAL FORFEITURE. If a corporation's charter or certificate of authority is judicially forfeited under this subchapter, a stockholder, director, or officer of the corporation at the time of the forfeiture of the charter or certificate or of the corporate privileges of the corporation may bring suit in a district court of Travis County in the name of the corporation to set aside the forfeiture of the charter or certificate. The suit must be in the nature of a bill of review. The secretary of state and attorney general must be made defendants in the suit. Sec. 111.419. RECORD OF SUIT TO SET ASIDE JUDICIAL FORFEITURE. If a court under this subchapter sets aside the forfeiture of a corporation's charter or certificate of authority, the secretary of state shall inscribe on the corporation's record in the secretary's office the words "Charter Revived by Court Order" or "Certificate Revived by Court Order," a citation to the suit, and the date of the court's judgment. Sec. 111.420. CORPORATE PRIVILEGES AFTER JUDICIAL FORFEITURE IS SET ASIDE. If a court under this subchapter sets aside the forfeiture of a corporation's charter or certificate of authority, the comptroller shall revive the corporate privileges of the corporation and shall inscribe on the corporation's record in the comptroller's office a note of the revival. Sec. 111.421. FORFEITURE BY SECRETARY OF STATE. The secretary of state may forfeit the charter or certificate of authority of a corporation if: (1) the secretary receives the comptroller's certification under Section 111.414; (2) the corporation does not revive its forfeited corporate privileges on or before the 120th day after the date that the corporate privileges were forfeited; and (3) the corporation does not have assets from which a judgment for any tax, penalty, or court costs imposed by this title may be satisfied. Sec. 111.422. JUDICIAL PROCEEDING NOT REQUIRED FOR FORFEITURE BY SECRETARY OF STATE. The forfeiture by the secretary of state of a corporation's charter or certificate of authority under this subchapter is effected without a judicial proceeding. Sec. 111.423. RECORD OF FORFEITURE BY SECRETARY OF STATE. The secretary of state shall effect a forfeiture of a corporation's charter or certificate of authority under this subchapter by inscribing on the corporation's record in the secretary's office the words "Charter Forfeited" or "Certificate Forfeited," the date on which this inscription is made, and a citation to this subchapter as authority for the forfeiture. Sec. 111.424. REVIVAL OF CHARTER OR CERTIFICATE OF AUTHORITY AFTER FORFEITURE BY SECRETARY OF STATE. A corporation whose charter or certificate of authority is forfeited under this subchapter by the secretary of state is entitled to have its charter or certificate revived and to have its corporate privileges revived if: (1) the corporation files each report that is required by this title and that is delinquent; (2) the corporation pays the tax, penalty, and interest that is imposed by this title and that is due at the time the request under Section 111.425 to set aside forfeiture is made; and (3) the forfeiture of the corporation's charter or certificate is set aside in a proceeding under Section 111.425. Sec. 111.425. PROCEEDING TO SET ASIDE FORFEITURE BY SECRETARY OF STATE. (a) If a corporation's charter or certificate of authority is forfeited under this subchapter by the secretary of state, a stockholder, director, or officer of the corporation at the time of the forfeiture of the charter or certificate or of the corporate privileges of the corporation may request in the name of the corporation that the secretary of state set aside the forfeiture of the charter or certificate. (b) If a request is made, the secretary of state shall determine if each delinquent report has been filed and any delinquent tax, penalty, or interest has been paid. If each report has been filed and the tax, penalty, or interest has been paid, the secretary shall set aside the forfeiture of the corporation's charter or certificate of authority. Sec. 111.426. CORPORATE PRIVILEGES AFTER FORFEITURE BY SECRETARY OF STATE IS SET ASIDE. If the secretary of state sets aside under this subchapter the forfeiture of a corporation's charter or certificate of authority, the comptroller shall revive the corporate privileges of the corporation. Sec. 111.427. USE OF CORPORATE NAME AFTER REVIVAL OF CHARTER OR CERTIFICATE OF AUTHORITY. If a corporation's charter or certificate of authority is forfeited under this subchapter by the secretary of state and if the corporation requests the secretary to set aside the forfeiture under Section 111.425, the corporation shall determine from the secretary whether the corporation's name is available for use. If the name is not available, the corporation shall amend its charter or certificate to change its name. SECTION 6C.02. This part takes effect January 1, 2005.
ARTICLE 7. TELECOMMUNICATIONS INFRASTRUCTURE FUND
SECTION 7.01. Section 57.048, Utilities Code, is amended by amending Subsections (c) and (d) and adding Subsections (f)-(i) to read as follows: (c) The total amount deposited to the credit of the fund, excluding interest and loan repayments, may not exceed $2 [$1.75] billion. Not later than August 31 of each year, the comptroller shall determine the total amount, excluding interest and loan repayments, that has been deposited to the credit of the fund during that fiscal year and the preceding fiscal years. If the comptroller determines that a total of $1.75 [$1.5] billion or more, excluding interest and loan repayments, has been deposited to the credit of the fund, the comptroller shall impose the assessment during the next fiscal year at a rate that the comptroller estimates is sufficient to produce the amount necessary to result in the deposit in the fund of a total of not more than $2 [$1.75] billion, excluding interest and loan repayments. (d) The comptroller may not collect the assessment during a fiscal year if the comptroller determines after the yearly review that the total amount deposited to the credit of the fund during that fiscal year and the preceding fiscal years is $1.99 [$1.74] billion or more, excluding interest and loan repayments, and it is not possible to impose the assessment during the next fiscal year at a practical rate without collecting more than a total of $2 [$1.75] billion, excluding interest and loan repayments. (f) Notwithstanding any other provision of this title, a certificated telecommunications utility may recover from the utility's customers an assessment imposed on the utility under this subchapter after the total amount deposited to the credit of the fund, excluding interest and loan repayments, is equal to $1.5 billion, as determined by the comptroller. A certificated telecommunications utility may recover only the amount of the assessment imposed after the total amount deposited to the credit of the fund, excluding interest and loan repayments, is equal to $1.5 billion, as determined by the comptroller. The utility may recover the assessment through a monthly billing process. (g) The comptroller shall publish in the Texas Register the date on which the total amount deposited to the credit of the fund, excluding interest and loan repayments, is equal to $1.5 billion. (h) Not later than February 15 of each year, a certificated telecommunications utility that wants to recover the assessment under Subsection (f) shall file with the commission an affidavit or affirmation stating the amount that the utility paid to the comptroller under this section during the previous calendar year and the amount the utility recovered from its customers in cumulative payments during that year. (i) The commission shall maintain the confidentiality of information the commission receives under this section that is claimed to be confidential for competitive purposes. The confidential information is exempt from disclosure under Chapter 552, Government Code. SECTION 7.02. Section 57.051, Utilities Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 57.051. SUNSET PROVISION. The Telecommunications Infrastructure Fund [Board] is subject to Chapter 325, Government Code (Texas Sunset Act). Unless continued in existence as provided by that chapter, [the board is abolished and] this subchapter expires September 1, 2007 [2005]. SECTION 7.03. (a) This article takes effect on the date the constitutional amendment proposed by H.J.R. No. 1, 78th Legislature, 4th Called Session, 2004, takes effect. (b) If, on the effective date of this article, the assessment prescribed by Section 57.048, Utilities Code, is imposed at a rate of less than 1.25 percent, the comptroller shall, effective January 1, 2005, reset the rate of the assessment to 1.25 percent.
ARTICLE 8. [Reserved]
ARTICLE 9. VIDEO LOTTERY
SECTION 9.01. Section 466.002, Government Code, is amended by amending Subdivisions (2)-(10) and adding Subdivisions (11)-(36) to read as follows: (2) "Communication technology" means the methods used and the components employed to facilitate the transmission of information, including transmission and reception systems that transmit information through wire, cable, radio, microwave, light, optics, or computer data networks. (3) "Director" means a [the] director employed by the executive director under Section 467.033 [of the division]. (4) "Disable" with respect to video lottery terminals means the process that causes a video lottery terminal to cease functioning on issuance of a shutdown command from the video lottery central system. (5) "Distribute" means the sale, lease, marketing, offer, or other disposition of a video lottery terminal, the electronic computer components of a video lottery terminal, the cabinet in which a video lottery terminal is housed, video lottery equipment, or video lottery game software intended for use or play in this state or on Indian lands in this state. (6) [(3)] "Division" means the lottery division established by the commission under Chapter 467. (7) "Electronic storage medium," with respect to video lottery, means the electronic medium on which the operation software for a game playable on a video lottery terminal is stored that is in the form of erasable programmable read only memory, compact disc-read only memory, flash random access memory, or other technology medium the commission approves for use in a video lottery terminal. (8) [(4)] "Executive director" means the executive director of the commission. (9) "Gaming agreement" means an agreement authorized under Subchapter K between this state and a federally recognized Indian tribe under which this state permits the tribe to conduct limited gaming activities authorized under this chapter or applicable federal law. (10) "House-banked game" means a game of chance: (A) in which the house plays as a participant; (B) in which the house takes on all players, collects from all losers, and pays all winners; and (C) that the house has an opportunity to win. (11) "Indian lands" has the meaning assigned to that term by Section 47(f), Article III, Texas Constitution. (12) "Institutional investor" means: (A) a state or federal government pension plan; or (B) any of the following that meets the requirements of a "qualified institutional buyer" as defined in Rule 144A, Securities Act of 1933 (15 U.S.C. Sections 77a-77aa), and the rules and regulations adopted under that rule by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission: (i) a bank as defined by Section 3(a)(6), Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (15 U.S.C. Sections 78a-78kk), and the rules and regulations adopted under that act by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission; (ii) an insurance company as defined by Section 2(a)(17), Investment Company Act of 1940 (15 U.S.C. Section 80a-1 et seq.); (iii) an investment company registered under Section 8, Investment Company Act of 1940 (15 U.S.C. Section 80a-1 et seq.); (iv) an employee benefit plan or pension fund subject to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (29 U.S.C. Section 1001 et seq.), excluding an employee benefit plan or pension fund sponsored by a publicly traded corporation registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission; (v) a group composed entirely of persons specified by this subdivision; or (vi) any other person the commission recognizes as an institutional investor for reasons consistent with the policies expressed in this chapter. (13) [(5)] "Lottery" means the state lottery established and operated in accordance with the Texas Constitution under this chapter and includes the operation of a state-controlled video lottery system [procedures operated by the state under this chapter through which prizes are awarded or distributed by chance among persons who have paid, or unconditionally agreed to pay, for a chance or other opportunity to receive a prize]. (14) [(6)] "Lottery game" means an activity conducted lawfully and in accordance with the Texas Constitution and this chapter that is controlled by this state as part of the lottery and through which prizes are awarded or distributed by chance to persons who have paid or unconditionally agreed to pay, or who otherwise participate in a game, for a chance or other opportunity to receive a prize [includes a lottery activity]. (15) [(7)] "Lottery operator" means a person selected under Section 466.014(b) to operate a lottery game. (16) "Manufacture," with respect to video lottery, means to design, assemble, fabricate, produce, program, or make modifications to a video lottery terminal, the electronic computer components of a video lottery terminal, the cabinet in which a video lottery terminal is housed, video lottery equipment, or video lottery game software intended for use or play in this state or on Indian lands in this state. (17) "Net terminal income" means the total amount of money paid to play video lottery games less the value of all credits redeemed for money, including any progressive prizes, by the players of the video lottery games. The costs associated with progressive prizes may not be deducted from the total amount of money paid to play the video lottery games for purposes of determining net terminal income. Promotional prizes offered by a video lottery retailer or video lottery manager may not be deducted or otherwise considered credits redeemed for money by players for the purpose of determining net terminal income. (18) "Pari-mutuel license holder" means a person licensed to conduct wagering on a greyhound race or a horse race under the Texas Racing Act (Article 179e, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes). (19) "Person" means, for purposes of video lottery operations, any natural person, corporation, association, trust, partnership, limited partnership, joint venture, subsidiary, or other entity, regardless of its form, structure, or nature. (20) [(8)] "Player" means a person who contributes any part of the consideration for a ticket or to play a video lottery game under this chapter. (21) "Racetrack" means a racetrack as defined by Section 1.03(25), Texas Racing Act (Article 179e, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes). As related to horse racetracks, the term includes only a Class I or Class II racetrack that held a pari-mutuel license on May 1, 2004, at a location licensed on that date and conducted at least 20 live racing days in 2003 and that annually conducts at least the same number of live racing days as the racetrack conducted in 2003 in accordance with rules and procedures of the Texas Racing Commission. As related to greyhound racetracks, the term includes only a racetrack that held a pari-mutuel license on May 1, 2004, at a location licensed on that date and conducted at least 20 live racing days in 2003 and that annually conducts at least the same number of live racing days as the racetrack conducted in 2003 in accordance with rules and procedures of the Texas Racing Commission. (22) [(9)] "Sales agent" or "sales agency" means a person licensed under this chapter to sell tickets. (23) "Slot machine" means a mechanical, electrical, or other type of device, contrivance, or machine that, on insertion of a coin, currency, token, or similar object or on payment of any other consideration, is available to play or operate, and that is not connected to the video lottery central system, and the play or operation of which, through the skill of the operator, by chance, or both, may deliver or entitle the person playing or operating the machine to receive cash, premiums, merchandise, tokens, or any other thing of value, whether the payoff is made automatically from the machine or in any other manner. The term does not include any equipment, machine, technological aid, or other device in connection with the play of bingo under Chapter 2001, Occupations Code. (24) "Substantial interest holder" means: (A) a person who directly, indirectly, or beneficially owns any interest in a privately owned corporation, association, trust, partnership, limited partnership, joint venture, subsidiary, or other entity, regardless of its form, structure, or nature; (B) a person who directly, indirectly, or beneficially owns 10 percent or more of any publicly owned corporation, association, trust, partnership, limited partnership, joint venture, subsidiary, or other entity, regardless of its form, structure, or nature; (C) a person associated with an applicant or license holder who the commission determines has the power or authority to: (i) control the activities of the applicant or license holder; or (ii) elect or select the executive director, the managers, the partners, or a majority of the board of directors of the applicant or license holder; and (D) any key personnel of a video lottery retailer or video lottery manager, including an executive director, officer, director, manager, member, partner, limited partner, executive, employee, or agent, who the commission determines has the power to exercise significant influence over decisions concerning any part of the applicant's or license holder's business operation. A substantial interest holder does not include a bona fide lender, bank, or other authorized or licensed lending institution that holds a mortgage or other lien acquired in the ordinary course of business or a vendor of the applicant or license holder that is not otherwise a substantial interest holder. (25) [(10)] "Ticket" means any tangible evidence issued to provide participation in a lottery game authorized by this chapter. The term does not include a ticket for play of a video lottery game. (26) "Video lottery central system" means the system of procedures and facilities operated and controlled by the commission that links together all video lottery terminals operated in this state and allows the commission to continuously monitor the activity of each video lottery terminal and to disable any video lottery terminal in this state. (27) "Video lottery central system provider" means a person that, by contract with the commission, provides the video lottery central system. (28) "Video lottery equipment" means: (A) a video lottery terminal; or (B) equipment, components, or contrivances used remotely or directly in connection with a video lottery terminal to: (i) affect the reporting of gross revenue and other accounting information, including a device for weighing and counting money; (ii) connect video lottery terminals together for accounting or wide-area prize or promotional purposes; (iii) monitor video lottery terminal operations; (iv) provide for the connection of video lottery terminals to the video lottery central system; and (v) any other communications technology or equipment necessary for the operation of a video lottery terminal. (29) "Video lottery game" means an electronically simulated game owned, approved, and controlled by the commission the outcome of which is determined solely by chance based on a computer-generated random selection of winning combinations of symbols or numbers other than roulette, dice, or baccarat game themes associated with casino gambling, except that game themes that display symbols that appear to roll on drums to simulate a classic casino slot machine or themes of other card games and keno may be used, and that is displayed on a video lottery terminal that: (A) is connected to the video lottery central system; (B) operates by a player's insertion of a coin, currency, voucher, or token into the video lottery terminal that causes the video lottery terminal to display credits that entitle the player to select one or more symbols or numbers or cause the video lottery terminal to randomly select symbols or numbers; (C) allows the player to win additional game play credits, coins, or tokens based on game rules that establish the random selection of winning combinations of symbols or numbers and the number of free play credits, coins, or tokens to be awarded for each winning combination; and (D) allows the player at any time to clear all game play credits and receive a video lottery ticket entitling the player to receive the cash value of those credits. (30) "Video lottery terminal" means an interactive electronic terminal device that is connected to the video lottery central system and displays video lottery games authorized under this chapter and the Texas Constitution. The term does not include a house-banked game, a slot machine, or any other stand-alone video gambling device, that is not connected to the video lottery system or that is otherwise prohibited under state law. (31) "Video lottery system" has the meaning assigned to that term by Section 47(f), Article III, Texas Constitution. (32) "Video lottery ticket" means the tangible evidence issued by a video lottery terminal to reflect winnings from the play of a video lottery game. (33) "Video lottery terminal establishment" means premises at which the operation of video lottery terminals is authorized by the commission under this chapter in accordance with a license or gaming agreement. (34) "Video lottery manager" means a person licensed by the commission under this chapter as required by the Texas Constitution to manage a video lottery terminal establishment at a racetrack or who provides management services for a video lottery terminal establishment on Indian lands. (35) "Video lottery terminal provider" means a person in the business of manufacturing or distributing video lottery terminals in this state. (36) "Video lottery retailer" means a racetrack at which a video lottery terminal establishment is located and that holds a video lottery retailer license under Subchapter K. SECTION 9.02. Section 466.003, Government Code, is amended by amending Subsection (b) and adding Subsection (c) to read as follows: (b) Any [A] contract or authorized agreement between the division and a lottery operator, the video lottery central system provider, a video lottery provider, or a manufacturer or distributor of video lottery games under Section 466.014(b) must contain a provision allowing the contract or authorized agreement to be terminated without penalty should the division be abolished unless another state agency is assigned to control and supervise all video lottery game activity as required by this chapter. (c) Notwithstanding Subsection (a), if any gaming agreement that allows video lottery is in effect, the commission or another state agency designated by the legislature must operate, control, and supervise video lottery games as necessary to comply with a gaming agreement under this chapter. SECTION 9.03. Section 466.004(a), Government Code, is amended to read as follows: (a) A political subdivision of this state may not impose: (1) a tax on the sale of a ticket; (2) a tax on the payment of a prize under this chapter; [or] (3) an ad valorem tax on tickets; or (4) a tax, fee, or other assessment on consideration paid to play a video lottery game. SECTION 9.04. Section 466.014, Government Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 466.014. POWERS AND DUTIES OF COMMISSION AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR; CONTRACT AUTHORITY. (a) The commission and executive director have broad authority and shall exercise strict control and close supervision over [all] lottery games [conducted in this state] to promote and ensure integrity, security, honesty, and fairness in the operation and administration of the lottery. (b) The executive director may contract with or employ a person to perform a function, activity, or service in connection with the operation of the lottery as prescribed by the executive director. A contract relating to the operation of video lottery must be consistent with Subchapter K. Except as provided by this subsection, a [A] person with whom the executive director contracts to operate a lottery game must be eligible for a sales agent license under Section 466.155. A person with whom the executive director contracts to provide the video lottery central system or who registers as a video lottery terminal provider must be licensed, registered, or approved by the commission in accordance with Subchapter K. (c) The executive director may award a contract for lottery supplies, equipment, or services, including a contract under Subsection (b), pending the completion of any investigation and licensing, registration, or other approval authorized and required by this chapter. A contract awarded under this subsection must include a provision permitting the executive director to terminate the contract without penalty if the investigation reveals that the person to whom the contract is awarded would not be eligible for a sales agent license under Section 466.155 or with regard to video lottery does not satisfy the applicable requirements for licensing, registration, or other approval under Subchapter K. (d) In the acquisition or provision of facilities, supplies, equipment, materials, or services related to the implementation of video lottery, the commission is exempt from: (1) procurement procedures prescribed under: (A) Subtitle D, Title 10; and (B) Section 466.101; and (2) any bidding or contract requirements provided by any other law or by commission rules. SECTION 9.05. Section 466.015(b), Government Code, is amended to read as follows: (b) The commission shall adopt rules to the extent they are not inconsistent with Chapters 551 and 552 governing the: (1) security for the lottery and the commission, including the development of an internal security plan; (2) apportionment of the total revenues from the sale of tickets and from all other sources in the amounts provided by this chapter; (3) enforcement of prohibitions on the sale of tickets to or by an individual younger than 18 years of age; [and] (4) enforcement of prohibitions on a person playing a lottery game by telephone; and (5) enforcement of prohibitions provided by law on the sale of any purchase or play of a video lottery game. SECTION 9.06. Section 466.017, Government Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 466.017. AUDITS. (a) The commission [executive director] shall provide for a certified public accountant to conduct an independent audit of the commission's annual financial statements in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards that requires the accountant to express an opinion on the conformity of the financial statements with generally accepted accounting principles [for each fiscal year of all accounts and transactions of the lottery]. The certified public accountant may not have[, as determined by the executive director,] a significant financial interest in a sales agent, lottery vendor, video lottery manager, video lottery retailer, video lottery terminal provider, video lottery central system provider, or lottery operator. The certified public accountant shall present an audit report to the executive director, the commission, the governor, the comptroller, and the legislature not later than the 30th day after the submission date for the annual financial report required by the General Appropriations Act. [The report must contain recommendations to enhance the earnings capability of the lottery and improve the efficiency of lottery operations.] The state auditor may review the results of and working papers related to the audit. (b) The records of a [Each] lottery operator, video lottery manager, video lottery retailer, video lottery terminal provider, video lottery central system provider, or sales agent [operator's and sales agent's records] are subject to audit by the commission and the state auditor. For the purpose of carrying out this chapter, the executive director or state auditor may examine all books, records, papers, or other objects that the executive director or state auditor determines are necessary for conducting a complete examination under this chapter and may also examine under oath any officer, director, or employee of a lottery operator, video lottery manager, video lottery retailer, video lottery terminal provider, video lottery central system provider, or sales agent. The executive director or state auditor may conduct an examination at the principal office or any other office of the lottery operator, video lottery manager, video lottery retailer, video lottery terminal provider, video lottery central system provider, or sales agent or may require the lottery operator, video lottery manager, video lottery retailer, video lottery terminal provider, video lottery central system provider, or sales agent to produce the records at the office of the commission or state auditor. If a sales agent, video lottery manager, video lottery retailer, video lottery terminal provider, or video lottery central system provider refuses to permit an examination or to answer any question authorized by this subsection, the executive director may summarily suspend the license or registration of the sales agent, video lottery manager, video lottery retailer, or video lottery terminal provider under Section 466.160 or Subchapter K until the examination is completed as required. Section 321.013(h) does not apply to an audit of a lottery operator, video lottery manager, video lottery retailer, video lottery terminal provider, video lottery central system provider, or sales agent. SECTION 9.07. Section 466.018, Government Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 466.018. INVESTIGATIONS. The attorney general, the district attorney for Travis County, or the district attorney, criminal district attorney, or county attorney performing the duties of district attorney for the county in which the violation or alleged violation occurred may investigate a violation or alleged violation of this chapter and of the penal laws of this state by the commission or its employees, a sales agent, a lottery vendor, [or] a lottery operator, video lottery manager, video lottery retailer, video lottery terminal provider, or video lottery central system provider. SECTION 9.08. Sections 466.020(c), (d), and (e), Government Code, are amended to read as follows: (c) A security officer or investigator employed by the department of security or a peace officer who is working in conjunction with the commission or the Department of Public Safety in the enforcement of this chapter may: (1) [,] without a search warrant, [may] search and seize a lottery vending machine, lottery computer terminal, video lottery terminal, or other lottery or gaming equipment that is located on premises for which a person holds a sales agent, video lottery retailer, or video lottery manager license issued under this chapter; and (2) seize a lottery vending machine, lottery computer terminal, video lottery terminal, or other lottery or gaming equipment that is being used or is in the possession of any person in violation of this chapter. (d) The Department of Public Safety or any other state or local law enforcement agency in this state, at the commission's request and in accordance with an interagency agreement, shall perform a full criminal background investigation of a prospective deputy or investigator of the department of security. The commission shall reimburse the agency [Department of Public Safety] for the actual costs of an investigation. (e) At least once every two years, the executive director shall employ an independent firm that is experienced in security, including computer security and systems security, to conduct a comprehensive study of all aspects of lottery security, including: (1) lottery personnel security; (2) sales agent security; (3) lottery operator and vendor security; (4) security against ticket counterfeiting and alteration and other means of fraudulent winning; (5) security of lottery drawings; (6) lottery computer, data communications, database, and systems security; (7) lottery premises and warehouse security; (8) security of distribution of tickets; (9) security of validation and payment procedures; (10) security involving unclaimed prizes; (11) security aspects of each lottery game; (12) security against the deliberate placement of winning tickets in lottery games that involve preprinted winning tickets by persons involved in the production, storage, transportation, or distribution of tickets; [and] (13) security of video lottery retailers, video lottery managers, video lottery terminal providers, and the video lottery central system provider; and (14) other security aspects of lottery operations, including video lottery game operations. SECTION 9.09. Section 466.021(a), Government Code, is amended to read as follows: (a) The executive director shall, every two years, employ an independent firm experienced in demographic analysis to conduct a demographic study of lottery players. The study must include the income, age, sex, race, education, and frequency of participation of players. The study must distinguish between players of traditional lottery games and video lottery games. SECTION 9.10. Section 466.022, Government Code, is amended by amending Subsection (b) and adding Subsections (c) and (d) to read as follows: (b) In addition to commission records excepted from disclosure under Chapter 552, the following information is confidential and is exempt from disclosure: (1) security plans and procedures of the commission designed to ensure the integrity and security of the operation of the lottery; (2) information of a nature that is designed to ensure the integrity and security of the selection of winning tickets or numbers in the lottery, other than information describing the general procedures for selecting winning tickets or numbers; [and] (3) the street address and telephone number of a prize winner, if the prize winner has not consented to the release of the information; and (4) information relating to all system operations of video lottery games, including the operation of the video lottery system, security related to video lottery games, and commission plans and procedures intended to ensure the integrity and security of the operation of video lottery games. (c) Information that is confidential under Subsection (b)(4) includes information and data that: (1) is required by the commission to be furnished to the commission under Subchapter K or that may be otherwise obtained by the commission from any source; (2) pertains to an applicant's criminal record, antecedents, and background that is furnished to or obtained by the commission from any source, including information obtained by the commission under Section 411.108(d); (3) is provided to the commission, a commission employee, or an investigator acting on behalf of the commission by a governmental agency or an informer or on the assurance that the information will be held in confidence and treated as confidential; (4) is obtained by the commission from a video lottery manager, video lottery retailer, video lottery terminal provider, or video lottery central system provider; or (5) is prepared or obtained by an agent or employee of the commission relating to a license application, a finding of suitability, or any approval required under Subchapter K. (d) Information that qualifies as confidential under Subsection (b)(4) may be disclosed in whole or in part only as necessary to administer this chapter or on the order of a court of competent jurisdiction. The commission, subject to appropriate procedures, may disclose the information and data to an authorized agent of a political subdivision of this state, the United States, another state or a political subdivision of another state, a tribal law enforcement agency, or the government of a foreign country. For the annual report required under Section 466.016, the commission in its discretion may disclose a compilation of statistical information that is otherwise confidential under Subsection (b)(4) if the compilation does not disclose the identity of an applicant, license holder, or video lottery establishment. Notwithstanding any other provision of state law, the information provided under this subsection may not otherwise be disclosed without specific commission authorization. SECTION 9.11. Section 466.024, Government Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 466.024. PROHIBITED GAMES. (a) The executive director, [or] a lottery operator, a video lottery manager, a video lottery retailer, a video lottery terminal provider, or a video lottery central system provider may not establish or operate a lottery game in which the winner is chosen on the basis of the outcome of a sports event. (b) The [commission shall adopt rules prohibiting the] operation of any game using a video lottery machine, slot [or] machine, or other gambling device that is not connected to the video lottery central system and controlled and supervised by this state as required by Section 47, Article III, Texas Constitution, and this chapter is prohibited. (c) In this section, "sports[: [(1) "Sports] event" means a football, basketball, baseball, or similar game, or a horse or dog race on which pari-mutuel wagering is allowed. [(2) "Video lottery machine" or "machine" means any electronic video game machine that, upon insertion of cash, is available to play or simulate the play of a video game, including video poker, keno, and blackjack, using a video display and microprocessors in which the player may receive free games or credits that can be redeemed for cash, coins, or tokens, or that directly dispenses cash, coins, or tokens.] SECTION 9.12. Section 466.025, Government Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 466.025. REPORTS OF TICKETS SOLD, NET TERMINAL INCOME, AND PRIZES AWARDED. For each lottery game, other than a video lottery game, after the last date on which a prize may be claimed under Section 466.408(d), the director shall prepare a report that shows the total number of tickets sold and the number and amounts of prizes awarded in the game. The report must be available for public inspection. For video lottery games, the director shall prepare a weekly report that shows the net terminal income for the week of the report. SECTION 9.13. Section 466.103(a), Government Code, is amended to read as follows: (a) Except as provided by Subsection (b), the executive director may not award a contract for the purchase or lease of facilities, goods, or services related to lottery operations to a person who: (1) would be denied a license as a sales agent under Section 466.155; or (2) with regard to video lottery games: (A) is not a registered video lottery terminal provider if registration is required; or (B) is deemed unsuitable under Subchapter K. SECTION 9.14. Section 466.110, Government Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 466.110. PROHIBITED ADVERTISEMENTS. The legislature intends that advertisements or promotions sponsored by the commission or the division for the lottery not be of a nature that unduly influences any person to purchase a lottery ticket or number or play a video lottery game. SECTION 9.15. Section 466.151(b), Government Code, is amended to read as follows: (b) The executive director may establish a provisional license or other classes of licenses necessary to regulate and administer the quantity and type of lottery games provided at each licensed location of a sales agent. SECTION 9.16. Section 466.158(a), Government Code, is amended to read as follows: (a) Unless suspended or revoked, a license issued under this subchapter expires on the date specified in the license, which may not be later than the second anniversary of its date of issuance. SECTION 9.17. Section 466.201(a), Government Code, is amended to read as follows: (a) The commission is entitled to conduct an investigation of and is entitled to obtain criminal history record information maintained by the Department of Public Safety, the Federal Bureau of Investigation Identification Division, or another law enforcement agency to assist in the investigation of: (1) a sales agent or an applicant for a sales agent license; (2) a person required to be named in a license application; (3) a lottery operator, video lottery manager, video lottery retailer, video lottery terminal provider, or video lottery central system provider, or prospective lottery operator, video lottery manager, video lottery retailer, video lottery terminal provider, or video lottery central system provider; (4) an employee of a lottery operator, video lottery manager, video lottery retailer, video lottery terminal provider, or video lottery central system provider or prospective lottery operator, video lottery manager, video lottery retailer, video lottery terminal provider, or video lottery central system provider, if the employee is or will be directly involved in lottery operations; (5) a person who manufactures or distributes lottery equipment or supplies, or a representative of a person who manufactures or distributes lottery equipment or supplies offered to the lottery; (6) a person who has submitted a written bid or proposal to the commission in connection with the procurement of goods or services by the commission, if the amount of the bid or proposal exceeds $500; (7) an employee or other person who works for or will work for a sales agent or an applicant for a sales agent license; (8) a person who proposes to enter into or who has a contract with the commission to supply goods or services to the commission; or (9) if a person described in Subdivisions (1) through (8) is not an individual, an individual who: (A) is an officer or director of the person; (B) holds more than 10 percent of the stock in the person; (C) holds an equitable interest greater than 10 percent in the person; (D) is a creditor of the person who holds more than 10 percent of the person's outstanding debt; (E) is the owner or lessee of a business that the person conducts or through which the person will conduct lottery-related activities; (F) shares or will share in the profits, other than stock dividends, of the person; (G) participates in managing the affairs of the person; or (H) is an employee of the person who is or will be involved in: (i) selling tickets; or (ii) handling money from the sale of tickets. SECTION 9.18. Subchapter E, Chapter 466, Government Code, is amended by adding Section 466.206 to read as follows: Sec. 466.206. CRIMINAL HISTORY INVESTIGATION FOR VIDEO LOTTERY. (a) Except as otherwise provided by this section and Sections 466.020, 466.201, and 466.5034, a criminal history investigation of a video lottery retailer, video lottery manager, video lottery terminal provider, or video lottery central system provider is governed by commission rules adopted under Subchapter K, which may consider a criminal history investigation conducted under the Texas Racing Act (Article 179e, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes). (b) The Department of Public Safety or a state or local law enforcement agency in this state, in accordance with an interagency agreement with the commission, shall provide any assistance requested by the commission in the administration and enforcement of this chapter, including conducting background investigations of a person seeking a license, registration, or other commission authorization required under Subchapter K or of any person required to be named in an application for a license, registration, or other commission authorization under that subchapter. (c) This section does not limit the commission's right to obtain criminal history record information from any other local, state, or federal agency. The commission may enter into a confidentiality agreement with the agency as necessary and proper. (d) Except as otherwise provided by Section 411.108(d) or another provision of this chapter, criminal history record information obtained by the commission under this section may be disclosed only: (1) to another law enforcement agency to assist in or further an investigation related to the commission's operation and oversight of video lottery; or (2) under a court order. SECTION 9.19. Section 466.252, Government Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 466.252. PLAYER [PURCHASE OF TICKET] AGREEMENT TO ABIDE BY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS. (a) By purchasing a ticket in a particular lottery game or participating as a player in a lottery game, a player agrees to abide by and be bound by the commission's rules and instructions, including the rules or instructions applicable to the particular lottery game involved. The player also acknowledges that the determination of whether the player is a valid winner is subject to: (1) the commission's rules, instructions, and claims procedures, including those developed for the particular lottery game involved; [and] (2) any validation tests established by the commission for the particular lottery game involved; and (3) the limitations and other provisions prescribed by this chapter. (b) If the lottery uses tickets, an abbreviated form of the rules or a reference to the rules may appear on the tickets. SECTION 9.20. Section 466.3011, Government Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 466.3011. VENUE. Venue is proper in Travis County or any county in which venue is proper under Chapter 13, Code of Criminal Procedure, for: (1) an offense under this chapter; (2) an offense under the Penal Code, if the accused: (A) is a lottery operator, lottery vendor, sales agent, video lottery manager, video lottery retailer, video lottery terminal provider, video lottery central system provider, or employee of the division; and (B) is alleged to have committed the offense while engaged in lottery activities, including video lottery activities; or (3) an offense that involves property consisting of or including lottery tickets under Title 7 or 11, Penal Code. SECTION 9.21. Subchapter G, Chapter 466, Government Code, is amended by adding Section 466.3031 to read as follows: Sec. 466.3031. UNAUTHORIZED OPERATION, USE, OR POSSESSION OF VIDEO LOTTERY TERMINAL. (a) A person may not operate, use, or possess a video lottery terminal or other electronic gambling device unless the operation, use, or possession is expressly authorized by this chapter. (b) Except during transport to or from a video lottery establishment and as provided by this chapter, a person commits an offense if the person operates, uses, or possesses any video lottery terminal that is not at all times connected to the video lottery central system or that does not generate revenue for this state solely to fund public education, except funds retained by the commission to pay administrative costs. An offense under this subsection is a felony of the third degree. (c) A person commits an offense if the person operates, uses, or possesses a gambling device, other than a video lottery terminal authorized under this chapter, including a slot machine, dice game, roulette wheel, house-banked game, or game in which a winner is determined by the outcome of a sports contest. An offense under this subsection is a felony of the third degree. (d) Notwithstanding Subsection (b) or (c), a video lottery retailer, video lottery manager, or registered video lottery terminal provider may store a video lottery terminal as authorized by the commission for a period not to exceed 120 consecutive days, and the commission may possess video lottery terminals for study and evaluation. (e) Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit the operation, use, or possession of equipment, machines, technological aids, or other devices allowed in connection with the play of bingo under Chapter 2001, Occupations Code. SECTION 9.22. Section 466.305(a), Government Code, is amended to read as follows: (a) A sales agent, video lottery manager, or video lottery retailer, or an employee of a sales agent, video lottery manager, or video lottery retailer, commits an offense if the person intentionally or knowingly sells a ticket to another person or allows the person to play or conduct a game on a video lottery terminal by extending credit or lending money to the person to enable the person to purchase the ticket or play the game. SECTION 9.23. The heading to Section 466.3051, Government Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 466.3051. SALE OF TICKET OR LOTTERY GAME TO OR PURCHASE OF TICKET OR LOTTERY GAME BY PERSON YOUNGER THAN 18 YEARS OF AGE. SECTION 9.24. Section 466.3051, Government Code, is amended by adding Subsection (a-1) and amending Subsections (b) and (e) to read as follows: (a-1) A video lottery manager, video lottery retailer, or an employee of a video lottery manager or video lottery retailer commits an offense if the person intentionally or knowingly allows a person younger than 18 years of age to play a video lottery game. (b) An individual who is younger than 18 years of age commits an offense if the individual: (1) purchases a ticket; (2) plays a video lottery game; or (3) [(2)] falsely represents the individual to be 18 years of age or older by displaying evidence of age that is false or fraudulent or misrepresents in any way the individual's age in order to purchase a ticket or play a video lottery game. (e) An offense under Subsection (a) or (a-1) is a Class C misdemeanor. SECTION 9.25. Section 466.3053, Government Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 466.3053. PURCHASE OF TICKET OR VIDEO LOTTERY GAME WITH PROCEEDS OF AFDC CHECK OR FOOD STAMPS. (a) A person commits an offense if the person intentionally or knowingly purchases a ticket or plays a video lottery game with: (1) the proceeds of a check issued as a payment under the Aid to Families with Dependent Children program administered under Chapter 31, Human Resources Code; or (2) a food stamp coupon issued under the food stamp program administered under Chapter 33, Human Resources Code. (b) An offense under this section is a Class C misdemeanor. SECTION 9.26. Section 466.306, Government Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 466.306. FORGERY; ALTERATION OF TICKET. (a) A person commits an offense if the person intentionally or knowingly alters or forges a ticket or video lottery ticket. (b) An offense under this section is a felony of the third degree unless it is shown on the trial of the offense that the prize alleged to be authorized by the ticket or video lottery ticket forged or altered is greater than $10,000, in which event the offense is a felony of the second degree. SECTION 9.27. Section 466.309(a), Government Code, is amended to read as follows: (a) A person commits an offense if the person intentionally or knowingly tampers with, damages, defaces, or renders inoperable any vending machine, electronic computer terminal, video lottery terminal or other video lottery equipment, or other mechanical device used in a lottery game. SECTION 9.28. The heading to Section 466.317, Government Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 466.317. PROHIBITION AGAINST SALE OF CERTAIN LOTTERY TICKETS OR OPERATION OF CERTAIN VIDEO LOTTERY SYSTEMS. SECTION 9.29. Section 466.317, Government Code, is amended by adding Subsection (a-1) and amending Subsections (b) and (c) to read as follows: (a-1) A person may not control or operate a video lottery system in this state except as provided by this chapter. (b) The state may enter into a compact with another state or state government [or an Indian tribe or tribal government] to permit the sale of lottery tickets of this state in the state's[, tribe's,] or government's jurisdiction and to allow the sale of the state's[, tribe's,] or government's lottery tickets in this state. (c) A person commits an offense if the person violates this section. An offense under this section is a felony of the third degree [Class A misdemeanor]. SECTION 9.30. Subchapter H, Chapter 466, Government Code, is amended by adding Section 466.360 to read as follows: Sec. 466.360. VIDEO LOTTERY TERMINAL REVENUE. Revenue generated from the operation of video lottery terminals is governed by Subchapter K and commission rules. SECTION 9.31. Section 466.355(a), Government Code, is amended to read as follows: (a) The state lottery account is a special account in the general revenue fund. The account consists of all revenue received from the sale of tickets, license and application fees under this chapter, other than Subchapter K [chapter], and all money credited to the account from any other fund or source under law. Interest earned by the state lottery account shall be deposited in the unobligated portion of the general revenue fund. SECTION 9.32. Section 466.402, Government Code, is amended by adding Subsection (e) to read as follows: (e) This section does not apply to the payment of prizes for video lottery games governed by Subchapter K. SECTION 9.33. Chapter 466, Government Code, is amended by adding Subchapter K to read as follows:
SUBCHAPTER K. VIDEO LOTTERY
Sec. 466.501. LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS AND DECLARATIONS. The legislature finds and declares the following: (1) This state has a long-standing public policy prohibiting gambling. The Texas Constitution of 1845 and every subsequent Texas Constitution has included a prohibition against lotteries. The constitutions of 1845, 1861, 1866, and 1869 stated that "[n]o lottery shall be authorized by this State; and the buying [and/or] selling of lottery tickets within this state is prohibited." As early as 1874, the Texas Supreme Court made clear that this prohibition covered any activity in which the element of chance is connected with or enters into the distribution of prizes. This prohibition against lotteries includes slot machines, "bank night," and any other activity that has the following three elements: (A) the offering of a prize; (B) the determination of the winner by chance; and (C) the giving of consideration for an opportunity to win the prize. (2) This state's public policy prohibiting gambling is subject only to very limited exceptions enumerated in the Texas Constitution and approved by the voters. These limited exceptions fall into three categories: bingo games conducted by enumerated charitable or nonprofit organizations; pari-mutuel wagering on horse and greyhound races; and a state operated lottery limited to lottery tickets sold by licensed sales agents on behalf of this state and video lottery games conducted at certain racetracks and on certain Indian lands in this state. Accordingly, it is the intent of the people of this state that gambling not be expanded beyond these limited exceptions in this state. (3) Any game that is a lottery cannot lawfully be operated in this state unless the game is expressly excepted from the constitutional prohibition against lotteries. In 1991, the electorate approved a constitutional amendment allowing only for a traditional form of a state operated lottery. In 2004, the electorate approved a constitutional amendment allowing expansion of the existing state lottery through a state-controlled video lottery system allowing only video lottery terminals connected to the state-controlled video lottery central system to be placed at certain racetracks conducting live horse or greyhound racing and at facilities located on certain Indian lands in this state. (4) The purpose and intent of this chapter is to carry out the intent of the voters as established by the approval of Section 47(f), Article III, Texas Constitution, to expand the revenue-generating ability of the state lottery to provide additional money for funding public education and supporting other state governmental programs by authorizing the state to operate a video lottery system consistent with public policy strictly limiting the expansion of gambling in this state. (5) In approving the constitutional amendment permitting the legislature to authorize state-controlled video lottery, it was the intent of the voters to continue the prohibitions on all other electronic gambling devices and casino-style gaming. (6) Except for the operation of video lottery terminals on certain Indian lands as defined by the Texas Constitution, the people of this state intend to allow only state-controlled video lottery games to be conducted in this state and only in locations at which pari-mutuel wagering is conducted at racetracks. (7) This state has the authority and responsibility to control the proliferation of gambling by: (A) limiting the total number of video lottery terminals permitted at authorized locations in this state; (B) limiting video lottery licensing to a fixed number of existing racetracks; (C) extending strict and exclusive state oversight and supervision to all persons, locations, practices, and associations related to the operation of video lottery games; and (D) providing comprehensive law enforcement supervision of video lottery game activities. (8) This state's ability to monitor and control the operation of all video lottery terminals ensures the integrity of the system and provides for the most efficient oversight and supervision. Costs incurred for oversight and supervision of gambling will be significantly less than if video lottery terminals were not operated as part of the video lottery system. In addition, providing for the state-controlled system will defend against criminal infiltration of gambling operations. (9) Casino gaming of the type operating in Nevada and New Jersey in 2004 is materially different from the limited scope of video lottery operations at licensed racetracks and tribal gaming facilities authorized under this chapter, in that casino gaming: (A) commonly offers patrons a broad spectrum of house-banked games, including slot machines, dice games, roulette wheels, house-banked card games, or games in which winners are determined by the outcome of a sports contest, all of which are prohibited under this chapter; (B) allows gambling on credit; (C) is not restricted in scope and scale in the manner required by the Texas Constitution; and (D) does not require profits to be dedicated, as is the policy of this state, for funding public education and other state governmental programs, and with regard to revenues generated from video lottery operations on Indian lands, to support tribal purposes, including tribal government services and programs. (10) Unlike casino gaming of the type described by Subdivision (9), the video lottery games operated at racetracks under this chapter are controlled by this state in a manner that allows the state to continuously monitor all video lottery terminals and to disable any video lottery terminal for the protection of the public and this state. (11) Through the video lottery system this state will monitor the network of video lottery terminals to ensure maximum security unique to state-operated gambling. Except as may otherwise be required by federal law governing Indian lands, each operating video lottery terminal in this state will be connected to the video lottery central system. (12) The authorization for state-controlled video lottery terminals for the purpose of raising revenue for public education and other state governmental programs is consistent with this state's public policy prohibiting gambling so long as the gambling is not, in any way, expanded beyond that directly controlled by this state. Expanded gambling beyond this limited form of state-controlled gambling would compromise the public safety, law, and long-standing policy against gambling in this state. In addition, such expanded gambling could impose prohibitive cost on this state's regulatory system and, therefore, defeat the effort to raise revenue for public education and other state governmental programs through authorized video lottery terminals. For all of these reasons, any interpretation that allows for casino gaming of the type operating in Nevada and New Jersey in 2004 at racetracks or on Indian lands as a result of the authorization of video lottery terminals would have severe adverse consequences on this state's efforts to raise revenue for public education and other governmental programs through the operation of video lottery terminals and would violate the public policy against gambling in such a way that would clearly outweigh any potential positive economic consequences. (13) In authorizing only a state-controlled and state-operated video lottery system and state-controlled video lottery terminals in limited locations and continuing the general prohibition on gambling in this state as a matter of public policy, this state is protecting the state's legitimate interests by restricting such vice activity. By limiting operation of video lottery terminals to those connected to the state-controlled video lottery system and to certain lands and certain types of games, the legislature seeks to foster this state's legitimate sovereign interest in regulating the growth of gambling activities in this state. Historically, this state has banned commercial gambling altogether and, therefore, it is in this state's best interest to limit the placement of commercial gambling operations to certain locations. Limiting video lottery terminals to those controlled by this state and located on racetracks where regulated gambling already occurs is reasonably designed to defend against the criminal infiltration of gambling operations and adverse impacts on communities statewide. By restricting gambling such as video lottery terminals to carefully limited locations and video lottery terminals controlled by this state that may be disabled by this state if necessary to protect the public, this state furthers the state's purpose of ensuring that such gambling activities are free from criminal and undesirable elements. (14) This chapter is game-specific and may not be construed to allow the operation of any other form of gambling unless specifically allowed by this chapter. This chapter does not allow the operation of slot machines, dice games, roulette wheels, house-banked games, including house-banked card games, or games in which winners are determined by the outcome of a sports contest that are expressly prohibited under state law. (15) In considering limitations on expanded gambling in this state, it is a critical factor to effectuate the will of the voters that any gaming on lands of the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo and Alabama-Coushatta Indian tribes must be in strict compliance with state law. The Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas is only entitled to operate video lottery terminals in strict compliance with state law, unless otherwise required by federal law and in accordance with a gaming agreement negotiated with the governor and ratified by the legislature. A tribe may not under any circumstances operate Class III gaming as defined by federal law other than video lottery terminals connected to a video lottery central system controlled and operated by this state. (16) The voters have conferred a substantial economic benefit on federally recognized Indian tribes by allowing operation of video lottery terminals on lands held in trust by the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo and Alabama-Coushatta Indian tribes at the time of the ratification and approval of Section 47(f), Article III, Texas Constitution, and on Indian lands of the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas on which gaming is allowed under applicable federal law. These tribes have the exclusive right to operate video lottery terminals at locations on the Indian lands in this state without incurring the investment necessary to construct, maintain, and operate racetracks for live racing, and through revenue-sharing both the policy of self-governance for the tribes and this state's interests in generating additional revenue for public education and other state governmental programs can be promoted. (17) The public has an interest in video lottery game operations, and lottery operations conducted under Section 47(f), Article III, Texas Constitution, and this chapter represent an exception to the general policy of this state prohibiting wagering for private gain. Therefore, participation in a video lottery game by a license or registration holder under this chapter is considered a privilege conditioned on the proper and continued qualification of the license or registration holder and on the discharge of the affirmative responsibility of each license or registration holder to provide to the regulatory and investigatory authorities established by this chapter any assistance and information necessary to assure that the policies declared by this chapter are achieved. Consistent with this policy, it is the intent of this chapter to: (A) preclude the creation of any property right in any license, registration, or approval issued or granted by this state under this chapter, the accrual of any value to the privilege of participation in any video lottery game operation, or the transfer of a license or permit; and (B) require that participation in video lottery game operations be solely conditioned on the individual qualifications of persons seeking this privilege. (18) Only video lottery terminals lawfully operated in connection with a video lottery system authorized by this subchapter may be lawfully operated on Indian lands under the Johnson Act (15 U.S.C. Section 1175). Sec. 466.502. LOCAL LAW PREEMPTED; APPLICABILITY OF OTHER LAWS. (a) This subchapter applies uniformly throughout this state and all political subdivisions of this state. (b) Nothing contained in this chapter may be construed to implicitly repeal or modify existing state laws with respect to gambling, except that the state lottery and video lottery terminals are not prohibited by another law if conducted as authorized under this subchapter. (c) To the extent of any inconsistency between Chapter 2003 and a commission rule governing video lottery terminals or a provision of this subchapter, the commission rule or provision of this subchapter controls in all matters related to video lottery terminals, including hearings before the State Office of Administrative Hearings. Sec. 466.503. AUTHORITY TO OPERATE VIDEO LOTTERY. (a) The commission may implement and operate a video lottery system and control the operation of video lottery terminals at racetracks in accordance with this chapter and the applicable provisions of the Texas Racing Act (Article 179e, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes). This chapter supersedes any conflicting or inconsistent provision of the Texas Racing Act (Article 179e, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes) or other state law. (b) The commission may allow the operation of video lottery terminals pursuant to this chapter at locations on Indian lands in accordance with an effective gaming agreement and in compliance with applicable federal law. (c) This state owns all video lottery games, regardless of ownership of the video lottery terminal. This state possesses a proprietary interest in the main logic boards, any electronic storage medium used in video lottery equipment or games, and software consisting of computer programs, documentation, and other related materials necessary for the operation of the video lottery system. (d) For purposes of this chapter, this state may acquire a proprietary interest in video lottery game software through: (1) ownership of the software; or (2) an exclusive product license agreement with a provider in which the provider retains copyrighted ownership of the software but the license granted to this state is nontransferable and authorizes this state to operate the software program, solely for the state's own use, on the video lottery central system and video lottery terminals connected to the video lottery central system. (e) Video lottery equipment operated under commission authority and this chapter is exempt from 15 U.S.C. Section 1172. Sec. 466.5031. STATE CONTROL OF VIDEO LOTTERY SYSTEM. (a) In accordance with Section 47(f), Article III, Texas Constitution, the commission shall control and operate the video lottery system and the video lottery central system through which this state has the exclusive and unilateral ability to monitor activity of video lottery terminals and remotely disable video lottery terminals for the public safety, health, and welfare or the preservation of the integrity of the lottery. (b) The commission may disable a video lottery terminal if a video lottery retailer's or video lottery manager's license is revoked, surrendered, or summarily suspended under Section 466.50341. Sec. 466.5032. VIDEO LOTTERY CENTRAL SYSTEM. (a) The commission shall establish or cause to be established a video lottery central system to link all video lottery terminals in the video lottery system. The video lottery central system must provide the auditing and other information required by the commission. (b) The commission shall provide to a registered video lottery terminal provider or an applicant applying for registration as a video lottery terminal provider the protocol documentation data necessary to enable the provider's or applicant's video lottery terminals to communicate with the commission's video lottery central system for transmission of auditing program information and for activation and disabling of video lottery terminals. (c) The video lottery central system may not limit or preclude potential providers from providing the video lottery terminals based on: (1) prohibitive costs to implement program modifications necessary to communicate or link with the system; or (2) the inability of video lottery terminals of more than one provider to communicate or link with the system. (d) The video lottery central system provider may not sell or distribute video lottery terminals in this state. (e) The commission may contract with a video lottery central system provider to establish the video lottery central system. Sec. 466.5033. REGISTRATION AND APPROVAL OF VIDEO LOTTERY TERMINAL PROVIDERS. (a) A person may not manufacture or distribute video lottery equipment for use or play in this state unless the person is registered under this chapter as a video lottery terminal provider or is otherwise approved by the commission to manufacture or distribute video lottery equipment in this state. (b) Unless suspended or revoked, the registration or approval expires on the date specified by the commission, which may not be later than the third anniversary of the date of the registration or approval. (c) To be eligible for registration or commission approval as required by this section, an applicant must satisfy all requirements under this subchapter. (d) The commission shall adopt rules governing the registration and approval of video lottery terminal providers. The rules at a minimum must require the application and any other form or document submitted to the commission by or on behalf of the applicant to determine qualification under this section to be sworn to or affirmed before an officer qualified to administer oaths. The applicant must provide the following information: (1) the full name and address of the applicant; (2) the full name and address of each location at which video lottery equipment is or will be manufactured or stored in this state; (3) the name, home address, and share of ownership of the applicant's substantial interest holders; (4) a full description of each separate type of video lottery equipment that the applicant seeks to manufacture or distribute in this state; (5) the brand name under which each type of video lottery equipment is to be distributed; (6) if the applicant is incorporated under laws other than the laws of this state, an irrevocable designation by the applicant of the secretary of state as resident agent for service of process and notice in accordance with the law of this state; (7) a list of all businesses or organizations in this state in which the applicant has any financial interest and the details of that financial interest, including all arrangements through which a person directly or indirectly receives any portion of the profits of the video lottery terminal provider and indebtedness between the license holder and any other person, other than a regulated financial institution, in excess of $5,000; (8) a list of all affiliated businesses or corporations in which the applicant or an officer, director, or substantial interest-holder of the applicant, either directly or indirectly, owns or controls as a sole proprietor or partner more than 10 percent of the voting stock of a publicly traded corporation; (9) a list of all businesses or corporations licensed to conduct gambling activities or to supply gambling-related equipment, supplies, or services in which the applicant or an officer, director, or substantial interest-holder of the applicant has any interest; (10) a list of all jurisdictions in which the applicant or an officer, director, or substantial interest-holder of the applicant has been licensed, registered, qualified, or otherwise approved for gambling-related activities during the preceding 10 years from the date of the filing of the application; (11) a statement indicating whether the applicant or an officer, director, or substantial interest-holder of the applicant has ever had a license, registration, qualification, or other approval for gambling-related activities denied, revoked, or suspended by any jurisdiction or has been fined or otherwise required to pay penalties or monetary forfeitures for gambling-related activities in any jurisdiction, including all related details; and (12) a statement acknowledging that the applicant will make available for review at the time and place requested by the commission all records related to the ownership or operation of the business. (e) The commission may require the following information from an applicant: (1) personal financial and personal history records of all substantial interest-holders; (2) all records related to the scope of activity, including sales of product, purchases of raw materials and parts, and any contracts, franchises, patent agreements, or similar contracts or arrangements related to manufacturing or distributing video lottery terminals; and (3) records related to any financial or management control of or by customers and suppliers. (f) The applicant must demonstrate the ability to comply with all manufacturing, quality control, and operational restrictions imposed on authorized video lottery equipment, patented or otherwise restricted video lottery games, or other video lottery equipment that the applicant seeks to manufacture or distribute for use in this state. The registration process must include an on-site review of the applicant's manufacturing equipment and process for each separate type of authorized video lottery equipment to ensure capability to comply with all regulatory requirements of this chapter or rules adopted under this chapter. (g) The applicant, not later than the 10th day after the date of the change, shall notify the commission of any change in the information submitted on or with the application form, including changes that occur after the registration or other commission approval has been granted. (h) The applicant shall comply with all federal and state laws, local ordinances, and rules. (i) An applicant seeking registration or approval under this section must pay a nonrefundable application fee in the amount of $300,000. Application fees paid under this subsection shall be retained by the commission to defray costs incurred in the administration and enforcement of this chapter relating to the operation of video lottery terminals. Sec. 466.5034. LICENSING OF VIDEO LOTTERY RETAILERS AND VIDEO LOTTERY MANAGERS. (a) Except as provided by a gaming agreement, a person may not own or operate a video lottery terminal if the person does not satisfy the requirements of this section and is not licensed by the commission to act as a video lottery retailer or video lottery manager. (b) An officer, partner, director, key employee, substantial interest-holder, video lottery game operation employee, and owner of video lottery game operations must be eligible and maintain eligibility in accordance with this subchapter to be involved in video lottery games in this state. (c) A person licensed under this section must provide to the commission the name and address of each employee involved in the operation of video lottery games and the name and address of the providers of surety and insurance required by Section 466.511. Not later than the 10th day following the date of the change, a license holder must report to the commission any change in an officer, partner, director, key employee, substantial interest-holder, video lottery game operation employee, or owner and any change in a surety or insurance provider. (d) An applicant for a video lottery retailer or video lottery manager license must submit a nonrefundable application processing fee in the amount of $100,000. An application may not be processed until the applicant provides the nonrefundable application fee. If the application fee is not received within 30 days of the date the commission notifies the applicant of the amount of the fee, the application is considered withdrawn and may not be considered by the commission. (e) The commission shall set any additional application fee necessary to pay the costs of determining the applicant's eligibility, including costs to conduct all investigations necessary for processing the application. An investigation may not begin until the applicant has submitted all required fees to the commission. If additional fees are required by the commission during the course of the investigation or processing of the application and the fees are not received by the commission within 15 days of the date the commission notifies the applicant of the amount of fees, the investigation and evaluation processes must be suspended. An application fee paid under this section shall be retained by the commission to defray costs incurred in the administration and enforcement of this chapter relating to the operation of video lottery terminals. (f) An applicant for a license under this section must apply to the commission under rules adopted by the commission, provide the information necessary to determine the applicant's eligibility for a license, and provide other information considered necessary by the commission. An applicant must: (1) hold a valid racing license granted by the Texas Racing Commission under the Texas Racing Act (Article 179e, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes) and be a racetrack as defined by Section 466.002; (2) have a valid and executed contract with a racetrack that satisfies the requirements of Subdivision (1) to act as a video lottery manager for the racetrack subject to licensing under this chapter; or (3) demonstrate to the commission's satisfaction that the applicant seeks to act as a video lottery manager for a federally recognized Indian tribe that has entered into a gaming agreement with this state that is in effect and governs the regulation of video lottery terminals on Indian lands in this state. (g) An applicant for a video lottery retailer or video lottery manager license has the burden of proving qualification for a license by clear and convincing evidence. In addition to satisfying minimum requirements established by commission rules, an applicant for a video lottery retailer or video lottery manager license must: (1) be a person of good character, honesty, and integrity; (2) be a person whose background and prior activities, including criminal record, reputation, habits, and associations, do not pose a threat to the security and integrity of video lottery or to the public interest of this state or to the effective operation and control of the lottery, or do not create or enhance the dangers of unsuitable, unfair, or illegal practices, methods, and activities in the conduct of the lottery or in the carrying on of the business and financial arrangements incidental to the lottery; (3) if applying for a new license, provide fingerprints for a criminal records evaluation by the Texas Department of Public Safety or other law enforcement agency, including fingerprints for each person required to be named in an application, accompanied by a signed authorization for the release of information to the commission by the department of public safety and the Federal Bureau of Investigation; (4) not have been convicted of an offense under this chapter or of any crime related to theft, bribery, gambling, or involving moral turpitude; (5) demonstrate adequate business probity, competence, experience, and financial stability as defined by the commission; (6) demonstrate adequate financing for the operation of the facility at which the video lottery terminals will be operated by disclosing all financing or refinancing arrangements for the purchase, lease, or other acquisition of video lottery equipment in the degree of detail requested by the commission, and the commission shall determine whether the financing is from a source that meets the requirements of this section and is adequate to support the successful performance of the duties and responsibilities of the license holder; (7) when applying for a new license or renewing a license under this chapter, present evidence to the commission of the existence and terms of any agreement regarding the proceeds from the operation of video lottery terminals; (8) demonstrate that each substantial interest-holder meets all applicable qualifications under this subchapter; (9) provide all information, including financial data and documents, consents, waivers, and any other materials requested by the commission for purposes of determining qualifications for a license; and (10) as part of its application, expressly waive any and all claims against the commission, this state, and a member, officer, employee, or authorized agent of the commission or this state for damages resulting from any background investigation, disclosure, or publication relating to an application for a video lottery retailer or video lottery manager license. (h) An application, registration, or disclosure form and any other document submitted to the commission by or on behalf of the applicant for purposes of determining qualification for a video lottery retailer or video lottery manager license must be sworn to or affirmed before an officer qualified to administer oaths. (i) An applicant who knowingly fails to reveal any fact material to qualification for a license, finding of suitability, or other approval or who knowingly submits false or misleading material information is ineligible for a video lottery retailer or video lottery manager license. (j) An applicant for a facility site for a video lottery terminal establishment must: (1) provide certification by an independent party that the facility complies with all requirements under this section; provided, however, that this subsection does not preclude a license holder from conducting video lottery terminal operations in a qualified temporary facility as authorized by the commission for the period prescribed by the commission; (2) conform to the high-quality commercial building standards approved by the commission; (3) provide a mechanical system to ensure an indoor environment that is healthful, comfortable, and free of objectionable odors; provide a heating, air conditioning, and ventilation system that at a minimum complies with the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers, Inc.'s, standards for ventilation for acceptable indoor air quality and standards for thermal environmental conditions for human occupancy applicable on May 1, 2004, or other standards determined by the board; (4) provide that all electrical wiring, parts, and loads meet the National Fire Protection Association National Electrical Code in effect on May 1, 2004, or other standards determined by the board; (5) provide electrical service to the facility sufficient to provide electrical energy for lights, equipment, and heating, ventilating, and air conditioning; (6) provide free and unrestricted access to the video lottery terminal establishment and full cooperation with all state oversight agencies, the commission, and commission vendors; (7) consent to the application of state laws with regard to any action arising out of the operation of video lottery terminals with exclusive venue in Travis County, Texas; and (8) provide office space for a minimum of one commission employee that meets the requirements of the commission to ensure that the space allows the commission to efficiently perform its duties. (k) An applicant or license holder must provide the following information relating to the applicant's or license holder's video lottery terminal establishment and update the information at least annually: (1) a comprehensive map and location grid showing all major highways and cities that are adjacent to the establishment; (2) a professionally surveyed property site plan clearly identifying all existing public and private roads or lanes, including roadway widths and composition accessing the establishment; (3) all existing utility routes, details, and specifications; (4) a site plan showing all existing structures, parking, and landscape features; (5) the proposed building site plan clearly identifying all proposed improvements to the proposed building; (6) plans scalable to architectural standards that include a site plan, proposed site plan, building site plan, and building exterior elevations, and the plans and subsequent notes must include all specifications and construction scope to the building site and structure and be submitted in an outline format that explains the major design and construction elements of the establishment and related site; (7) a proposed building site plan; (8) well-developed ingress and egress plans; and (9) an audited financial statement. (l) An applicant shall notify the commission of any change in the application information for a license or renewal of a license not later than the 10th day after the date of the change, except that a publicly traded corporation or other business association or entity applicant is not required to notify the commission of a transfer by which any person directly or indirectly becomes the beneficial owner of less than 10 percent of the stock of the corporation or association. (m) Except as provided by Subsection (n), the commission shall deny an application for a license or shall suspend or revoke a license if the commission finds that the applicant would be subject to denial or revocation of a sales agent license under Section 466.155. (n) Notwithstanding Section 466.155, the commission may not deny, suspend, or revoke a license under this chapter based on the fact that a video lottery terminal establishment or a proposed video lottery terminal establishment is a location for which a person holds a wine and beer retailer's permit, mixed beverage permit, mixed beverage late hours permit, private club registration permit, or private club late hours permit, issued under Chapter 25, 28, 29, 32, or 33, Alcoholic Beverage Code. (o) The holder of a license under this subchapter may operate as a sales agent for lottery tickets in accordance with this chapter. (p) Unless suspended or revoked, a license issued under this subchapter expires on the date specified in the license, which may not be later than the fifth anniversary of the date of issuance. To be eligible for renewal of a license, an applicant must satisfy all licensing requirements under this subchapter. (q) An application to receive or renew a license or to be found suitable constitutes a request for a determination of the applicant's general character, integrity, and ability to participate or engage in or be associated with the operation of video lottery terminals. Any written or oral statement made in the course of an official commission proceeding or investigative activities related to an application for commission licensing, registration, or other approval under this subchapter, by any member or agent or any witness testifying under oath that is relevant to the purpose of the proceeding is absolutely privileged and does not impose liability for defamation or constitute a ground for recovery in any civil action. (r) The commission by rule may establish other license qualifications the commission determines are in the public interest and consistent with the declared policy of this state. (s) The commission in its discretion may require a suitability finding for any person doing business with or in relation to the operation of video lottery terminals who is not otherwise required to obtain a license or registration from the commission for the person's video lottery-related business operations. Sec. 466.50341. SUMMARY SUSPENSION; TERMINAL DISABLED. (a) The commission may summarily suspend the license of a video lottery retailer or video lottery manager without notice or hearing if the commission finds the action is necessary to maintain the integrity, security, honesty, or fairness of the operation or administration of the lottery or to prevent financial loss to this state and: (1) the license holder fails to deposit money received from video lottery terminal operations as required by this chapter or commission rule; (2) an event occurs that would render the license holder ineligible for a license under this subchapter; (3) the license holder refuses to allow the commission, the commission's agents, or the state auditor, or their designees, to examine the license holder's books, records, papers, or other objects under Section 466.017; or (4) the executive director learns the license holder failed to disclose information that would, if disclosed, render the video lottery retailer or video lottery manager ineligible for a license under this subchapter. (b) A summary suspension under this subchapter must comply with the notice and procedure requirements provided by Section 466.160. (c) The commission may disable a video lottery terminal operated by a license holder under this subchapter at the time: (1) a proceeding to summarily suspend the license is initiated; (2) the commission discovers the license holder failed to deposit money received from video lottery terminal operation as required if the license is being summarily suspended under this section; or (3) of the occurrence of an act or omission that, under commission rules, justifies the termination of video lottery terminal operations to protect the public health, welfare, or safety or the integrity of the lottery or to prevent financial loss to this state. (d) The commission shall immediately disable a video lottery terminal if necessary to protect the public health, welfare, or safety. Sec. 466.5035. LICENSING, REGISTRATION, SUITABILITY, QUALIFICATION, AND REGULATORY APPROVAL AS REVOCABLE PERSONAL PRIVILEGES. (a) An applicant for a license, registration, suitability, qualification, or other affirmative regulatory approval under this subchapter does not have any right to the license, registration, suitability, or qualification, or the granting of the approval sought. Any license, registration, suitability, or qualification issued or other regulatory approval granted under this subchapter is a revocable privilege, and a holder of the privilege does not acquire any vested right in or under the privilege. The courts of this state do not have jurisdiction to review a decision to deny, limit, or condition the license, registration, suitability, qualification, or request for approval unless the judicial review is sought on the ground that the denial, limitation, or condition is based on a suspect classification, such as race, color, religion, sex, or national origin, in violation of the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution. If a state court has jurisdiction over a claim under this section, then this state's sovereign immunity is waived only to the extent expressly provided by Section 466.515. (b) A license, registration, suitability, qualification, or regulatory approval granted or renewed under this subchapter may not be transferred or assigned to another person, and a license, registration, suitability, qualification, or approval may not be pledged as collateral. The purchaser or successor of a person who has been granted a license, registration, suitability, qualification, or regulatory approval must independently qualify for a license, registration, suitability, qualification, or approval required by this subchapter. (c) The following acts void the license, registration, suitability, qualification, or other regulatory approval of the holder unless approved in advance by the commission: (1) the transfer, sale, or other disposition of an interest in the holder that results in a change in the identity of a substantial interest holder; or (2) the sale of the assets of the holder, other than assets bought and sold in the ordinary course of business, or any interest in the assets, to any person not already determined to have met the applicable qualifications of this subchapter. Sec. 466.5036. VIDEO LOTTERY TERMINAL ESTABLISHMENT; PROCUREMENT OF VIDEO LOTTERY TERMINALS. (a) A video lottery retailer or video lottery manager shall provide all necessary capital investments and required improvements at a video lottery terminal establishment operated by the retailer or manager. (b) The commission shall provide all video lottery retailers or video lottery managers with a list of registered video lottery terminal providers, video lottery games, and video lottery terminals authorized for operation under this subchapter. At the time and in the manner prescribed by commission rule, a video lottery retailer or video lottery manager shall remit to the commission a fee of $25,000 for each video lottery terminal delivered to the video lottery terminal establishment operated by the retailer or manager. (c) A video lottery terminal provider may not distribute a video lottery terminal or other video lottery equipment for placement at a video lottery terminal establishment in this state unless the video lottery terminal has been approved by the commission. Only a video lottery terminal provider registered with the commission may apply for approval of a video lottery terminal or other video lottery equipment. At least 10 days before the date of shipment to a location in this state, a video lottery terminal provider shall file a report with the commission itemizing all video lottery terminals and other video lottery equipment to be provided to a video lottery retailer or video lottery manager in the shipment. (d) A video lottery terminal provider shall submit two copies of terminal illustrations, schematics, block diagrams, circuit analysis, technical and operation manuals, and any other information requested by the commission for the purpose of analyzing and testing the video lottery terminal or other video lottery equipment. (e) The commission may require up to four working models of a video lottery terminal to be transported to a location designated by the commission for testing, examination, and analysis. The video lottery terminal provider shall pay all the costs of testing, examination, analysis, and transportation of the models. The testing, examination, and analysis of video lottery terminals may require dismantling of the terminal, and some tests may result in damage or destruction to one or more electronic components of the model. The commission may require that the video lottery terminal provider provide specialized equipment or pay for an independent technical expert or laboratory to test the terminal. (f) The video lottery terminal provider shall pay the cost of transporting up to four video lottery terminals to the headquarters of the commission or a location designated by the commission. The commission shall conduct an acceptance test to determine terminal functions and compatibility with the video lottery central system. At the expense of the video lottery terminal provider, the commission may contract with an independent technical expert or laboratory to determine compatibility and terminal functions. If the video lottery terminal fails the acceptance test conducted by the commission, the video lottery terminal provider shall make all modifications required by the commission before distribution in this state. (g) After each test under this section has been completed, the commission shall provide the video lottery terminal provider with a report containing findings, conclusions, and pass or fail results. The report may contain recommendations for modifications to bring a video lottery terminal into compliance with this chapter and commission standards. Before approving a particular video lottery terminal model, the commission may require a field trial period not to exceed 60 days for a licensed video lottery terminal establishment to test the terminal. During the trial period, modifications may not be made to the video lottery terminal model unless approved by the commission. (h) The video lottery terminal provider is responsible for the assembly and installation of all video lottery terminals and other video lottery equipment. The video lottery terminal provider and video lottery retailer or video lottery manager may not change the assembly or operational functions of a video lottery terminal authorized by the commission for placement in this state unless a request for modification of an existing video lottery terminal prototype is approved by the commission. The request must contain: (1) a detailed description of the type of change; (2) a detailed description of the reasons for the change; and (3) technical documentation of the change. (i) A video lottery terminal approved by the commission for placement at a video lottery terminal establishment must conform to the exact specifications of the video lottery terminal prototype tested and approved by the commission. If any video lottery terminal that has not been approved by the commission is distributed by a video lottery terminal provider or operated by a video lottery retailer or video lottery manager or if an approved video lottery terminal malfunctions, the commission shall require the terminal to be removed from use and play. The commission may order that an unapproved terminal be seized and destroyed and that a malfunctioning device not repaired and returned to play within 30 days or as otherwise prescribed by the commission be disposed of in compliance with Section 466.504(g). The commission may suspend or revoke the license of the video lottery retailer or video lottery manager or the registration of a video lottery terminal provider for the distribution, possession, or operation of an unauthorized video lottery terminal. (j) The commission shall adopt rules for approval of video lottery terminals, including requirements for video lottery game tickets, maximum and minimum payout, and maximum wagers. A commission-approved video lottery terminal must meet the following minimum specifications: (1) a surge protector must be installed on the electrical power supply line to each video lottery terminal, a battery or equivalent power backup for the electronic meters must be capable of maintaining the accuracy of all accounting records and video lottery terminal status reports for a period of 180 days after power is disconnected from the video lottery terminal, and the power backup device must be in the compartment specified in Subdivision (3); (2) the operation of each video lottery terminal may not be adversely affected by any static discharge or other electromagnetic interference; (3) the main logic boards of all electronic storage mediums must be located in a separate compartment in the video lottery terminal that is locked and sealed by the commission; (4) the instructions for play of each game must be displayed on the video lottery terminal face or screen, including a display detailing the credits awarded for the occurrence of each possible winning combination of numbers or symbols, and the commission may reject any instructions for play that the commission determines to be incomplete, confusing, or misleading; (5) communication equipment and devices must be installed to enable each video lottery terminal to communicate with the video lottery central system through the use of a communications protocol which must include information retrieval and programs to activate and disable the terminal provided by the commission to each registered video lottery terminal provider; and (6) a video lottery terminal may be operated only if connected to the video lottery system, and play on the terminal may not be conducted unless the terminal is connected to the video lottery central system. Sec. 466.5037. LICENSE AND REGISTRATION HOLDER INVESTIGATIVE TRUST FUND. (a) The investigative trust fund is created as a trust fund to pay all expenses incurred by the commission related to oversight investigations of license and registration holders. The amount initially deposited and the amount maintained in the fund by each license and registration holder is determined by the commission and the money in the fund will be administered as a revolving fund available to the commission. If the initial deposit is not received by the commission within 30 days of the date the commission notifies the license or registration holder of the amount of the initial deposit, the commission may not issue the license or registration. The investigative trust fund is in the state treasury and is held in trust with the comptroller's treasury operations division. (b) Expenses may be advanced from the investigative fund, and expenditures may be made from the fund without regard to any other state law regarding travel expenses of state employees. The commission shall provide each license or registration holder a written accounting at least quarterly of the costs and charges incurred in oversight investigations for that license or registration holder. A license or registration holder shall deposit money not later than the 10th day after receipt of the accounting to maintain the balance of the fund as required by the commission. In the event the license or registration holder is no longer licensed or registered, the commission shall refund to the license or registration holder any balance in the fund paid by the license or registration holder not offset by costs incurred in an investigation for that license or registration holder. Sec. 466.5038. CONSENT TO COMMISSION DETERMINATION. An application for a license, registration, finding of suitability, qualification, or other approval and any other factor attaching to an application under this chapter or Chapter 467 and the rules adopted under this chapter or Chapter 467 constitutes a request to the commission for a decision on the applicant's general suitability, character, integrity, and ability to participate or engage in or be associated with the lottery in the manner or position sought. By filing an application with the commission, the applicant specifically consents to the commission's decision at the commission's election when the application, after filing, becomes moot for any reason other than death. Sec. 466.5039. ABSOLUTE AUTHORITY OF COMMISSION; AUTHORITY TO WAIVE REQUIREMENTS; EFFECT OF DENIAL. (a) The commission has full and absolute power and authority to deny any application or limit, condition, restrict, revoke, or suspend any license, registration, or finding of suitability or approval, and to fine any person licensed, registered, found suitable, or approved for any cause deemed reasonable by the commission. (b) The commission may waive any requirement under this chapter for a finding of suitability of an institutional investor that is a substantial interest holder with respect to the beneficial ownership of the voting securities of a publicly traded corporation if the institutional investor holds the securities for investment purposes only. An institutional investor is not eligible for the waiver, except as otherwise provided by Subsection (c), if the institutional investor beneficially owns, directly or indirectly, more than 15 percent of the voting securities and if any of the voting securities were acquired other than through a debt restructuring. Voting securities acquired before a debt restructuring and retained after a debt restructuring or as a result of an exchange, exercise, or conversion after a debt restructuring, or any securities issued to the institutional investor through a debt restructuring, are considered to have been acquired through a debt restructuring. A waiver granted under this subsection is effective only as long as the institutional investor's direct or indirect beneficial ownership interest in the voting securities meets the limitations set forth in this section, and if the institutional investor's interest exceeds the limitation at any time, the investor is subject to the suitability findings required under this chapter. (c) An institutional investor that has been granted a waiver under Subsection (b) may beneficially own more than 15 percent, but not more than 19 percent, of the voting securities of a publicly traded corporation registered with or licensed by the commission only if the additional ownership results from a stock repurchase program conducted by the publicly traded corporation and on the conditions that the institutional investor does not purchase or otherwise acquire any additional voting securities of the publicly traded corporation that would result in an increase in the institutional investor's ownership percentage and the institutional investor reduces its ownership percentage of the publicly traded corporation to 15 percent or less before the first anniversary of the date the institutional investor receives constructive notice that it exceeded the 15 percent threshold, based on any public filing by the corporation with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. The one-year time period may be extended for a reasonable time on commission approval. (d) An institutional investor may not be considered to hold voting securities of a publicly traded corporation for investment purposes only unless the voting securities were acquired and are held in the ordinary course of business as an institutional investor and not for the purpose of causing, directly or indirectly, the election of a majority of the members of the board of directors, any change in the corporate charter, bylaws, management, policies, or operations of the corporation registered with or licensed by the commission or any of its gaming affiliates, or any other action which the commission finds to be inconsistent with investment purposes only. The following activities may not be considered to be inconsistent with holding voting securities for investment purposes only: (1) voting, directly or indirectly through the delivery of a proxy furnished by the board of directors, on all matters voted on by the holders of the voting securities; (2) serving as a member of any committee of creditors or security holders formed in connection with a debt restructuring; (3) nominating any candidate for election or appointment to the board of directors in connection with a debt restructuring; (4) accepting appointment or election as a member of the board of directors in connection with a debt restructuring and serving in that capacity until the conclusion of the member's term; (5) making financial and other management inquiries of the type normally made by securities analysts for information purposes and not to cause a change in management, policies, or operations; and (6) any other activity the commission determines to be consistent with the investment intent. (e) An application for a waiver under Subsection (b) must include: (1) a description of the institutional investor's business and a statement as to why the institutional investor meets the definition of an institutional investor set forth in this chapter; (2) a certification, made under oath and penalty of perjury, that the voting securities were acquired and are held for investment purposes only as defined in Subsection (b), provided the certification also states that the applicant agrees to be bound by and comply with this chapter and the rules adopted under this chapter, to be subject to the jurisdiction of the courts of this state, and to consent to this state as the choice of forum in the event any dispute, question, or controversy arises regarding the application or any waiver granted under Subsection (b), and a statement by the signatory explaining the basis of the signatory's authority to sign the certification and bind the institutional investor to its terms; (3) a description of all actions, if any, taken or expected to be taken by the institutional investor related to the activities described in Subsection (c); (4) the names, addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, and social security numbers of the officers and directors of the institutional investor, or the officers' and directors' equivalents, as well as the persons that have direct control over the institutional investor's holdings of voting securities of the publicly traded corporation registered with or licensed by the commission; (5) the name, address, telephone number, date of birth, and social security number or federal tax identification number of each person who has the power to direct or control the institutional investor's exercise of its voting rights as a holder of voting securities of the publicly traded corporation registered with or licensed by the commission; (6) the name of each person that beneficially owns more than five percent of the institutional investor's voting securities or other equivalent; (7) a list of the institutional investor's affiliates; (8) a list of all securities of the publicly traded corporation registered with or licensed by the commission that are or were beneficially owned by the institutional investor or its affiliates within the preceding year, setting forth a description of the securities, the amount of the securities, and the date of acquisition or sale of the securities; (9) a list of all regulatory agencies with which the institutional investor or any affiliate that beneficially owns voting securities of the publicly traded corporation registered with or licensed by the commission files periodic reports, and the name, address, and telephone number of the person, if known, to contact at each agency regarding the institutional investor; (10) a disclosure of all criminal or regulatory sanctions imposed during the preceding 10 years and of any administrative or court proceedings filed by any regulatory agency during the preceding five years against the institutional investor, its affiliates, any current officer or director, or any former officer or director whose tenure ended within the preceding twelve months, except that for a former officer or director, the information need be provided only to the extent that it relates to actions arising out of or during the person's tenure with the institutional investor or its affiliates; (11) a copy of the institutional investor's most recent Schedule 13D or 13G and any amendments to that schedule filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission concerning any voting securities of the publicly traded corporation registered with or licensed by the commission; (12) a copy of any filing made under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (15 U.S.C. Section 78a) with respect to the acquisition or proposed acquisition of voting securities of the publicly traded corporation registered with or licensed by the commission; and (13) any additional information the commission may request. (f) An institutional investor that has been granted a waiver of a finding of suitability and that subsequently intends not to hold the investor's voting securities of the publicly traded corporation for investment purposes only or that intends to take any action inconsistent with the investor's prior intent shall, within two business days after the date of the decision, deliver notice to the commission in writing of the change in the investor's investment intent. The commission may then take any action the commission deems appropriate. If the commission finds that an institutional investor has failed to comply with this chapter or is subject to a finding of suitability to protect the public interest, the commission may require the institutional investor to apply for a finding of suitability. Any publicly traded corporation registered with or licensed by the commission shall immediately notify the commission of any information about, fact concerning, or actions of an institutional investor holding any of its voting securities that may materially affect the institutional investor's eligibility to hold a waiver under this section. (g) The commission may waive, either selectively or by general rule, one or more of the requirements of Sections 466.5033 and 466.5034 if the commission makes a written finding that the waiver is consistent with the policy of this state, the public health, safety, and welfare, and the integrity of the lottery. (h) A person whose application for a license or registration has been denied may not have any interest in or association with a video lottery retailer or video lottery manager or any other business conducted in connection with video lottery without prior permission of the commission. Any contract between a person holding a license or registration and a person denied a license or registration must be terminated immediately. If the person denied a license or registration has previously been granted a temporary license or registration, the temporary license or registration expires immediately on denial of the permanent license or registration. Except as otherwise authorized by the commission, a person denied a license or registration may not reapply for any license or registration before the second anniversary of the date of the denial. (i) For purposes of this section, "debt restructuring" means: (1) a proceeding under the United States Bankruptcy Code; or (2) any out-of-court reorganization of a person that is insolvent or generally unable to pay the person's debts as they become due. Sec. 466.504. LIMITATION ON OPERATION OF VIDEO LOTTERY TERMINALS. (a) Except as otherwise provided by the commission, the hours of operation for video lottery terminals are subject to restrictions only as provided by commission rules. The commission by rule may prescribe restrictions on the hours of video lottery terminal operations for purposes determined by the commission, including accounting for and collecting revenue generated by video lottery terminal operations and performing other operational services on the video lottery system. (b) Communication between the video lottery central system and each video lottery terminal must be continuous and on a real-time basis as prescribed by the commission. (c) Except as may be provided by a gaming agreement, placement or movement of video lottery terminals in a video lottery terminal establishment must be consistent with a commission-approved video lottery terminal establishment floor plan. (d) A video lottery retailer or video lottery manager must: (1) be aware of patron conditions and prohibit play by visibly intoxicated patrons; (2) comply with state alcoholic beverage control laws; (3) at all times maintain sufficient change and cash in denominations accepted by video lottery terminals; (4) promptly report all video lottery terminal malfunctions and down-time; (5) install, post, and display prominently any material required by the commission; (6) prohibit illegal gambling and any related paraphernalia; (7) except as otherwise provided by this subchapter, at all times prohibit money lending or other extensions of credit at the video lottery terminal establishment; (8) supervise employees and activities to ensure compliance with all commission rules and this subchapter; (9) maintain continuous camera coverage of all aspects of video lottery game operations, including video lottery terminals; and (10) maintain an entry log for each video lottery terminal on the premises of the video lottery terminal establishment and maintain and submit complete records on receipt of each video lottery terminal on the premises as determined by the commission. (e) A video lottery retailer at all times must hold a valid pari-mutuel wagering license, except that the commission may allow a video lottery retailer whose pari-mutuel wagering license has lapsed or been revoked, suspended, or surrendered to reapply for a license in order to operate the video lottery terminal establishment or by rule may establish a period not to exceed two years during which time the video lottery terminal establishment may be operated pending acquisition by a person qualified and licensed under this chapter to operate video lottery terminals. If the video lottery retailer is not licensed before the second anniversary of the date a license lapses or is revoked, suspended, or surrendered or a new video lottery manager or video lottery retailer is not licensed and authorized to operate the facility before the second anniversary, the racetrack shall permanently lose eligibility under this chapter to operate video lottery terminals. Subject to the commission's discretion, the video lottery retailer may continue to operate the video lottery terminal establishment after the second anniversary only to satisfy the establishment's existing outstanding debt attributable to video lottery operation. (f) All transportation and movement of video lottery terminals into or within this state is prohibited, except as permitted by this subchapter and approved by the commission. (g) An obsolete video lottery terminal or a video lottery terminal that is no longer in operation must be promptly reported to the commission and, if taken out of use and play, must immediately be sold or otherwise transferred to a registered video lottery terminal provider or other persons in jurisdictions outside this state for use in the jurisdictions. (h) A video lottery retailer or a video lottery manager, if applicable, is responsible for the management of video lottery game operations, including validation and payment of prizes and the management of cashiers, food and beverage workers, floor workers, security personnel, the security system, building completion, janitorial services, landscaping design, and maintenance. Nothing in this subsection limits the authority of the commission, the Department of Public Safety, or another law enforcement agency to administer and enforce this chapter as related to video lottery. (i) The commission shall adopt rules governing: (1) the amount a player may be charged to play each video lottery game; and (2) the prizes and credits that may be awarded to the player of a video lottery game. (j) The video lottery central system provider shall pay for the installation and operation of commission-approved communication technology to provide real-time communication between each video lottery terminal and the video lottery central system. (k) In addition to other requirements under this chapter relating to video lottery, a video lottery retailer or a video lottery manager at all times shall: (1) operate only video lottery terminals that are distributed by a registered video lottery terminal provider and provide a secure location for the placement, operation, and play of the video lottery terminals; (2) prevent any person from tampering with or interfering with the operation of a video lottery terminal; (3) ensure that communication technology from the video lottery central system to the video lottery terminals is connected and prevent any person from tampering or interfering with the operation of the connection; (4) ensure that video lottery terminals are in the sight and control of designated employees of the video lottery retailer or video lottery manager and in the sight of video cameras as required under this subchapter; (5) ensure that video lottery terminals are placed and remain placed in the specific locations in the video lottery terminal establishment that are consistent with the retailer's or manager's commission-approved floor plan; (6) monitor video lottery terminals to prevent access to or play by persons who are under 18 years of age or who are visibly intoxicated; (7) refuse to accept a credit card payment from a player for the exchange or purchase of video lottery game credits or for an advance of coins, currency, vouchers, or tokens to be used by a player to play video lottery games, refuse to extend credit, in any manner, to a player that enables the player to play a video lottery game, and ensure that all persons doing business at the video lottery terminal establishment, including a person operating or managing an auxiliary service such as a restaurant, refuse to accept a credit card payment or to extend credit in a manner prohibited by this subdivision, except that: (A) a license holder may cash a check for a player if the license holder exercises reasonable caution cashing the check and does not cash checks for any player in an amount exceeding $1,000 in any 24-hour period; and (B) an automated teller machine may be located at a video lottery terminal establishment in compliance with the Texas Racing Act (Article 179e, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes) or an effective gaming agreement; (8) pay all credits won by a player on presentment of a valid winning video lottery game ticket; (9) conduct only the video lottery game advertising and promotional activities consistent with criteria prescribed by the commission, including prohibiting undue influence, offensive language, and anything that would affect the integrity of video lottery operation; (10) install, post, and display prominently at the licensed location redemption information and other informational or promotional materials as required by the commission; (11) maintain general liability insurance coverage for the video lottery terminal establishment and all video lottery terminals in the amounts required by the commission; (12) assume liability for money lost or stolen from any video lottery terminal; and (13) annually submit an audited financial statement to the commission in a format approved by the commission. (l) The commission by rule shall establish the maximum number of video lottery terminals that may be operated at each video lottery terminal establishment operated by a video lottery retailer or video lottery manager based on factors prescribed by commission rule, including demographics, to ensure that the number of permits to operate video lottery terminals requested by the retailer or manager is not detrimental to the public health, safety, welfare, and economic development of this state and will result in the optimization of revenue for the support of the public education system in this state and other state governmental programs. (m) The commission shall determine the number of video lottery terminals that may only be operated by an Indian tribe in connection with the tribe's video lottery system in accordance with the applicable gaming agreement entered into pursuant to this chapter and the statutory criteria prescribed by Subsection (l). Sec. 466.5041. TECHNICAL STANDARDS FOR VIDEO LOTTERY EQUIPMENT. The commission by rule shall provide minimum technical standards for video lottery equipment that may be operated in this state. Sec. 466.5042. INCIDENT REPORTS. A video lottery retailer or video lottery manager shall record all unusual occurrences related to gaming activity in a video lottery terminal establishment operated by the retailer or manager. Each incident, without regard to materiality, shall be assigned a sequential number and, at a minimum, the following information must be recorded in a permanent record prepared in accordance with commission rules to ensure the integrity of the record: (1) the number assigned to the incident; (2) the date and time of the incident; (3) the nature of the incident; (4) each person involved in the incident; and (5) the name of the employee or other agent of the video lottery retailer or video lottery manager who investigated the incident. Sec. 466.5043. EXCLUSION OF PERSONS. (a) The commission shall compile a list of persons that the video lottery retailer or video lottery manager must bar from a video lottery terminal establishment based on a person's criminal history or association with criminal offenders or because the person poses a threat to the integrity of the lottery. The video lottery retailer or video lottery manager shall employ the retailer's or manager's best efforts to exclude such persons from entry into the establishment. The video lottery retailer or video lottery manager may exclude a person for any reason not related to the person's race, sex, national origin, physical disability, or religion. (b) A person who believes the person may be playing video lottery games on a compulsive basis may request that the person's name be placed on the list compiled by the commission under Subsection (a). All video lottery game employees shall receive training in identifying players with a compulsive playing problem and shall be instructed to ask the players to leave the establishment. Signs and other materials shall be readily available to direct compulsive players to agencies that offer appropriate counseling. Sec. 466.505. ACCOUNTING, FINANCIAL, AND OTHER REPORTING PROCEDURES. (a) Not later than the fifth day after acquiring knowledge of any litigation relating to a video lottery terminal establishment, including a criminal proceeding, a proceeding involving an issue related to racing activities that impact video lottery operations, and a matter related to character or reputation relevant to a person's suitability under this subchapter, a video lottery retailer or video lottery manager shall report the litigation to the commission. (b) All internal procedures and administrative and accounting controls of a video lottery retailer or video lottery manager must be approved by the commission. All internal procedures and administrative and accounting controls of a video lottery terminal provider that relate to the manufacturing and distribution of video lottery terminals to be used in this state must be approved by the commission. The commission by rule shall establish general accounting and auditing requirements and internal control standards for video lottery retailers and video lottery managers. (c) A video lottery retailer or video lottery manager shall submit financial and operating information and statistical data to the commission in a format approved by the commission so that the financial operating position of the retailer or manager and performance and trends of the video lottery game industry in this state may be evaluated. (d) A video lottery retailer or video lottery manager shall keep a database of video lottery terminal events. The commission by rule shall determine what constitutes a video lottery terminal event for purposes of this subsection. Sec. 466.5051. EMPLOYEE REPORTING. (a) On or before the 15th day of each month, a video lottery retailer or video lottery manager shall submit to the commission an employee report for the video lottery terminal establishment operated by the retailer or manager. The report must provide for each employee of the retailer or manager the employee's name, job title, date of birth, and social security number. (b) The employee report is confidential and may not be disclosed except under commission order or in accordance with Section 466.022(d). (c) The commission may conduct criminal history investigations for employees of video lottery retailers and video lottery managers. (d) The commission may prohibit an employee from performing any act relating to video lottery terminals if the commission finds that an employee has: (1) committed, attempted, or conspired to do any act prohibited by this chapter; (2) concealed or refused to disclose any material fact in any investigation by the commission; (3) committed, attempted, or conspired to commit larceny or embezzlement; (4) been convicted in any jurisdiction of an offense involving or relating to gambling; (5) accepted employment in a position for which the employee is required to have commission approval after approval was denied for a reason involving personal unsuitability or after failing to apply for a license or approval on commission request; (6) been prohibited under color of governmental authority from being present on the premises of any gaming establishment or any establishment where pari-mutuel wagering is conducted for any reason relating to improper gambling activity or for any illegal act; (7) willfully defied any legislative investigative committee or other officially constituted body acting on behalf of the United States or any state, county, or municipality that sought to investigate alleged or potential crimes relating to gaming, corruption of public officials, or any organized criminal activities; or (8) been convicted of any felony or any crime involving moral turpitude. (e) The commission may prohibit an employee from performing any act relating to video lottery terminals based on any reason the commission finds appropriate, including a refusal by a regulatory authority to issue a license, permit, or other approval for the employee to engage in or be involved with the lottery or with regulated gaming or pari-mutuel wagering in any jurisdiction, and a revocation or suspension of any gaming or wagering license, permit, or approval. (f) In this section, "employee" includes any person connected directly with or compensated by an applicant or license holder as an agent, personal representative, consultant, independent contractor, or lobbyist for the advocacy of the adoption or amendment of a law related to gaming or lottery activities or the furtherance of gaming or lottery activities in any jurisdiction or as otherwise specified by commission rule. Sec. 466.5052. REPORT OF VIOLATIONS. A person who holds a license or registration under this subchapter shall immediately report a violation or suspected violation of this chapter or a rule adopted under this chapter by any license or registration holder, by an employee of a license or registration holder, or by any person on the premises of a video lottery terminal establishment, whether or not associated with the license or registration holder. Sec. 466.506. SECURITY. (a) In addition to the security provisions applicable under Section 466.020, a video lottery retailer or video lottery manager shall comply with the following security procedures: (1) all video lottery terminals must be continuously monitored through the use of a closed-circuit television system that records activity for a continuous 24-hour period and all video tapes or other media used to store video images shall be retained for at least 30 days and made available to the commission on request; (2) access to video lottery terminal locations shall be restricted to persons over the age of 18; (3) the video lottery retailer or video lottery manager must submit for commission approval a security plan and a floor plan of the area where video lottery terminals are to be operated showing video lottery terminal locations and security camera mount locations; and (4) each license holder shall employ at least the minimum number of private security personnel the commission determines is necessary to provide for safe and approved operation of the video lottery terminal establishment and the safety and well-being of the players. Private security personnel must be present during all hours of operation at each video lottery terminal establishment. (b) An agent or employee of the commission or the Department of Public Safety or other law enforcement personnel may be present at a video lottery terminal establishment at any time. (c) The commission may adopt rules to impose additional surveillance and security requirements related to video lottery terminal establishments and the operation of video lottery terminals. Sec. 466.507. VIDEO LOTTERY TERMINAL ESTABLISHMENT VISITS. The commission or the commission's representative after displaying appropriate identification and credentials has the free and unrestricted right to enter the premises of a video lottery terminal establishment and to enter any other locations involved in operation or support of video lottery at all times to examine the systems and to inspect and copy the records of a video lottery retailer or video lottery manager pertaining to the operation of video lottery. Sec. 466.508. SUPERVISION OF CERTAIN VIDEO LOTTERY RETAILERS AND VIDEO LOTTERY MANAGERS. (a) The legislature hereby finds and declares that: (1) the stability and continuity of video lottery retailers and video lottery managers of racetracks in this state are important to this state's generation of revenue for the public education system and other state governmental programs; (2) any closure of a video lottery retailer because of the surrender, lapse, revocation, or suspension of the retailer's license or the license of a video lottery manager at the video lottery terminal establishment of a video lottery retailer may cause unnecessary financial hardship to employees, creditors, and investors and may have an adverse economic effect on this state's budget; (3) public confidence and trust in the ability of this state to control lottery operations must not be sacrificed by any relaxation of strict controls merely to allow video lottery terminals to continue to operate; and (4) placing the management and control of a video lottery retailer or video lottery manager whose license is surrendered, lapsed, suspended, or revoked under a competent supervisory official may ensure the proper regulation of the establishment while maintaining the establishment's value for creditors and investors, protecting the interests of other persons, avoiding any disruption of the revenue generated for the public education system and other state governmental programs and, therefore, promoting the general welfare of this state. (b) In this section, "supervisor" means the person appointed by a district court in Travis County as a fiduciary to manage and control a video lottery terminal establishment at a racetrack in accordance with this subchapter. (c) The commission shall adopt rules pertaining to the administration of a video lottery terminal establishment by a supervisor and any other matters relating to a supervisor which are not inconsistent with this section. The commission must provide for a hearing regarding the appointment of a supervisor within 15 days after the date of the suspension or revocation of a license. The commission must provide for notice to the video lottery retailer or video lottery manager, or both, of the meeting and afford the video lottery retailer and video lottery manager the opportunity to be heard concerning the appointment. At the hearing, the commission shall exercise its discretion to determine whether to petition the district court for appointment of a supervisor in accordance with this subchapter. (d) Except as provided by Subsection (i), if the license of any person whose license is predicate to the operation of a video lottery retailer or video lottery manager is revoked or suspended by the commission, or lapses or is surrendered because the video lottery terminal establishment or the ownership of the establishment has been conveyed or transferred to a secured party receiver or trustee who does not hold the licenses necessary to operate the establishment, the commission may ex parte petition a district court in Travis County, the exclusive venue for the petition, for appointment by the court of a supervisor to manage the establishment. The court shall give preference to supervision hearings brought under this section. The petition is discretionary with the commission and this section does not create any property right or interest in continued operation of video lottery terminals at the establishment. (e) The petition must contain the names of two or more persons who the commission believes are suitable and qualified to manage a video lottery terminal establishment as a video lottery manager and are available for appointment as a supervisor unless, in the opinion of the commission, only one person is available who is qualified to serve, in which case the commission may name only that person. (f) On receipt of a petition under this section, the court shall appoint a person who is listed in the petition as supervisor of the video lottery establishment. The court shall immediately notify the commission of the appointment. On receipt of notice from the court, the commission shall immediately notify all interested persons. (g) The petition may be presented under this section even if the time period has not expired for a petition for judicial review of the final commission determination to revoke or suspend the video lottery retailer's or video lottery manager's license. (h) The commission may not petition any court for the appointment of a supervisor under this section if: (1) a rehearing has been granted by the commission to the license holder on the revocation or suspension of the license; and (2) the rehearing has not been concluded. (i) If the commission does not petition for the appointment of a supervisor, a court of this state may not issue an order that allows a video lottery retailer or video lottery manager to continue operation of a video lottery terminal establishment. (j) If a pari-mutuel wagering license required for a video lottery retailer's or video lottery manager's license under this subchapter is revoked, is suspended, lapses, or is otherwise surrendered, the commission may appoint a supervisor to operate the video lottery terminal establishment for the exclusive benefit of the state for a period not to exceed two years or longer in accordance with Section 466.504(e) during which time the video lottery retailer or video lottery manager may seek reinstatement of the pari-mutuel wagering license from the Texas Racing Commission or the supervisor may either make provisions for the conclusion of operations or administer the sale of the property under this section to a new license holder. During any period of supervision under this subsection, the commission must pay to the owner of the video lottery establishment the fair market value for rental of the facility. (k) A court of this state may not issue any order to stay the appointment of a supervisor appointed under this section or to enjoin a supervisor from exercising the supervisor's duties and powers under this section, whether or not a petition has been filed for judicial review of a determination to revoke or suspend the license required for operation of the video lottery terminal establishment. (l) The court that appoints the supervisor shall allow reasonable compensation that may not exceed the amount of compensation or proceeds that would otherwise have been paid to the video lottery retailer or video lottery manager, out of the revenue of the video lottery terminals operated at the video lottery terminal establishment, for the services, costs, and expenses of the supervisor and for any other persons whom the supervisor may employ to assist in the supervisor's duties. (m) A supervisor is subject to this chapter and any rules adopted under this chapter as if the supervisor is a licensed video lottery manager of a video lottery terminal establishment or a video lottery retailer. The court that appoints the supervisor has jurisdiction over all powers and duties of the supervisor in any proceeding relating to the exercise of the powers and duties and may issue any order or decree in the proceeding that the court determines necessary. After the court appoints a supervisor, the license of the video lottery retailer or video lottery manager is considered transferred and the previously licensed operation is considered a continuing operation for a period not to exceed two years. (n) On appointment of a supervisor, the right, title, and interest of all persons in a video lottery terminal establishment are extinguished and automatically vested in the supervisor, subject to any liens, claims, and encumbrances on the establishment. The supervisor shall protect the money and property acquired by managing the property on a prudent businesslike basis. With regard to any areas of the racetrack other than the video lottery terminal establishment, the supervisor may only operate the areas as allowed by the former license holder. (o) The supervisor shall: (1) take immediately into his possession all property of the video lottery terminal establishment, including money, accounts, books, records, and evidences of debts owed to the establishment; and (2) continue the business of the establishment. (p) The supervisor may: (1) hire, discipline, and dismiss employees of the video lottery terminal establishment and fix the compensation of the employees; (2) engage independent legal counsel and accountants; (3) settle or compromise with any debtor or creditor of the establishment; (4) prosecute actions on behalf of or defend actions against the establishment; (5) enter into any contract or borrow money on behalf of the establishment and pledge, mortgage, or otherwise encumber the establishment's property as security for the repayment of any loan, except that the power to borrow money or encumber property is limited by any provision of an existing document of credit; (6) grant or renew leases of establishment property; and (7) perform any act on behalf of the video lottery terminal establishment that an owner, video lottery retailer, or video lottery manager is entitled to perform. (q) Subsection (p) does not authorize the sale of the video lottery terminal establishment by the supervisor. (r) If any property of a video lottery terminal establishment is withheld from a supervisor after the supervisor's appointment, the supervisor may petition the district court that appointed the supervisor for an order compelling delivery of the property to the supervisor. (s) This section does not affect the right of a creditor to commence or continue foreclosure or other proceedings to collect a secured or unsecured debt, and, consistent with the public policy of this chapter, the appointment of a supervisor may not be treated as an event precipitating a default or acceleration under any note, lease, deed of trust, or other extension of credit. Except as provided by this section, the supervisor is not entitled to assert any right, claim, or defense other than one available to the license holder under the right, claim, or defense. (t) Except as otherwise provided by Subsection (u) and subject to prior approval by the court that appointed the supervisor, a supervisor, consistent with commission rules, may make periodic distribution of earnings to the former legal owner of the video lottery terminal establishment. (u) On petition to the court by the commission, earnings that would otherwise be distributed under Subsection (t) shall, except as otherwise provided by this subsection, be paid into the court pending judicial review of the commission's final determination. An amount of the earnings that represents the reasonable value of the premises must be retained by the supervisor for distribution to the former legal owner. If the commission has ordered suspension or revocation of a license, the commission's order of suspension or revocation is upheld after final judicial review, and the video lottery terminal establishment is sold under this section, all earnings, except the amount representing the reasonable rental value of the premises as determined by the court, that were paid into the court under this section are forfeited and must be deposited to the credit of the state video lottery account. If that order is reversed or otherwise modified and the former legal owner regains a license, the earnings must be distributed to the owner. (v) A supervisor shall file with the court that appointed the supervisor and the commission reports on the administration of the video lottery terminal establishment in the form and at the intervals prescribed by the court. The reports may be made available for inspection by any creditor of the video lottery terminal establishment or any person with a substantial interest in the establishment, and the court may direct that copies of the reports be mailed to the creditors or persons. (w) On satisfaction of all requirements under Subsection (x), the supervisor shall petition the court that appointed the supervisor for approval of a sale under this section, providing notice to parties as the court may direct. If the court grants approval, the supervisor shall carry out the sale on the terms and conditions agreed to between the parties. (x) Any person who owns an interest in a video lottery terminal establishment on the date of a supervisor's appointment may secure a willing and able buyer for the establishment before the date by which the supervisor must offer the property for sale under Subsection (y). A person or persons who owned a majority of the interest in the establishment on the date of the supervisor's appointment must approve the terms and conditions of the proposed sale and the buyer must obtain a license to operate the video lottery terminal establishment within six months after the date by which the supervisor must offer the property for sale under Subsection (y). (y) Except as provided in Subsection (z), the supervisor of a video lottery terminal establishment: (1) shall offer the establishment for sale: (A) at any time before the applicable date provided by Paragraph (B), (C), or (D) if requested in writing by the owners of a majority of the equity interest in the establishment to initiate sale proceedings; (B) on the date that is six months after the date the commission refuses to renew a license for failure of a license holder to fulfill a condition of the license; (C) if a petition for judicial review of the commission's determination to revoke or suspend the license is not filed, on the date that is six months after the last date on which a petition for judicial review could have been filed; or (D) if a petition for judicial review is filed, on the date that is six months after exhaustion of any right of appeal in the courts of this state resulting in a final determination that upholds the revocation or suspension of the license; (2) shall exert the supervisor's best efforts to secure a buyer for the video lottery terminal establishment, including advertising, to assure a fair price and may employ brokers and other persons to assist in securing a suitable buyer; (3) may not accept any offer to purchase the video lottery terminal establishment made by a person who does not hold a license issued under this subchapter, except that a supervisor may accept an offer which is contingent on the buyer's obtaining a license; and (4) shall petition the court that appointed the supervisor for approval of the terms and conditions of the sale, and if the court approves the sale, the supervisor shall, if the buyer obtains a license to operate the video lottery terminal establishment, consummate the sale. (z) The supervisor may not offer the video lottery terminal establishment for sale if a timely sale of the establishment has been consummated under Subsections (w) and (x). (aa) All known creditors and other persons designated by the court who are known to have had a legal ownership interest in a video lottery terminal establishment immediately before the appointment of the supervisor must be notified of the proposed sale at least 30 days before the date of the hearing on the petition for approval of the sale. The notice must be delivered personally or sent by registered or certified mail to the last known address of each person. The court shall order that notice be published in a newspaper of general circulation in the county in which the establishment is located. If the address of a creditor or owner is not known, or personal service is not possible for some other reason, service by publication shall be considered adequate. Any person notified as provided by this subsection may file with the court a statement of objections to the proposed sale, including all grounds for the objections, at least 10 days before the hearing. (bb) On completion of a sale under this section, the appointment of the supervisor terminates, except that the supervisor shall convey the supervisor's right, title, and interest in the property of the video lottery terminal establishment to the buyer and shall pay the net proceeds of the sale to the persons who owned the property at the time the supervisor acquired the establishment, or their successors or assignees, according to their respective interests. (cc) A person who suffers or is likely to suffer direct financial injury as the result of an act or omission of a supervisor may file an objection with the commission to the suitability of the supervisor. The person may petition the court that made the appointment for an accounting or for a review of the supervisor's qualifications or performance. (dd) If at any time the district court finds that a supervisor is not qualified or available to serve as supervisor, the court shall request from the commission the names of two or more persons the commission believes are suitable and qualified to manage a video lottery terminal establishment and are available to serve as a supervisor unless, in the opinion of the commission, only one person is available who is qualified to serve, in which case the commission may name only that person. (ee) The commission, at any time after appointment of a supervisor, may petition the court for the removal of the supervisor and the appointment of a new supervisor or for the termination of the supervision. (ff) The appointment of a supervisor terminates if any court of this state or of the United States overrules the commission's decision to revoke or suspend the license for operation of the video lottery terminal establishment or if the commission's petition for termination is granted, except that the supervisor shall transfer to the appropriate persons their respective interests in the establishment. (gg) A supervisor is not personally liable for: (1) any secured or unsecured debt of the video lottery terminal establishment incurred before, during, or after the supervisor's appointment; (2) any penalty which may be assessed against a former license holder for failure to pay or the late payment of any license fee or tax imposed under this chapter; or (3) any act or omission made by the supervisor in the exercise of prudent business judgment or under an order of any court. (hh) A person commits an offense if during the pendency of any proceeding before the commission that may result in the appointment of a supervisor or during the period of supervision the person sells, leases, or otherwise conveys for less than full market value or pledges as security any property of a video lottery terminal establishment, removes from this state or secretes from the commission or the supervisor any property, money, books, or records of the video lottery terminal establishment, including evidences of debts owed to the establishment. An offense under this subsection is a third degree felony.
[Sections 466.509-466.510 reserved for expansion]
Sec. 466.511. INDEMNIFICATION, INSURANCE, AND BONDING REQUIREMENTS; PATRON DISPUTES. (a) A license or registration holder shall indemnify and hold harmless this state, the commission, and all officers and employees of this state and the commission from any and all claims which may be asserted against a license holder, the commission, this state, and the members, officers, employees, and authorized agents of this state or the commission arising from the license holder's participation in the video lottery system authorized under this chapter. (b) Surety and insurance required under this subchapter shall be issued by companies or financial institutions financially rated "A" or better as rated by A.M. Best Company or other rating organization designated by the commission and duly licensed, admitted, and authorized to do business in this state, or by other surety approved by the commission. (c) The commission shall be named as the obligee in each required surety and as an additional insured in each required insurance contract. (d) A video lottery retailer or video lottery manager may not be self-insured with regard to video lottery terminal operations under this section. (e) The commission by rule shall establish minimum insurance coverage requirements for video lottery retailers, video lottery managers, and video lottery terminal providers, including: (1) insurance for performance; (2) insurance against losses caused by fraudulent or dishonest acts by an officer or employee of a video lottery retailer, video lottery manager, or video lottery terminal provider; (3) general liability insurance; (4) property insurance; (5) liability insurance for drivers and vehicles employed by the video lottery retailer or video lottery manager; and (6) crime insurance for the location. (f) This state and the commission are not liable for any video lottery terminal malfunction or error by a video lottery retailer, video lottery manager, or video lottery terminal provider that causes credit to be wrongfully awarded or denied to players. Any dispute arising between a player and a video lottery retailer or video lottery manager shall be resolved by the commission as follows: (1) if the fair market value of the prize is less than $1,000, the dispute shall be resolved in accordance with the commission-approved written policies of the video lottery retailer or video lottery manager and without any relief available from the commission or this state; or (2) if the fair market value of the prize is $1,000 or more, the dispute shall be resolved by the commission in the commission's sole discretion in accordance with commission rules. (g) A court of this state does not have jurisdiction to review the decision of the commission resolving a dispute between a player and a video lottery retailer, video lottery manager, or video lottery terminal provider. Sec. 466.512. COLLECTION OF REVENUE; ACCOUNTING AND DISTRIBUTION OF NET TERMINAL INCOME. (a) The commission shall deposit funds received under this subchapter to the state video lottery account. The state video lottery account is a special account in the general revenue fund. The account consists of all revenue received by this state from the operation of video lottery terminals. Except as otherwise provided by this section or another provision of this subchapter, money in the fund may be used solely to fund public education and the administration of the video lottery system. (a-1) Except as provided by Subsection (b), all revenue received by this state from the operation of the video lottery system shall be distributed solely to reimburse the commission until the $5 million authorized under this section is repaid to the state lottery account. From funds previously appropriated to the commission for the state fiscal biennium ending August 31, 2005, and notwithstanding Section 466.355(b), the commission is authorized to expend an amount not to exceed $5 million from the state lottery account during that biennium to establish the video lottery system in accordance with this chapter. From revenue deposited in the state video lottery account during that biennium, the commission is hereby appropriated the amount necessary to reimburse the state lottery account for the total amount of funds expended to establish the video lottery system from the appropriation to the state lottery account, and the commission shall deposit that amount to the state lottery account. This subsection expires January 1, 2007. (b) Two percent of the net terminal income distributed to this state under Subsection (c) shall be allocated to the commission to defray expenses incurred in administering this chapter related to video lottery including expenses incurred to operate the video lottery central system. All money allocated to the commission under this subsection may be retained by the commission to defray expenses of administering this chapter related to video lottery and shall be deposited in the state video lottery account. (c) Net terminal income derived from the operation of video lottery games in this state is allocated as follows: (1) net terminal income generated from video lottery terminals operated at racetracks shall be distributed 40 percent to the racetracks and 60 percent to this state; and (2) net terminal income generated from video lottery terminals operated on Indian lands under a gaming agreement authorized under this subchapter shall be distributed as set forth in the gaming agreement; provided that the agreement must provide that this state shall receive no more than 25 percent of the net terminal income. (d) The commission shall require a video lottery retailer or video lottery manager to establish a separate electronic funds transfer account for depositing money from video lottery terminal operations, making payments to the commission or its designee, and receiving payments from the commission or its designee. A video lottery retailer or video lottery manager may not make payments to the commission in cash. As authorized by the commission, a video lottery retailer or video lottery manager may make payments to the commission by cashier's check. (e) The commission at least daily shall transfer this state's share of net terminal income of a video lottery retailer or video lottery manager to the commission through the electronic transfer of the funds. The commission by rule shall establish the procedures for depositing money from video lottery terminal operations into electronic funds transfer accounts, as well as procedures regarding the handling of money from video lottery terminal operations. This state's share of net terminal income from video lottery terminal operations shall be held in trust for the state. (f) Unless otherwise directed by the commission, a video lottery retailer or a video lottery manager shall maintain in its account this state's share of the net terminal income from the operation of video lottery terminals, to be electronically transferred by the commission on dates established by the commission. On a license holder's failure to maintain this balance, the commission may disable all of a license holder's video lottery terminals until full payment of all amounts due is made. Interest shall accrue on any unpaid balance at a rate consistent with the amount charged under Section 111.060, Tax Code. The interest shall begin to accrue on the date payment is due to the commission. In the commission's sole discretion, rather than disable a license holder's video lottery terminals, the commission may elect to impose a fine on a license holder in an amount determined by the commission not to exceed $250,000 for each violation. If the license holder fails to remedy the violation, including payment of any amounts assessed by or due to this state, within ten days, the commission may disable the license holder's video lottery terminals or use any other means for collection as provided by the penalty chart established by the commission. (g) The license holder is solely responsible for resolving any income discrepancies between actual money collected and the net terminal income reported by the video lottery central system. Unless an accounting discrepancy is resolved in favor of the video lottery retailer or video lottery manager, the commission may not make any credit adjustments. Any accounting discrepancies which cannot otherwise be resolved shall be resolved in favor of the commission. (h) A video lottery retailer and video lottery manager shall remit payment as directed by the commission if the electronic transfer of funds is not operational or the commission notifies the license holder that other remittance is required. The license holder shall report this state's share of net terminal income, and remit the amount generated from the terminals during the reporting period. (i) The commission has the right to examine all accounts, bank accounts, financial statements, and records in a license holder's possession or control or in which the license holder has an interest and the license holder shall authorize and direct all third parties in possession or in control of the accounts or records to allow examination of any of those accounts or records by the commission. (j) A video lottery retailer or video lottery manager shall furnish to the commission all information and bank authorizations required to facilitate the timely transfer of money to the commission. A video lottery retailer or video lottery manager must provide the commission 30 days' advance notice of any proposed account changes in information and bank authorizations to assure the uninterrupted electronic transfer of funds. The commission is not responsible for any interruption or delays in the transfer of funds. The video lottery retailer or video lottery manager is responsible for any interruption or delay in the transfer of funds. Sec. 466.5121. DEDUCTIONS FROM VIDEO LOTTERY PROCEEDS AT HORSE RACETRACKS. A racetrack that conducts horse races under the Texas Racing Act (Article 179e, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes) shall allocate 13.5 percent of its share of the video lottery proceeds retained under Section 466.512(c) to a purse fund to be used as follows: (1) 90 percent of the amount deposited in the fund shall be used to supplement purses at the racetrack; and (2) 10 percent of the amount deposited in the fund shall be transferred to the following breed registries in the specified amounts: (A) two percent to the breed registry for Arabian horses; (B) one percent to the breed registry for Paint horses; (C) 29.10 percent to the breed registry for Quarter horses; and (D) 67.90 percent to the breed registry for Thoroughbreds. Sec. 466.5122. DEDUCTIONS FROM VIDEO LOTTERY PROCEEDS AT GREYHOUND RACETRACKS. A racetrack that conducts greyhound races under the Texas Racing Act (Article 179e, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes) shall allocate 13.5 percent of its share of the video lottery proceeds retained under Section 466.512(c) to a purse fund to be used as follows: (1) 90 percent of the amount deposited in the fund shall be used to supplement purses at the racetrack; and (2) 10 percent of the amount deposited in the fund shall be transferred to the breed registry. Sec. 466.5123. LIABILITY OF VIDEO LOTTERY RETAILER AND VIDEO LOTTERY MANAGER. A video lottery retailer, video lottery manager, or both, are liable to the commission for the state's share of net terminal income reported by the video lottery central system. Net terminal income received by the video lottery retailer or video lottery manager shall be held in trust for the benefit of this state before delivery of the state's share to the commission or electronic transfer to the state treasury, and the video lottery retailer or video lottery manager, or both, are liable to the commission for the full amount of the money held in trust. If the video lottery retailer or video lottery manager is not an individual, each officer, director, or owner of the video lottery retailer or video lottery manager is personally liable to the commission for the full amount of the money held in trust, except that shareholders of a publicly held corporation shall be liable in an amount not to exceed the value of their equity investment. Sec. 466.513. PRIZES. (a) Payment of prizes is the sole and exclusive responsibility of the video lottery retailer or video lottery manager. A prize may not be paid by the commission or this state except as otherwise authorized. (b) Nothing in this subchapter limits the ability of a video lottery retailer or video lottery manager to provide promotional prizes, including wide area progressive networks, in addition to prize payouts regulated by the commission. (c) A video lottery ticket is redeemable only for 180 days following the date of issuance. If a claim is not made for prize money on or before the 180th day after the date on which the video lottery ticket was issued, the prize money becomes the property of this state. The commission shall enact rules consistent with this section governing the use and redemption of prizes and credits recorded on electronic player account records, such as players' club cards and smart cards. Sec. 466.514. REVOCATION OF LICENSE, REGISTRATION, OR OTHER REGULATORY APPROVAL. (a) The commission shall revoke or suspend a license, registration, or other regulatory approval issued under this subchapter if the license or registration holder or holder of the approval at any time fails to meet the eligibility requirements set forth in this subchapter. (b) Failure to timely remit revenue generated by video lottery terminals to the commission or any tax or other fee owed to this state as demonstrated by report from the applicable taxing authority or to timely file any report or information required under this subchapter as a condition of any license, registration, or other approval issued under this subchapter may be grounds for suspension or revocation, or both, of a license, registration, or other approval issued under this subchapter. Sec. 466.5141. DEPRIVATION HEARING FOR REVOCATION OR SUSPENSION OF REGISTRATION OR LICENSE. (a) Before the commission revokes or suspends a video lottery terminal provider's registration or video lottery retailer's or video lottery manager's license, or imposes monetary penalties for a violation of this subchapter, the commission shall provide written notification to the license or registration holder of the revocation, the period of suspension, or the monetary penalty. The notice shall include: (1) the effective date of the revocation or the period of suspension or the amount of the monetary penalty, as applicable; (2) each reason for the revocation, suspension, or penalty; (3) an explanation of the evidence supporting the reasons; (4) an opportunity to present the license or registration holder's position in response on or before the 15th day after the effective date of the revocation; and (5) a statement explaining the person's right to an administrative hearing to determine whether the revocation, suspension, or penalty is warranted. (b) The notice required under Subsection (a) must be made by personal delivery or by mail to the person's mailing address as it appears on the commission's records. (c) To obtain an administrative hearing on a suspension, revocation, or penalty under this section, a person must submit a written request for a hearing to the commission not later than the 20th day after the date notice is delivered personally or is mailed. If the commission receives a timely request under this subsection, the commission shall provide the person with an opportunity for a hearing as soon as practicable. If the commission does not receive a timely request under this subsection, the commission may impose the penalty, revoke or suspend a license or registration, or sustain the revocation or suspension without a hearing. Except as provided by Subsection (d) the hearing must be held not earlier than the 11th day after the date the written request is submitted to the commission. (d) The commission may provide that a revocation or suspension takes effect on receipt of notice under Subsection (a) if the commission finds that the action is necessary to prevent or remedy a threat to public health, safety, or welfare. The commission by rule shall establish a nonexclusive list of violations that present a threat to the public health, safety, or welfare. A hearing on a revocation or suspension that takes effect on receipt of notice must be held not later than the 14th day after the date the commission receives the request for hearing under Subsection (c). The revocation or suspension continues in effect until the hearing is completed. If the hearing is continued, the revocation or suspension shall continue in effect beyond the 14-day period at the request of the license or registration holder or on a finding of good cause by the commission or administrative law judge. (e) To prevail in a post-deprivation administrative hearing under this section, the license or registration holder must demonstrate by clear and convincing evidence that the deprivation or imposition of a penalty was unwarranted or otherwise unlawful. The post-deprivation hearing may be conducted by the commission or referred to the State Office of Administrative Hearings. The administrative record created by the hearing conducted by the State Office of Administrative Hearings shall be provided to the commission for review and determination on the revocation or suspension. If an administrative law judge of the State Office of Administrative Hearings conducts a hearing under this section and the proposal for decision supports the commission's position, the administrative law judge shall include in the proposal a finding of the costs, fees, expenses, and reasonable and necessary attorney's fees the state incurred in bringing the proceeding. The commission may adopt the findings for costs, fees, and expenses and make the finding a part of the final order entered in the proceeding. Proceeds collected from a finding made under this subsection shall be paid to the commission. (f) Any person aggrieved by a final decision of the commission to revoke or suspend a registration or license or to impose any monetary penalty may obtain judicial review before a district court in Travis County. The judicial review must be instituted by serving on the commission and filing a petition not later than the 20th day after the effective date of the final decision and must identify the order appealed from and the grounds or reason why the petitioner contends the decision of the commission should be reversed or modified. The review must be conducted by the court sitting without jury, and must not be a trial de novo but is confined to the record on review. The reviewing court may only affirm the decision, remand the case for further proceedings, or reverse the decision if the substantial rights of the petitioner have been violated. (g) If any court of competent jurisdiction concludes on judicial review limited to the administrative record before the commission and subject to the substantial evidence standard that the deprivation or penalty was unwarranted or otherwise unlawful, the sole remedy available is invalidation of the penalty or reinstatement of the license or registration and the continued distribution, manufacture, or operation of video lottery terminals. The commission, this state, or the members, officers, employees, and authorized agents of either are not under any circumstances subject to monetary damages, attorney's fees, or court costs resulting from the penalty or license or registration revocation. (h) A license or registration holder agrees that the privilege of holding a license or registration under this subchapter is conditioned on the holder's agreement to this section in its entirety and, thereby, waives any right to challenge or otherwise appeal the enforceability of this section. Sec. 466.515. LIMITED WAIVER OF SOVEREIGN IMMUNITY; NO LIABILITY OF STATE FOR ENFORCEMENT. (a) This state does not waive its sovereign immunity by negotiating gaming agreements with Indian tribes or other persons for the operation of video lottery terminals or other lottery games under this chapter. An actor or agent on behalf of this state does not have any authority to waive the state's sovereign immunity absent an express legislative grant of the authority. The only waiver of sovereign immunity relative to video lottery terminal operations is that expressly provided for in this section. (b) With regard to video lottery terminal operations on Indian lands, this state consents to the jurisdiction of the District Court of the United States situs in the county where the Indian lands are located solely for the purpose of resolving disputes arising from a gaming agreement authorized under this subchapter for declaratory or injunctive relief or contract damages of $100,000 or more. Any disputes relating to damages or other awards valued at less than $100,000 shall be arbitrated under the rules of the American Arbitration Association, provided, however, that application of the rules may not be construed as a waiver of sovereign immunity. (c) All financial obligations of the commission are payable solely out of the income, revenues, and receipts of the commission and are subject to statutory restrictions and appropriations. (d) This state and the commission are not liable if performance by the commission is compromised or terminated by acts or omissions of the legislature or the state or federal judiciary. (e) This state and the commission are not liable related to any enforcement of this chapter. Sec. 466.516. ABSOLUTE PRIVILEGE OF REQUIRED COMMUNICATIONS AND DOCUMENTS. Any communication or document of a video lottery central system provider, video lottery terminal provider, video lottery retailer, or video lottery manager, an applicant, or a license or registration holder that is made or transmitted to the commission or any of its employees to comply with any law or the rules of the commission, comply with a subpoena issued by the commission, or assist the commission or its designee in the performance of their respective duties is absolutely privileged, does not impose liability for defamation, and is not a ground for recovery in any civil action. If the document or communication contains any information which is privileged under state law, that privilege will not be waived or lost because the document or communication is disclosed to the commission or any of the commission's employees. The commission shall maintain all privileged information, documents, and communications in a secure place as determined in the commission's sole discretion accessible only to members of the commission and authorized commission employees. Sec. 466.517. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS OF COMMISSION. The legislature finds and declares that the commission has the right to establish ownership of intellectual property rights for all lottery products, including video lottery terminals and related video lottery equipment. Sec. 466.518. MODEL GAMING AGREEMENT. (a) The governor shall execute, on behalf of this state, a gaming agreement containing the terms set forth in Subsection (b), as a ministerial act, without preconditions, not later than the 30th day after the date the governor receives a request from the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo Indian tribe, the Alabama-Coushatta Indian tribe, or the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas, accompanied by or in the form of a duly enacted resolution of the tribe's governing body, to enter into the gaming agreement. (b) A gaming agreement executed under Subsection (a) must be in the form and contain the provisions as follows:
GAMING AGREEMENT GOVERNING
VIDEO LOTTERY TERMINAL OPERATIONS
Between the [Name of Tribe]
and the STATE OF TEXAS
This agreement is made and entered into by and between the [Name of Tribe], a federally recognized Indian Tribe ("Tribe"), and the State of Texas ("State"), with respect to the operation of video lottery terminals (as defined by Section 466.002, Texas Government Code) on the Tribe's Indian lands (as defined by Section 47(f), Article III, Texas Constitution). SECTION 1.0. TITLE. Sec. 1.1. This document shall be referred to as "The [Name of Tribe] and State of Texas gaming agreement." SECTION 2.0. PURPOSES AND OBJECTIVES. Sec. 2.1. The terms of this agreement are designed and intended to: (a) evidence the good will and cooperation of the Tribe and State in fostering a mutually respectful government-to-government relationship that will serve the mutual interests of the parties; (b) develop and implement a means of regulating limited Class III gaming on the Tribe's Indian lands to ensure fair and honest operation in accordance with the applicable federal and state law, and, through that regulated limited Class III gaming, enable the Tribe to develop self-sufficiency, promote tribal economic development, and generate jobs and revenues to support the Tribe's government and governmental services and programs; and (c) ensure fair operation of video lottery games and minimize the possibilities of corruption and infiltration by criminal influences; promote ethical practices in conjunction with that gaming, through the licensing and control of persons employed in, or providing goods and services to, the Tribe's video lottery operation and protecting against the presence or participation of persons whose criminal backgrounds, reputations, character, or associations make the persons unsuitable for participation in gaming, thereby maintaining a high level of integrity in government gaming. SECTION 3.0. DEFINITIONS. As used in this agreement, all terms have the meaning assigned by Section 466.002, Texas Government Code, unless otherwise specified: Sec. 3.1. "Class III gaming" means the forms of Class III gaming defined in 25 U.S.C. Section 2703(8) and by regulations of the National Indian Gaming Commission. Sec. 3.2. "Financial source" means any person providing financing, directly or indirectly, to the Tribe's video lottery terminal establishment or operation of video lottery terminals authorized under this gaming agreement. Sec. 3.3. "Gaming activities" means the limited Class III gaming activities authorized under this gaming agreement. Sec. 3.4. "Gaming employee" means any person who: (a) operates, maintains, repairs, or assists in any gaming activities, or is in any way responsible for supervising the gaming activities or persons who conduct, operate, account for, or supervise the gaming activities; (b) is in a category under applicable federal or tribal gaming law requiring licensing; (c) is an employee of the Tribal Compliance Agency with access to confidential information; or (d) is a person whose employment duties require or authorize access to areas of the video lottery terminal establishment that are not open to the public. Sec. 3.5. "Gaming ordinance" means a tribal ordinance or resolution authorizing the conduct of Class III Gaming Activities on the Tribe's Indian lands and approved under IGRA or other applicable federal law. Sec. 3.6. "IGRA" means the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988 (18 U.S.C. Sec. 1166 et seq. and 25 U.S.C. Sec. 2701 et seq.), any amendments to the act and all regulations promulgated under the act. Sec. 3.7. "Key employee" means any person whom the Tribe employs as chief operating or executive officer, chief financial officer, chief of security, or manager of the video lottery terminal establishment or operations of the video lottery terminals, or any other person who may directly influence management of the video lottery terminal establishment or operation of video lottery terminals. Sec. 3.8. "NIGC" means the National Indian Gaming Commission. Sec. 3.9. "Patron" means any person who is on the premises of a video lottery terminal establishment, for the purpose of playing a video lottery game authorized by this gaming agreement. Sec. 3.10. "Principal" means, with respect to any entity, the entity's sole proprietor or any partner, trustee, beneficiary, or shareholder holding 10 percent or more of the entity's beneficial or controlling ownership, either directly or indirectly, or more than 10 percent of the voting stock of a publicly traded corporation, or any officer, director, principal management employee, or key employee of the entity. Sec. 3.11. "Restoration Act" means the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo and Alabama Coushatta Indian Tribes of Texas Restoration Act (25 U.S.C. Section 731 et seq. and 25 U.S.C. Section 1300g et seq.). Sec. 3.12. "State" means the State of Texas or an authorized official or agency of the state. Sec. 3.13. "Transfer agreement" means a written agreement authorizing the transfer of video lottery terminal operating rights between the Tribe and another Indian tribe. Sec. 3.14. "Transfer notice" means a written notice that the Tribe must provide to the Texas Lottery Commission of the Tribe's intent to acquire or transfer video lottery terminal operating rights pursuant to a transfer agreement. Sec. 3.15. "Tribal chairperson" means the person duly elected or selected under the Tribe's organic documents, customs, or traditions to serve as the primary spokesperson for the Tribe. Sec. 3.16. "Tribal Compliance Agency" ("TCA") means the Tribal governmental agency that has the authority to carry out the Tribe's regulatory and oversight responsibilities under this gaming agreement. Unless and until otherwise designated by the Tribe, the TCA shall be the [Name of Tribe] Gaming Commission. A gaming employee may not be a member or employee of the TCA. The Tribe has the ultimate responsibility for ensuring that the TCA fulfills its responsibilities under this gaming agreement. The members of the TCA are subject to background investigations and shall be licensed to the extent required by any applicable Tribal or federal law and in accordance with this gaming agreement. The Tribe shall ensure that all TCA officers and agents are qualified for the position and receive ongoing training to obtain and maintain skills sufficient to carry out their responsibilities in accordance with industry standards. Sec. 3.17. "Tribal law enforcement agency" means a police or security force established and maintained by the Tribe under the Tribe's powers of self-government to carry out law enforcement duties at or in connection with a video lottery terminal establishment. Sec. 3.18. "Tribal gaming license" means any license issued by the TCA as required by and in compliance with this agreement. Sec. 3.19. "Tribe" means [Name of Tribe], a federally-recognized Indian tribe. Sec. 3.20. "Video lottery terminal establishment" means any premises at which the operation of video lottery terminals is authorized under this gaming agreement. SECTION 4.0. RECITALS. Sec. 4.1. This agreement governs all operations of video lottery terminals as defined by Section 466.002, Texas Government Code, on the Tribe's Indian lands. Sec. 4.2. A principal goal of Federal Indian policy is to promote tribal economic development and tribal self-sufficiency. The State and the Tribe find the goal to be consistent with applicable federal law, state public policy, and the public health, safety, and welfare to regulate video lottery terminals on Indian lands in accordance with this gaming agreement. Sec. 4.3. The Tribe is a federally recognized Indian tribe possessing sovereign powers and rights of self-government. The Tribe's governing body has authorized the officials of the Tribe to enter into contracts and agreements of every description, including this gaming agreement, with the State. Sec. 4.4. The Tribe exercises governmental authority within the [name of Reservation] (the "Reservation"), which for purposes of this gaming agreement means those lands within the current boundaries of the Reservation and any other Indian lands over which the Tribe exercises governmental authority. Sec. 4.5. The State of Texas is a state of the United States of America possessing the sovereign powers and rights of a state. The State has a legitimate sovereign interest in regulating the growth of Class III gaming activities in Texas. Mindful of that interest, the State of Texas, pursuant to Chapter 466, Texas Government Code, authorized certain gaming agreements with Indian tribal governments in the State of Texas to permit the operation of video lottery terminals on Indian lands. It is the general policy of the State to prohibit commercial gambling. The limited exceptions to this prohibition are enumerated under Texas law. Any gaming not expressly authorized is prohibited. Sec. 4.6. The parties recognize this agreement provides the Tribe substantial benefits that create a unique opportunity for the Tribe to operate video lottery terminals in an economic environment of limited competition from gaming on non-Indian lands in Texas that is restricted to licensed racetracks in existence in 2004 with minimum requirements for live racing. The parties are mindful that this unique environment is of economic value to the Tribe. In consideration for the substantial rights enjoyed by the Tribe, and in further consideration for the State's willingness to enter into this gaming agreement and allow the Tribe the opportunity to operate video lottery terminals connected to the State's video lottery system, the Tribe has agreed to provide to the State, on a sovereign-to-sovereign basis, a portion of revenue generated by video lottery terminals on Indian lands and to collect and remit to the comptroller State sales and use taxes and State taxes on motor fuels, alcoholic beverages, cigarettes and tobacco products, and hotel occupancy. The requirement to collect and remit these State taxes does not apply to taxes on the sale, use, or consumption of an item by a member of the Tribe. Sec. 4.7. The Tribe desires to offer the play of video lottery terminals, as a means of generating revenue for the support of tribal governmental programs, such as health care, housing, sewer and water projects, police, corrections, fire, judicial services, highway and bridge construction, general assistance for tribal elders, day care for the children, economic development, educational opportunities, and other typical and valuable governmental services and programs for tribal members. Sec. 4.8. The State recognizes that the positive effects of this gaming agreement may extend beyond the Tribe's lands to the Tribe's neighbors and surrounding communities and will generally benefit all of Texas. These positive effects and benefits may include not only those described in Section 4.7, but also may include increased tourism and related economic development activities that, through the Tribe's revenue sharing with the State, will generate additional funds for the public education system and other state governmental programs. Sec. 4.9. The Tribe and the State jointly wish to protect their citizens from any criminal involvement in the gaming operations regulated under this gaming agreement. Sec. 4.10. Nothing in this agreement shall supplant the role or duties of the Texas Department of Public Safety under state law. The Texas Racing Commission and the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts do not have any role in regulation or oversight of gaming activities conducted by a Tribe. Sec. 4.11. The terms of this gaming agreement strictly define and limit the relationship of the parties. Nothing in this gaming agreement shall be construed to create or imply a joint venture, partnership, principal/agent, or any other relationship between the parties. SECTION 5.0. CLASS III GAMING AUTHORIZED AND PERMITTED. Sec. 5.1. The Tribe is hereby authorized and permitted to engage only in the Class III gaming activities expressly referred to in Section 6.0 and may not engage in Class III gaming that is not expressly authorized in that section. Nothing in this agreement shall be construed to allow Internet gaming. SECTION 6.0. AUTHORIZATION OF VIDEO LOTTERY TERMINALS. Sec. 6.1. Authorized and Permitted Class III Gaming. The Tribe is hereby authorized and permitted to operate the following Class III gaming under the terms and conditions set forth in this agreement. Sec. 6.2. The Tribe and State agree that the Tribe is authorized to operate video lottery terminals only in accordance with this gaming agreement. However, nothing in this agreement limits any right of the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas to operate any game that is Class II under IGRA and Class II games are not subject to the exclusivity payments required under this gaming agreement. Sec. 6.2.1. Operation of Video Lottery Terminals. Video lottery terminals must be operated in connection with the video lottery system and at all times be connected through communication technology or other video lottery equipment controlled by the State to the State controlled and operated video lottery central system. The Tribe may enter into a management gaming agreement, for a third party video lottery manager or the Tribe may act as the video lottery manager. (a) Third Party Video Lottery Manager. If the Tribe enters into a management gaming agreement for a third party video lottery manager, then the manager must be licensed by the Texas Lottery Commission under Section 466.5034, Texas Government Code, and all video lottery operations shall be subject to and in strict compliance with Subchapter K, Chapter 466, Texas Government Code. Any video lottery manager conducting business on Indian lands shall indemnify and hold harmless the State and the commission and all officers and employees of both from any and all claims which may be asserted against a license holder, the commission, the State, and the members, officers, employees, and authorized agents of either, arising from the license holder's participation in the video lottery system authorized under the gaming agreement. (b) Tribe as Video Lottery Manager. If the Tribe elects to manage video lottery terminal operations, then Sections 7.0 through 14.0 of this agreement govern the procurement and operation of the video lottery terminals on the Indian lands of the Tribe. Sec. 6.3. In order to remain eligible to operate video lottery terminals under this gaming agreement, the Tribe must strictly comply with all requirements of the gaming agreement, timely file all reports required by this gaming agreement, and, as applicable, by Chapter 466, Texas Government Code, timely remit all payments to the State required under this gaming agreement or applicable state law, including the taxes collected as provided by Section 4.6. Sec. 6.4. Regardless of ownership of video lottery terminals, the state shall own all video lottery games. SECTION 7.0. PROCUREMENT OF VIDEO LOTTERY TERMINALS. Sec. 7.1. All video lottery terminals shall be procured only from a video lottery terminal provider registered with the Texas Lottery Commission under Section 466.5033, Texas Government Code. The Tribe may not enter into, or continue to make payments pursuant to, any contract or agreement for the provision of video lottery equipment with any person who is not registered by the commission as a video lottery terminal provider under Section 466.5033, Texas Government Code. Any agreement between the Tribe and a video lottery terminal provider shall be deemed to include a provision for the agreement's termination without further liability on the part of the Tribe, except for the bona fide repayment of all outstanding sums, exclusive of interest, owed as of, or payment for services or materials received up to, the date of termination, on revocation or non-renewal of the video lottery terminal provider's registration. Sec. 7.2. The Texas Lottery Commission shall provide the Tribe a list of registered video lottery terminal providers, commission approved video lottery games, and commission approved video lottery terminals. A video lottery terminal that has not been authorized by the commission may not be operated by the Tribe. Sec. 7.3. Any order placed for video lottery terminals must be filed with the commission simultaneously with its submission to a commission-approved video lottery terminal provider. Sec. 7.4. The Tribe or the video lottery manager shall provide all necessary capital investments and required improvements at a video lottery terminal establishment. SECTION 8.0. LICENSING. Sec. 8.1. Gaming Ordinance and Regulations. All video lottery operations conducted under this agreement, at a minimum, shall comply with all terms and conditions of this gaming agreement, a Gaming Ordinance adopted by the Tribe and approved in accordance with this agreement and any applicable federal law, and with all rules, regulations, procedures, specifications, and standards adopted by the TCA. All licensing related to the operation of video lottery terminals shall be conditioned on an agreement by the license holder to indemnify and hold harmless the State and the Texas Lottery Commission and all officers and employees of both from any and all claims which may be asserted against a license holder, the commission, the State and the members, officers, employees, and authorized agents of either arising from the license or registration holder's participation in the video lottery system authorized under this agreement. Sec. 8.2. Tribal Ownership and Regulation of Gaming Operation. Except as otherwise provided by this agreement, the Tribe shall have the sole proprietary interest in the video lottery terminal establishment and video lottery terminals. This provision may not be construed to prevent the Tribe from granting security interests or other financial accommodations to secured parties, lenders or others, or to prevent the Tribe from entering into leases or financing agreements or a gaming management agreement with a video lottery manager. Sec. 8.3. Government-to-Government Cooperation. The parties intend that the licensing process provided for in this gaming agreement shall involve joint cooperation between the TCA and the Texas Lottery Commission, as more particularly described herein. Sec. 8.4. Video Lottery Terminal Establishment. (a) Any video lottery terminal establishment authorized by this agreement shall be operated by a licensed video lottery manager or the Tribe and licensed by the TCA in conformity with the requirements of this gaming agreement, the Tribal Gaming Ordinance, and any applicable federal law. The license shall be reviewed and renewed, if appropriate, every two years thereafter. Verification that this requirement has been satisfied shall be provided by the Tribe to the Texas Lottery Commission every two years. The TCA's certification to that effect shall be posted in a conspicuous and public place in the video lottery terminal establishment at all times. (b) In order to protect the health and safety of all video lottery terminal establishment patrons, guests, and employees, all video lottery terminal establishments of the Tribe constructed after the effective date of this gaming agreement, and all expansions or modifications to a site facility for a video lottery terminal establishment in existence as of the effective date of this gaming agreement, shall meet or exceed the building and safety codes of the Tribe. As a condition for engaging in that construction, expansion, modification, or renovation, the Tribe shall amend the Tribe's existing building and safety codes if necessary, or enact such codes if there are none, so that they meet the standards of the building and safety codes of any county in which the video lottery terminal establishment is located, including all uniform fire, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, and related codes then in effect. Nothing herein shall be deemed to confer jurisdiction on any county or the State with respect to any reference to such building and safety codes. Any construction, expansion, or modification must also comply with the federal Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. Sec. 12101 et seq.), as amended. (c) Any video lottery terminal establishment shall be issued a certificate of occupancy by the TCA prior to occupancy if it was not used for any lawful gaming prior to the effective date of this gaming agreement, or, if it was so used, within one year after the effective date. The issuance of this certificate shall be reviewed for continuing compliance every two years thereafter. Inspections by qualified building and safety experts shall be conducted under the direction of the TCA as the basis for issuing any certificate hereunder. The TCA shall determine and certify that, as to new construction or new use for gaming activities, the video lottery terminal establishment meets the Tribe's building and safety code, or, as to facilities or portions of facilities that were used for the Tribe's gaming before this gaming agreement, that the video lottery terminal establishment or portions of the establishment do not endanger the health or safety of occupants or the integrity of the video lottery system. The Tribe may not offer video lottery gaming in a video lottery terminal establishment that is constructed or maintained in a manner that endangers the health or safety of occupants or the integrity of the video lottery system. (d) The State shall designate an agent or agents to be given reasonable notice of each inspection by the TCA's experts, which State agents may accompany any such inspection. The Tribe agrees to correct any video lottery terminal establishment condition noted in an inspection that does not meet the standards set forth in Subsections (b) and (c). The TCA and the State's designated agent or agents shall exchange any reports of an inspection within 10 days after completion of the report, and the reports shall also be separately and simultaneously forwarded by both agencies to the Tribal chairperson. On certification by the TCA's experts that a video lottery terminal establishment meets applicable standards, the TCA shall forward the experts' certification to the State within 10 days of issuance. If the State's agent objects to that certification, the Tribe shall make a good faith effort to address the State's concerns, but if the State does not withdraw its objection, the matter will be resolved in accordance with the dispute resolution provisions of this gaming agreement. Sec. 8.5. Suitability Standard Regarding Tribal Gaming Licenses. In reviewing an application for a tribal gaming license, and in addition to any standards set forth in the Tribal gaming ordinance, the TCA shall consider whether issuance of the license is inimical to public health, safety, or welfare, and whether issuance of the license will undermine public trust that the Tribe's operation of video lottery terminals, or tribal government gaming generally, is free from criminal and dishonest elements and would be conducted honestly. A license may not be issued unless, based on all information and documents submitted, the TCA is satisfied that the applicant, in addition to any other criteria in any applicable federal law is all of the following: (a) a person of good character, honesty, and integrity; (b) a person whose prior activities, criminal record (if any), reputation, habits, and associations do not pose a threat to the security and integrity of the lottery or to the public interest of the State or to the effective operation and control of the lottery, or create or enhance the dangers of unsuitable, unfair, or illegal practices, methods, or activities in the conduct of the lottery, or in the carrying on of the business and financial arrangements incidental thereto; and (c) a person who in all other respects is qualified to be licensed as provided in this gaming agreement, any applicable federal law, the Tribal Gaming Ordinance, and any other criteria adopted by the TCA or the Tribe. An applicant may not be found to be unsuitable solely on the ground that the applicant was an employee of a tribal gaming operation in Texas that was conducted before the effective date of this gaming agreement. Employment in an unauthorized gaming operation in Texas subsequent to the effective date of this agreement, however, shall impose a presumption of unsuitability. Sec. 8.6. Gaming Employees. (a) Every gaming employee shall obtain, and thereafter maintain current, a valid tribal gaming license, which shall be subject to biennial renewal, provided that in accordance with Section 8.8.2, a person may be employed on a temporary or conditional basis pending completion of the licensing process. (b) Without the concurrence of the Texas Lottery Commission, the Tribe may not employ or continue to employ any person whose application to the commission for a registration, license, determination of suitability, or other regulatory approval, or for a renewal of a registration, license, determination of suitability, or other regulatory approval, has been denied or has expired without renewal. Sec. 8.7. Financial Sources. Any person providing financing, directly or indirectly, to the Tribe's video lottery terminal establishment or operation of video lottery terminals shall be licensed by the TCA before receipt of that financing, provided that any person who is providing financing at the time of the execution of this gaming agreement shall be licensed by the TCA within ninety (90) days of such execution. The licenses shall be reviewed at least every two years for continuing compliance. In connection with the review, the TCA shall require the Financial Source to update all information provided in the previous application. Any agreement between the Tribe and a Financial Source is deemed to include a provision for its termination without further liability on the part of the Tribe, except for the bona fide repayment of all outstanding sums, exclusive of interest, owed as of the date of termination, on revocation or non-renewal of the Financial Source's license by the TCA based on a determination of unsuitability by the Texas Lottery Commission. The Tribe may not enter into, or continue to make payments pursuant to any contract or agreement for the provision of financing with any person whose application to the commission for a determination of suitability has been denied or has expired without renewal. A video lottery terminal provider who provides financing exclusively in connection with the sale or lease of video lottery equipment obtained from that video lottery terminal provider may be registered solely in accordance with the commission's registration procedures for video lottery terminal providers. The TCA may, in its discretion, exclude from the licensing requirements of this section, financing provided by: (1) a federally regulated or state-regulated bank, savings and loan, or other federally regulated or state-regulated lending institution; (2) any agency of the federal, state, or local government; or (3) any investor who, alone or in conjunction with others, holds less than 10 percent of any outstanding indebtedness evidenced by bonds issued by the Tribe. Sec. 8.8. Processing License Applications. Each applicant for a tribal gaming license shall submit the completed application on forms prescribed by the TCA and approved by the Texas Lottery Commission, along with the required information and an application fee, to the TCA in accordance with the rules and regulations of that agency. The parties agree that for purposes of this agreement, the standards set forth under federal law with regard to information required for Tribal gaming operation applications shall govern. Accordingly, at a minimum, the TCA shall require submission and consideration of all information required under federal law, including 25 C.F.R. Section 556.4, for licensing primary management officials and key employees. For applicants who are business entities, the licensing provisions apply to the entity and: (a) each officer and director; (b) each principal management employee, including any chief executive officer, chief financial officer, chief operating officer, and general manager; (c) each owner or partner, if an unincorporated business; (d) each shareholder who owns more than 10 percent of the shares of the corporation, if a corporation; and (e) each person or entity, other than a financial institution the TCA has determined does not require a license under the preceding section, that, alone or in combination with others, has provided financing in connection with any video lottery equipment or video lottery terminal establishment under this gaming agreement, if that person or entity provided more than five percent of: (1) the start-up capital; (2) the operating capital over a 12-month period; or (3) a combination thereof. For purposes of this section, if any commonality of the characteristics identified in Subsections (a) to (e), inclusive, exist between any two or more entities, the entities may be deemed to be a single entity. Nothing herein precludes the Tribe or TCA from requiring more stringent licensing requirements. Sec. 8.8.1. Background Investigations of Applicants. (a) The TCA shall conduct or cause to be conducted all necessary background investigations reasonably required to determine that the applicant is qualified for a tribal gaming license under the standards set forth herein, and to fulfill all requirements for licensing under any applicable federal law, the Tribal Gaming Ordinance, and this gaming agreement. The TCA may not issue any license other than a temporary license until a determination is made that the qualifications have been met. (b) Instead of completing its own background investigation, and to the extent that doing so does not conflict with or violate any applicable federal law or the Tribal Gaming Ordinance, the TCA may contract with the Texas Lottery Commission or an independent contractor approved by the commission for the conduct of background investigations. An applicant for a tribal gaming license must provide releases to the commission to make available to the TCA background information regarding the applicant. The commission shall cooperate in furnishing to the TCA that information, unless doing so would violate any agreement the commission has with a source of the information other than the applicant, or would impair or impede a criminal investigation, or unless the TCA cannot provide sufficient safeguards to assure the commission that the information will remain confidential. Sec. 8.8.2. Temporary Licensing of Employees. Notwithstanding any contrary provision in this gaming agreement, the TCA may issue a temporary license and may impose specific conditions on the license pending completion of the applicant's background investigation as the TCA in its sole discretion shall determine, if: (a) the applicant for a tribal gaming license has completed a license application in a manner satisfactory to the TCA; and (b) that agency has conducted a preliminary background investigation, and the investigation or other information held by that agency does not indicate: (1) that the applicant has a criminal history that could pose a threat to the security and integrity of the lottery or to the public interest of the State or the effective operation and control of the lottery, or create or enhance the dangers of unsuitable, unfair, or illegal practices, methods, or activities in the conduct of the lottery, or in the carrying on of the business and financial arrangements incidental thereto; (2) other information in his or her background that would either disqualify the applicant from obtaining a license or cause a reasonable person to investigate further before issuing a license; or (3) that the applicant is otherwise unsuitable for licensing. (c) The TCA may require special fees to issue or maintain a temporary license. (d) A temporary license shall remain in effect until suspended or revoked, or until a final determination is made on the application. At any time after issuance of a temporary license, the TCA may suspend or revoke the temporary license in accordance with Sections 8.9.1 or 8.9.5, and the Texas Lottery Commission may request suspension or revocation in accordance with Section 8.9. (e) For purposes of this agreement, the parties agree that the standards set forth in 25 C.F.R. Part 558 govern licensing and investigations required under the provisions of this agreement. Nothing herein shall be construed to relieve the Tribe of any obligation under this agreement to comply with the standards set forth in 25 C.F.R. Part 558. Sec. 8.9. Tribal Gaming License Issuance. (a) On completion of the necessary background investigation, the TCA may issue a tribal gaming license on a conditional or unconditional basis. Nothing herein shall create a property or other right of an applicant in an opportunity to be licensed, or in a license itself, both of which shall be considered to be privileges granted to the applicant in the sole discretion of the TCA subject to oversight by the Texas Lottery Commission as provided herein. Any license, registration, suitability, qualification issued, or other regulatory approval granted pursuant to or in compliance with this gaming agreement is a revocable privilege, and a holder does not acquire any vested right therein or thereunder. (b) State and Tribal courts shall have no jurisdiction to review decisions to deny, limit, or condition such licenses, registration, suitability, qualification, or requests for approval unless the judicial review is sought on the ground that such a denial, limitation, or condition is proven by clear and convincing evidence to be based on a suspect classification such as race, color, religion, gender, or national origin, protected under the Equal Protection Clause of the United States Constitution. Sec. 8.9.1. Denial, Suspension, or Revocation of Licenses. (a) Any application for a tribal gaming license may be denied, and any license issued may be revoked, if the TCA determines the application is incomplete or deficient, or if the applicant is determined to be unsuitable or otherwise unqualified for the gaming license. Pending consideration of revocation, the TCA may suspend a license in accordance with Section 8.9.5. All rights to notice and hearing shall be governed by tribal law, as to which the applicant will be notified in writing along with notice of an intent to suspend or revoke the license. (b) On receipt of notice that the Texas Lottery Commission has determined a person would be unsuitable for licensure in a video lottery terminal establishment or related to video lottery terminal operations subject to the jurisdiction of the commission, the TCA shall promptly revoke any license issued to the person. Sec. 8.9.2. Renewal of Licenses; Extensions; Further Investigation. The term of a tribal gaming license may not exceed five years, and application for renewal of a license must be made before the license's expiration. Applicants for renewal of a license shall provide updated material as requested, on the appropriate renewal forms, but, at the discretion of the TCA, may not be required to resubmit historical data previously submitted or that is otherwise available to the TCA. At the discretion of the TCA, an additional background investigation may be required at any time if the TCA determines the need for further information concerning the applicant's continuing suitability or eligibility for a license. Before renewing a license, the TCA shall deliver to the Texas Lottery Commission copies of all information and documents received in connection with the application for renewal. Sec. 8.9.3. Identification Cards. The TCA shall require all persons who are required to be licensed to wear, in plain view at all times while in the video lottery terminal establishment, identification badges issued by the TCA. Identification badges must include a photograph and an identification number that is adequate to enable TCA agents to readily identify the person and determine the validity and date of expiration of the license. Sec. 8.9.4. Fees for Tribal Gaming License. The fees for all tribal gaming licenses shall be set by the TCA. Sec. 8.9.5. Suspension of Tribal Gaming License. The TCA may summarily suspend a tribal gaming license if the TCA determines that the continued licensing of the person or entity could constitute a threat to the public health or safety or may violate the TCA's licensing or other standards or any provision of applicable federal or state law or of this agreement. Any right to notice or hearing in regard thereto shall be governed by Tribal law provided the law is not inconsistent with any provision of this agreement. Sec. 8.9.6. State Certification Process. (a) On receipt of a completed tribal gaming license application and a determination by the TCA that it intends to issue the earlier of a temporary or permanent license, the TCA shall transmit to the Texas Lottery Commission a notice of intent to license the applicant, together with all of the following: (i) a copy of all tribal license application materials and information received by the TCA from the applicant; (ii) an original set of fingerprint cards; (iii) a current photograph; and (iv) except to the extent waived by the commission, the releases of information, waivers, and other completed and executed forms obtained by the TCA. (b) Except for an applicant for licensing as a non-key gaming employee, the TCA shall require the applicant to file an application with the Texas Lottery Commission, before issuance of a temporary or permanent tribal gaming license, for a determination of suitability for licensure under Subchapter K, Chapter 466, Texas Government Code. Investigation and disposition of that application is governed entirely by state law, and the commission shall determine whether the applicant would be found suitable for licensure in a video lottery terminal establishment or in relation to video lottery terminal operations at a racetrack subject to the commission's jurisdiction. Additional information may be required by the commission to assist in a background investigation, provided that the commission requirement is no greater than that which may be required of applicants for a State video lottery retailer license in connection with video lottery operations at a racetrack. A determination of suitability is valid for the term of the tribal license held by the applicant, and the TCA shall require a license holder to apply for renewal of a determination of suitability at the time the license holder applies for renewal of a tribal gaming license. The commission and the TCA, together with tribal gaming agencies under other gaming agreements, shall cooperate in developing standard licensing forms for tribal gaming license applicants, on a statewide basis, that reduce or eliminate duplicative or excessive paperwork, and the forms and procedures must take into account the Tribe's requirements under any applicable federal law and the expense thereof. (c) Background Investigations of Applicants. On receipt of completed license application information from the TCA, the Texas Lottery Commission may conduct a background investigation pursuant to state law to determine whether the applicant would be suitable to be licensed for association with a video lottery terminal establishment or operation subject to the jurisdiction of the commission. If further investigation is required to supplement the investigation conducted by the TCA, the applicant will be required to pay an application fee charged by the commission in an amount that reimburses the commission for actual costs incurred, provided that in requesting any deposit, the commission shall take into consideration reports of the background investigation already conducted by the TCA and the NIGC, if any. Failure to pay the application fee or deposit may be grounds for denial of the application by the commission. The commission and TCA shall cooperate in sharing as much background information as possible, both to maximize investigative efficiency and thoroughness, and to minimize investigative costs. On completion of the necessary background investigation or other verification of suitability, the commission shall issue a notice to the TCA certifying that the State has determined that the applicant would be suitable, or that the applicant would be unsuitable, for licensure in a video lottery terminal establishment subject to the jurisdiction of the commission and, if unsuitable, stating the reasons therefore. (d) The Tribe, on a monthly basis, shall provide the Texas Lottery Commission with the name, badge identification number, and job descriptions of all non-key gaming employees. (e) The Tribe shall, at all times, have a list of key employees on file with the Texas Lottery Commission and shall advise the commission of any change to the list within 10 days. (f) Before denying an application for a determination of suitability, the Texas Lottery Commission shall notify the TCA and afford the Tribe an opportunity to be heard. The courts of the State and the Tribe shall have no jurisdiction to review decisions to deny, limit, or condition such licenses, registration, suitability, qualification, or requests for approval unless such a denial, limitation, or condition is proven by clear and convincing evidence to be based on a suspect classification such as race, color, religion, sex, or national origin, protected under the Equal Protection Clause of the United States Constitution. Under these circumstances, any requirement for tribal court exhaustion is hereby waived by the Tribe. Sec. 8.9.7. State Assessment for Costs of Oversight. (a) The State shall make annually an assessment sufficient to compensate the State for actual costs of oversight of the operation of video lottery terminals pursuant to this gaming agreement. (b) On or before August 1, annually, beginning with the first such date following the implementation of video lottery operations under this gaming agreement, the State shall render to the TCA a statement of the total cost of oversight and any law enforcement for the preceding fiscal year ending July 31 together with proposed assessments for the forthcoming fiscal year based on the preceding fiscal year cost. In the first year of the effective date of this gaming agreement, however, the assessment must be prospective and based upon a pro rata allocation of costs if this gaming agreement becomes operative in the course of a fiscal year and must be established following consultation with the TCA. On September 1 annually, the State, after receiving any objections to the proposed assessments and making such changes or adjustments as may be indicated, shall provide a written notice that assesses the Tribe for the costs of the oversight and any necessary law enforcement. Annually, the Tribe shall pay one-third of the assessment within 20 days of the receipt of the written notice and shall pay the remaining two-thirds of the assessment in two equal payments on January 1 and April 1. Such payments must be deposited with the Texas Lottery Commission in a video lottery account established solely for funds related to video lottery terminals operated by the Tribe. (c) In the event that the total assessment paid by the Tribe during any fiscal year of the State exceeds the actual costs of the oversight and any necessary law enforcement during that fiscal year, the State shall adjust the assessment for the succeeding fiscal year in the amount necessary to offset such excess assessment. If the Tribe is aggrieved because of any failure by the State to make such an adjustment, any claim for such an adjustment must be presented in the appeal of the assessment as provided in Section 8.9.8. Sec. 8.9.8. Procedure for Appeal of Assessments or Payments Made to the State. If the Tribe is aggrieved because of any assessment levied or payment made to the State as required by this gaming agreement, the Tribe may, not later than one month from the time provided for the payment, appeal an assessment or payment to the Texas Lottery Commission. If the Tribe is aggrieved by the commission's decision, it may invoke the dispute resolution provisions of this agreement provided that the Tribe must prove by clear and convincing evidence that any collection or assessment of payment to the State was inappropriate. Sec. 8.9.9. Collection and Distribution of Revenue. (a) The Tribe shall establish separate electronic funds transfer accounts for the purposes of depositing money from video lottery terminal operations, making payments to the Texas Lottery Commission, and receiving payments from the commission. (b) The State's share of net terminal income of the Tribe's video lottery terminal operations shall be transferred to the Texas Lottery Commission through the electronic transfer of funds daily by the commission. The commission shall establish the procedures for depositing money from video lottery terminal operations into electronic funds transfer accounts, as well as procedures regarding the handling of money from video lottery terminal operations. The State's share of net terminal income from video lottery terminal operations shall be held in trust for the State. (c) Unless directed otherwise by the Texas Lottery Commission, the Tribe shall maintain in its account the State's share of the net terminal income from the operation of video lottery terminals, to be electronically transferred by the commission. Upon the Tribe's failure to maintain this balance, the commission may disable all of the Tribe's video lottery terminals until full payment of all amounts due is made. Interest shall accrue on any unpaid balance at a rate consistent with the amount charged under Section 111.060, Texas Tax Code. The interest shall begin to accrue on the date payment is due to the commission. In the commission's sole discretion, rather than disable the Tribe's video lottery terminals, the commission may elect to impose contract penalties in an amount to be determined by the commission not to exceed $250,000 for each violation. If the Tribe fails to remedy the violation, including payment of any amounts due to the State, within 10 days, the commission may disable the Tribe's video lottery terminals or use any other means for collection agreed to by the Tribe instead of disabling the Tribe's video lottery terminals. (d) The Tribe is solely responsible for resolving any income discrepancies between actual money collected and the net terminal income reported by the video lottery central system. Unless an accounting discrepancy is resolved in favor of the Tribe, the Texas Lottery Commission may not make any credit adjustments. Any accounting discrepancies which cannot be resolved shall be resolved in favor of the commission. (e) Tribes shall remit payment as directed by the Texas Lottery Commission if the electronic transfer of funds is not operational or the commission notifies the Tribe that remittance by this method is required. The Tribe shall report the State's share of net terminal income, and remit the amount as generated from its terminals during the reporting period. (f) The Tribe agrees to furnish to the Texas Lottery Commission all information and bank authorizations required to facilitate the timely transfer of money to the commission. The Tribe agrees to provide the commission 30 days' advance notice of any proposed account changes in order to assure the uninterrupted electronic transfer of funds. However, in no event shall the commission be responsible for any interruption or delays in transferring of funds. Rather, the Tribe shall be responsible for any interruption or delay in transferring of funds. SECTION 9.0. RULES AND REGULATIONS; MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR OPERATIONS. Sec. 9.1. Regulations. The Tribe shall promulgate any rules and regulations necessary to implement this gaming agreement, which at a minimum shall expressly include or incorporate by reference all requirements of this gaming agreement. Nothing in this gaming agreement shall be construed to affect the Tribe's right to amend its rules and regulations, provided that any such amendment shall be in conformity with this gaming agreement. The Texas Lottery Commission may propose additional rules and regulations related to implementation of this gaming agreement to the TCA at any time, and the TCA shall give good faith consideration to such suggestions and shall notify the commission of its response or action with respect thereto. Sec. 9.2. Compliance; Internal Control Standards. All video lottery operations shall comply with, and all video lottery games approved under the procedures set forth in this gaming agreement shall be operated in accordance with the requirements set forth in this gaming agreement and applicable state law. The parties agree that for purposes of this agreement, the standards set forth in 25 C.F.R. Part 542 shall govern minimum requirements for tribal internal control standards. Accordingly, the Tribe agrees that all tribal video lottery operations shall comply with tribal internal control standards that provide a level of control that equals or exceeds those set forth in 25 C.F.R. Part 542. Sec. 9.3. Records. In addition to other records required to be maintained herein, the Tribe shall maintain the following records related to implementation of this gaming agreement in permanent form and as written or entered, whether manually or by computer, and which shall be made available for inspection by the Texas Lottery Commission for no less than four years from the date generated: (a) a log recording all surveillance activities of the video lottery terminal establishment, including, but not limited to, surveillance records kept in the normal course of operations and in accordance with industry standards; provided, notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, surveillance records may, at the discretion of the Tribe, be destroyed if no incident has been reported within one (1) year following the date such records were made. Records, as used in this gaming agreement, shall include video tapes and any other storage media; (b) payout from the conduct of all video lottery games; (c) maintenance logs for all video lottery gaming equipment used by the video lottery terminal establishment; (d) security logs as kept in the normal course of conducting and maintaining security at the video lottery terminal establishment, which at a minimum shall conform to industry practices for such reports. The security logs shall document any unusual or nonstandard activities, occurrences, or events at or related to the video lottery terminal establishment or in connection with the video lottery terminal operations. Each incident, without regard to materiality, shall be assigned a sequential number for each such report. At a minimum, the security logs shall consist of the following information, which shall be recorded in a reasonable fashion noting: (1) the assigned number of the incident; (2) the date of the incident; (3) the time of the incident; (4) the location of the incident; (5) the nature of the incident; (6) the identity, including identification information, of any persons involved in the incident and any known witnesses to the incident; and (7) the Tribal compliance officer making the report and any other persons contributing to its preparation; (e) books and records on video lottery terminals, as described more particularly in Section 9.4 below, shall be maintained in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and the standards set forth in Section 9.4 below; and (f) all documents generated in accordance with this gaming agreement. Sec. 9.4. ACCOUNTING. Sec. 9.4.1. Accounting Records Required. The Tribe agrees with regard to any video lottery terminal operations, to keep accurate, complete, legible, and permanent records of all transactions pertaining to revenue for six years. If the Tribe keeps permanent records in a computerized or microfiche fashion, it shall provide the Texas Lottery Commission, upon request, with a detailed index to the microfiche or computer records that is indexed by date. Sec. 9.4.2. Accounting Systems. The Tribe agrees with regard to all video lottery terminal operations, to keep general accounting records on a double entry system of accounting, maintaining detailed, supporting, and subsidiary records, including: (a) detailed records that identify the revenues, expenses, assets, liabilities, and equity of the video lottery terminal establishment and operations; (b) records required by the Tribe's Minimum Internal Control System; (c) journal entries prepared by the Tribe and its independent accountant; and (d) any other records that the TCA may require. Sec. 9.4.3. Net Terminal Income and Expenses. The Tribe agrees with regard to all video lottery terminal operations, to create and maintain records sufficiently accurate to reflect the net terminal income and expenses of the video lottery terminal establishment and operation of video lottery terminals. Sec. 9.4.4. Financial Statements. (a) The Tribe agrees to prepare financial statements covering all financial activities of the video lottery terminal establishment and operation of video lottery terminals for a business year. The statements required by this subsection must be presented on a comparative basis. (b) If the Tribe changes its business year, it must prepare and submit audited or reviewed financial statements to the Texas Lottery Commission covering the "stub" period from the end of the previous business year to the beginning of the new business year not later than 120 days after the end of the stub period or incorporate the financial results of the stub period in the statements for the new business year. Sec. 9.5. Audits. The parties agree that for purposes of this agreement, the standards set forth in 25 C.F.R. Section 571.12 shall govern audits required under this agreement. The TCA shall ensure that an annual independent financial audit of the Tribe's conduct of video lottery games subject to this gaming agreement and of the video lottery terminal establishment is secured. The audit shall, at a minimum, examine revenues and expenses in connection with the operation of video lottery terminals in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards and shall include, but not be limited to, those matters necessary to verify the determination of net terminal income and the basis of the payments made to the State pursuant to this gaming agreement. (a) The auditor selected by the TCA shall be a firm of known and demonstrable experience, expertise, and stature in conducting audits of this kind and scope and shall be approved by the Texas Lottery Commission. (b) The audit shall be concluded within five months following the close of each calendar year, provided that extensions may be requested by the Tribe and may not be refused by the State where the circumstances justifying the extension request are beyond the Tribe's control. An extension, however, may not extend the conclusion of an audit required by this gaming agreement to more than 12 months following the close of the relevant calendar year. (c) The audit of the operation of video lottery terminals may be conducted as part of or in conjunction with the audit of the video lottery terminal establishment, but if so conducted shall be separately stated for the reporting purposes required herein. (d) The audit shall conform to generally accepted auditing standards. As part of the audit report, the auditor shall certify to the TCA that, in the course of the audit, the auditor discovered no matters within the scope of the audit which were determined or believed to be in violation of any provision of this gaming agreement. If the auditor discovers matters determined or believed to be in violation of any provision of this gaming agreement, the auditor shall immediately notify the Texas Lottery Commission of the alleged violation and the basis for the auditor's conclusion. (e) The Tribe shall assume all costs in connection with the audit. (f) The audit report for the conduct of video lottery games shall be submitted to the Texas Lottery Commission within thirty (30) days of completion. The auditor's work papers concerning video lottery games shall be made available to the commission upon request. (g) Representatives of the Texas Lottery Commission may, upon request, meet with the auditors to discuss the work papers, the audit, or any matters in connection therewith; provided such discussions are limited to video lottery information and pursue legitimate state video lottery interests. Sec. 9.6. Security. (a) All video lottery terminals shall be continuously monitored through the use of a closed circuit television system that records all activity for a continuous 24-hour period. All video tapes or other media used to store video images shall be retained for a period of at least 30 days. (b) Access to video lottery terminal locations shall be restricted to persons legally entitled by age under State law to play video lottery games. (c) The Tribe must submit for approval by the Texas Lottery Commission a security plan and a floor plan of the area or areas where video lottery terminals are to be operated showing video lottery terminal locations and security camera mount locations. This commission approved security plan shall be subject to review by the commission which may require revision of the plan on a biennial basis. (d) Security personnel shall be present during all hours of operation at each video lottery terminal establishment. The Tribe shall employ at least the number of security personnel the Texas Lottery Commission determines is necessary to provide for safe and approved operation of the video lottery terminal establishment and the safety and well-being of the players. (e) The communication technology used in connection with video lottery operations must meet accepted industry standards for security sufficient to minimize the possibility of any third-party intercepting any data transmitted to or from the video lottery terminals. Sec. 9.7. Exclusion of Persons. The Tribe's rules and regulations shall require at a minimum the exclusion of persons based on their prior conduct at the video lottery terminal establishment or who, because of their criminal history or association with criminal offenders, pose a threat to the integrity of the conduct of video lottery games or may be playing video lottery games compulsively. (a) The TCA shall establish a list of the persons to be excluded from any video lottery terminal establishment under this provision. (b) The Tribe shall employ its best efforts to exclude persons on such list from entry into its video lottery terminal establishment. (c) Patrons who believe they may be playing video lottery games on a compulsive basis may request that their names be placed on the list. All gaming employees shall receive training on identifying players who have a problem with compulsive playing and shall be instructed to ask them to leave. Signs and other materials shall be readily available to direct such compulsive players to agencies where they may receive counseling. Notwithstanding any other provision of this agreement, the TCA's list of self-excluded persons shall not be open to public inspection. (d) The Tribe or video lottery manager also may exclude any other person for any reason not related to that person's race, sex, national origin, physical disability, or religion. Sec. 9.8. Sale of Alcoholic Beverages. The sale and service of alcoholic beverages in a video lottery terminal establishment shall be in compliance with state, federal, and tribal law in regard to the licensing and sale of such beverages. Sec. 9.9. Age Restrictions. (a) No person under the age of 18 shall be permitted to play video lottery games, be admitted into any area in a video lottery terminal establishment where video lottery games are played, nor be permitted to operate, or obtain a prize from or in connection with the operation of, any video lottery game, directly or indirectly. If during the term of this agreement, the State amends its law to permit play of video lottery terminals by persons under the age of 18, the Tribe may amend tribal law to reduce the lawful gaming age under this agreement to correspond to the lawful gaming age under state law. (b) No person under the age of 18 shall be employed as a gaming employee unless such employment would be otherwise permitted under state law. (c) No person under the age of 21 shall be employed in the service of alcoholic beverages at any video lottery terminal establishment, unless such employment would be otherwise permitted under state law. Sec. 9.10. Destruction of Documents. Books, records, and other materials documenting the operation of video lottery terminals shall be destroyed only in accordance with rules and regulations adopted by the TCA, which at a minimum shall provide as follows: (a) material that might be utilized in connection with a prize claim, including but not limited to incident reports, surveillance records, statements, and the like, shall be maintained at least 180 days beyond the time which a claim can be made under this gaming agreement or, if a prize claim is made, beyond the final disposition of such claim; and (b) except as otherwise provided in Section 9.3(a), all books and records with respect to the operation of video lottery terminals or the operation of the video lottery terminal establishment, including, but not limited to, all interim and final financial and audit reports and materials related thereto which have been generated in the ordinary course of business, shall be maintained for the minimum period of four years. Sec. 9.11. Location. The Tribe may establish facilities for and operate video lottery terminals only on its Indian lands as defined by Section 47(f), Article III, Texas Constitution. The Tribe shall notify the Texas Lottery Commission of any potential new video lottery terminal establishment following the effective date of this gaming agreement. Nothing herein shall be construed as expanding or otherwise altering the term "Indian lands," as that term is defined in the Texas Constitution. Sec. 9.12. Placement and Movement of Video Lottery Terminals. Placement and movement of video lottery terminals within a video lottery terminal establishment must be consistent with a video lottery terminal floor plan approved by the Texas Lottery Commission. Sec. 9.13. Monitoring of Operation of Video Lottery Terminals. All terminals connected to the video lottery system will be continuously monitored by the Texas Lottery Commission and disabled, when, in the commission's discretion, a problem arises threatening the public health, safety or welfare, or financial loss to the State, or jeopardizing the integrity of the video lottery. Such circumstances justifying termination include, but are not limited to, malfunction of a video lottery terminal or any game displayed on a video lottery terminal, misuse of any video lottery terminal or video lottery game, or a material breach by the Tribe in the operating requirements or a material provision of this agreement. Sec. 9.14. Wager Limitations. The maximum wager authorized for any single play of a video lottery terminal shall be established by the TCA consistent with any such maximum established by rule of the Texas Lottery Commission. During the term of this agreement, the wager limitation set forth in this section shall be automatically increased without the need to amend this agreement on each two-year anniversary of the effective date to an amount equal to the wager limitation multiplied by the CPI adjustment rate, rounded up to the next whole dollar. Sec. 9.15. Prizes. Payment of prizes shall be the sole and exclusive responsibility of the Tribe or video lottery manager. No prizes shall be paid by the Texas Lottery Commission or the State except as otherwise authorized. Video lottery tickets shall be redeemable only for a period of 180 days following the date of issuance. If a claim is not made for prize money on or before the 180th day after the date on which the video lottery ticket was issued, the prize money shall become the property of the State. The Tribe agrees to enact rules consistent with this provision and authorized by the commission, governing use and redemption of prizes and credits recorded on electronic player account records, such as players' club cards and smart cards. Nothing herein shall limit the ability of the Tribe or video lottery manager to provide promotional prizes, including but not limited to, wide area progressive networks, in addition to prize payouts regulated by the commission. Sec. 9.16. Patron Disputes. The State and the Texas Lottery Commission shall not be liable for any video lottery terminal malfunction or error by the Tribe or video lottery manager that causes credit to be wrongfully awarded or denied to players. Any disputes arising between players and the Tribe or video lottery manager, (i) if the fair market value of the prize is less than $1,000, shall be resolved in accordance with commission approved written policies of the TCA with no relief available from the commission or the State; (ii) if the fair market value of the prize is $1,000 or more, shall be resolved by the commission in its sole discretion pursuant to rules established by the commission. No court of this state or the Tribe shall have jurisdiction to review the decision of the commission resolving a dispute between players and the Tribe or a video lottery manager. Sec. 9.17. Transfer of Gaming Device Operating Rights. During the term of this agreement, the Tribe may enter into a transfer agreement with one or more federally recognized Indian tribes with Indian lands in this state to acquire or transfer video lottery terminal operating rights on Indian lands. The Tribe's acquisition or transfer of video lottery terminal operating rights is subject to the following conditions: (a) Gaming Agreement. Each Indian tribe that is a party to a transfer agreement must have a valid and effective gaming agreement with the State that contains a provision substantially similar to the provision herein permitting transfers of the Indian tribe's video lottery terminal operating rights. (b) Forbearance Agreement. If the Tribe enters into a transfer agreement to transfer some or all of its video lottery terminal operating rights, the Tribe also shall execute a forbearance agreement with the State. The forbearance agreement shall include a waiver of all rights of the Tribe to put into play or operate the number of video lottery terminal operating rights transferred during the term of the transfer agreement. (c) The Tribe must be operating video lottery terminals at least equal to its current video lottery terminal allocation before, or simultaneously with, the Tribe acquiring the right to operate additional video lottery terminals by a transfer agreement. The Tribe is not required to utilize any video lottery terminal operating rights it acquires, or to utilize them before acquiring additional video lottery terminal operating rights. (d) The Tribe shall not at any time simultaneously acquire video lottery terminal operating rights and transfer video lottery terminal operating rights pursuant to transfer agreements. Sec. 9.17.1. Transfer Agreements. The transfer of video lottery terminal operating rights may be made pursuant to a transfer agreement between two Indian tribes. A transfer agreement must include the following provisions: (a) the number of video lottery terminal operating rights transferred and acquired; (b) the duration of the transfer agreement; (c) the consideration to be paid by the Indian tribe acquiring the video lottery terminal operating rights to the Indian tribe transferring the video lottery terminal operating rights and the method of payment; (d) the dispute resolution and enforcement procedures, including a provision for the State to receive notice of any such proceedings; and (e) a procedure to provide quarterly notice to the Texas Lottery Commission of payments made and received, and to provide timely notice to the commission of disputes, revocation, amendment, and termination. Sec. 9.17.2. Transfer Notice. At least thirty days before the execution of a transfer agreement the Tribe shall send to the Texas Lottery Commission a transfer notice of intent to acquire or transfer video lottery terminal operating rights. The transfer notice shall include a copy of the proposed transfer agreement, the proposed forbearance agreement, and a copy of the tribal resolution authorizing the acquisition or transfer. Sec. 9.17.3. Texas Lottery Commission Denial of Transfer. The Texas Lottery Commission may deny a transfer as set forth in a transfer notice only if: (a) the proposed transfer violates the conditions set forth in this agreement; or (b) the proposed transfer agreement does not contain the minimum requirements listed in this agreement. The commission's denial of a proposed transfer must be in writing, must include the specific reason(s) for the denial (including copies of all documentation relied upon by the commission to the extent allowed by state law), and must be received by the Tribe within 60 days of the commission's receipt of the transfer notice. If the Tribe disputes the commission's denial of a proposed transfer, the Tribe shall have the right to have such dispute resolved pursuant to the dispute resolution process provided in Section 15.0 herein. Sec. 9.17.4. Effective Date of Transfer. If the Tribe does not receive a notice of denial of the transfer from the Texas Lottery Commission within the time period specified above, the proposed transfer agreement shall become effective on the later of the 61st day following the commission's receipt of the transfer notice or the date set forth in the transfer agreement. Sec. 9.17.5. Use of Brokers. The Tribe shall not contract with any person to act as a broker in connection with a transfer agreement. No person shall be paid a percentage fee or a commission as a result of a transfer agreement, nor shall any person receive a share of any financial interest in the transfer agreement or the proceeds generated by the transfer agreement. Any person acting as a broker in connection with a transfer agreement is providing gaming services. Sec. 9.17.6. Revenue from Transfer Agreements. The Tribe agrees that all proceeds received by the Tribe as a transferor under a transfer agreement shall be used for the governmental purposes permitted under this agreement for revenue generated by video lottery terminal operations. The Tribe shall include the proceeds in an annual audit and shall make available to the State that portion of the audit addressing proceeds from transfer agreements. Sec. 9.17.7. Agreed Upon Procedures Report. The Tribe agrees to provide to the Texas Lottery Commission, either separately or with the other party to the transfer agreement, an agreed upon procedures report from an independent certified public accountant. The procedures to be examined and reported upon are whether payments made under the transfer agreement were made in the proper amount, made at the proper time, and deposited in an account of the Indian tribe transferring the video lottery terminal operating rights. Sec. 9.17.8. State Payment. Proceeds received by the Tribe as a transferor under a transfer agreement from the transfer of video lottery terminal operating rights are not subject to any payment to the State under this agreement or otherwise. Sec. 9.17.9. Access to Records Regarding Transfer Agreements. The Texas Lottery Commission shall have access to all records of the Tribe directly relating to transfer agreements and forbearance agreements. Sec. 9.18. Supervision of Patrons. The Tribe agrees to ensure that gaming employees, at all times, monitor video lottery terminals to prevent access to or play by persons who are under the age of 18 years or who are visibly intoxicated. Sec. 9.19. Hours of Operation. The Tribe may establish by ordinance or regulation the permissible hours and days of operation of video lottery terminal operations; provided, however, that with respect to the sale of liquor, the Tribe agrees to adopt and comply with standards at least as restrictive as any applicable state liquor laws at all video lottery terminal establishments. Sec. 9.20. Automatic Teller Machines. The Tribe agrees to adopt and comply with a Tribal ordinance establishing responsible restrictions on the provision of financial services at video lottery terminal establishments. At a minimum, the ordinance shall prohibit: (a) locating an automatic teller machine ("ATM") adjacent to, or in proximity to, any video lottery terminal, however, an ATM may be installed in a video lottery terminal establishment, provided that the Tribe adopts and complies with an ordinance establishing standards no less restrictive than any state and federal law governing installation of ATMs within a gaming facility; (b) locating in a video lottery terminal establishment an ATM that accepts electronic benefit transfer cards issued pursuant to a state or federal program that is intended to provide for needy families or individuals; and (c) accepting checks or other non-cash items issued pursuant to a state or federal program that is intended to provide for needy families or individuals. Sec. 9.21. Advertising. Advertisements or promotions must be consistent with Texas Lottery Commission determined criteria. Sec. 9.22. Remedies and Penalties for Unlawful Gaming. Operation or possession of any gaming devices not expressly authorized under this gaming agreement (excluding any Class II gaming authorized under applicable federal law) shall be considered a material breach of the gaming agreement and justify termination of the agreement. Under those circumstances, the State may bring an action in state court and shall be entitled to an injunction prohibiting the continued operation of any unlawful gaming activity upon a showing by a preponderance of evidence that the breach has occurred. In any such proceeding, it is the finding of the legislature that irreparable injury and inadequate remedy at law shall be presumed once the State has demonstrated the violation has occurred. If the State does not seek an injunction for such a material breach of the gaming agreement, the Tribe agrees to pay a contract penalty of $10,000 per day for every day the violation or breach continues. If the breach or violation is not cured within 30 days, the State shall bring an action to enjoin the unlawful conduct and may disable all video lottery terminals operated by the Tribe or operated by a video lottery manager on the Indian lands of the Tribe. SECTION 10.0. ENFORCEMENT OF GAMING AGREEMENT PROVISIONS. Sec. 10.1. The Tribe and TCA shall be responsible for regulating activities pursuant to this gaming agreement. As part of its responsibilities, the Tribe shall: (a) take reasonable measures to assure the physical safety of video lottery terminal establishment patrons and personnel, prevent illegal activity at the video lottery terminal establishment, and protect any rights of patrons under the Indian Civil Rights Act (25 U.S.C. Sections 1302-1303); (b) promptly notify appropriate law enforcement authorities of persons who may be involved in illegal acts in accordance with applicable tribal, federal, and state law; (c) assure that the construction and maintenance of the video lottery terminal establishment meets or exceeds federal and Tribal standards for comparable buildings and minimum standards under this gaming agreement; and (d) prepare adequate emergency access and preparedness plans to ensure the health and safety of all video lottery terminal establishment patrons. Upon the finalization of emergency access and preparedness plans, the TCA or the Tribe shall forward copies of such plans to the Texas Lottery Commission. Sec. 10.2. Members and employees of the TCA shall be licensed in accordance with the provisions of this agreement. All licenses for members and employees of the TCA shall be issued according to the same standards and terms applicable to video lottery terminal establishment employees. The TCA shall employ qualified compliance officers under the authority of the TCA. The compliance officers shall be independent of the video lottery terminal establishment, and shall be supervised by and accountable only to the TCA. A TCA compliance officer shall be available to the video lottery terminal establishment during all hours of operation upon reasonable notice, and shall have immediate access to any and all areas of the video lottery terminal establishment for the purpose of ensuring compliance with the provisions of this gaming agreement. The TCA shall investigate any such suspected or reported violation of this gaming agreement and shall require the correction of such violations. The TCA shall officially enter into its files timely written reports of investigations and any action taken thereon, and shall forward copies of such reports to the Texas Lottery Commission within 15 days of such filing. Any such violations shall be reported immediately to the TCA, and the TCA shall immediately forward the same to the commission. In addition, the TCA shall promptly report to the commission any such violations which it independently discovers. Sec. 10.3. In order to develop and foster a positive and effective relationship in the enforcement of the provisions of this gaming agreement, representatives of the TCA and the Texas Lottery Commission shall meet, not less than on an annual basis, to review past practices and examine methods to improve the regulatory scheme created by this gaming agreement. The meetings shall take place at a location mutually agreed to by the TCA and the commission. The commission, before or during such meetings, shall disclose to the TCA any concerns, suspected activities, or pending matters reasonably believed to possibly constitute violations of this gaming agreement by any person, organization, or entity, if such disclosure will not compromise the interest sought to be protected. Sec. 10.4. Financial Obligations of the Texas Lottery Commission. Any financial obligation of the Texas Lottery Commission or of the State, under this gaming agreement or arising from the operation of the video lottery on the Tribe's Indian lands, shall be payable solely out of the income, revenues, and receipts of the commission resulting from the operation of video lottery terminals on Indian lands of the Tribe. Sec. 10.5. Penalties and Remedies for Noncompliance. (a) Failure to timely remit revenue generated by video lottery terminals to the Texas Lottery Commission or any sales tax or other fee owed to the State or to timely file any report or information required under this gaming agreement or by applicable federal or state law shall constitute a material breach of this gaming agreement. After receiving at least 24 hours written notice from the commission and an additional 48 hours for the opportunity to remedy the breach or otherwise correct the violation, the Tribe shall be subject to contract penalties in the amount of $10,000 per day for the breach. If the breach is not cured within 30 days, the commission shall disable all video lottery terminals operated by the Tribe. (b) If the Tribe is in material breach of this agreement and the Texas Lottery Commission exercises its right to disable all video lottery terminals operated by the Tribe, the commission shall have the right to enter upon the premises of any video lottery terminal establishment on the Tribe's Indian lands and remove any video lottery games or other video lottery equipment that is owned by the State. Sec. 10.6. No Liability of the State Related to Enforcement. The State and the Texas Lottery Commission shall have no liability related to any enforcement of the provisions of this gaming agreement. SECTION 11.0. STATE MONITORING OF GAMING AGREEMENT. Sec. 11.1. The Texas Lottery Commission shall, pursuant to the provisions of this gaming agreement, have the authority to monitor the conduct of video lottery games to ensure that the video lottery games are conducted in compliance with the provisions of this gaming agreement. In order to properly monitor the conduct of video lottery games, in addition to the State's operation and control of the central system and video lottery system, agents of the commission shall have reasonable access to all areas of the video lottery terminal establishment related to the conduct of video lottery games as provided herein: (a) access to the video lottery terminal establishment by the commission shall be during the video lottery terminal establishment's normal operating hours only; provided that to the extent such inspections are limited to areas of the video lottery terminal establishment where the public is normally permitted, commission agents may inspect the video lottery terminal establishment without giving prior notice to the Tribe; (b) any suspected or claimed violations of this gaming agreement or of law shall be directed in writing to the TCA; commission agents shall not interfere with the functioning of the video lottery terminal establishment unless the public safety, welfare, or financial loss to the State, or integrity of the state lottery so requires; and (c) before commission agents enter any nonpublic area of the video lottery terminal establishment, they shall provide proper photographic identification to the TCA. Commission agents shall be accompanied in nonpublic areas of the video lottery terminal establishment by a TCA agent. A one-hour notice by the commission to the TCA may be required to assure that a TCA officer is available to accompany commission agents at all times. Sec. 11.2. Subject to the provisions herein, agents of the Texas Lottery Commission shall have the right to review and copy documents related to the operation of video lottery terminals. The review and copying of such documents shall be during normal business hours or hours otherwise at the Tribe's discretion. However, the commission shall not be permitted to copy those portions of any documents related to the Tribe's operation of video lottery terminals that contain business or marketing strategies or other proprietary and confidential information, including customer lists, business plans, marketing studies, and customer demographics or profiles. No documents of the Tribe related to its conduct of video lottery games or copies thereof shall be released to the public by the State. All such documents shall be deemed confidential documents owned by the Tribe and shall not be subject to public release by the State. Sec. 11.3. At the completion of any commission inspection or investigation, the Texas Lottery Commission shall forward a written report thereof to the TCA. The TCA shall be apprised on a timely basis of all pertinent, nonconfidential information regarding any violation of federal, or state laws, rules or regulations, or this gaming agreement. Nothing herein prevents the commission from contacting Tribal or federal law enforcement authorities concerning suspected criminal wrongdoing involving the TCA. The TCA may interview commission agents and inspectors upon reasonable notice and examine work papers in the same fashion that commission agents and inspectors may examine auditors' notes and make auditor inquiry unless providing such information to the TCA will compromise the interests sought to be protected. Sec. 11.4. Nothing in this gaming agreement shall be deemed to authorize the State to regulate the Tribe's government, including the TCA, or to interfere in any way with the Tribe's selection of its governmental officers, including members of the TCA. The Texas Lottery Commission and the Tribe, however, upon request of the Tribe, shall jointly employ, at the Tribe's expense, an independent firm to perform on behalf of the commission the duties set forth in Sections 11.2 and 11.3. SECTION 12.0. JURISDICTION. Sec. 12.1. Except as expressly provided herein, this gaming agreement shall not alter tribal, federal, or state civil adjudicatory or criminal jurisdiction. Sec. 12.2. The Tribe expressly consents to the State's jurisdiction to enforce the terms of this gaming agreement including, but not limited to, any request for judicial injunctive relief to prohibit unlawful gaming activities. SECTION 13.0. PUBLIC AND WORKPLACE HEALTH, SAFETY, AND LIABILITY. Sec. 13.1. The Tribe will not conduct any gaming activity in a manner that endangers the public health, safety, or welfare. Sec. 13.2. For the purposes of this gaming agreement, the Tribe agrees to: (a) adopt and comply with standards no less stringent than state public health standards for food and beverage handling at any video lottery terminal establishment. The Tribe will allow inspection of food and beverage services at any video lottery terminal establishment by state or county health inspectors, during normal hours of operation, to assess compliance with these standards, unless inspections are routinely made by an agency of the United States government to ensure compliance with equivalent standards of the United States Public Health Service. Nothing herein shall be construed as submission of the Tribe to the jurisdiction of those state or county health inspectors, but any alleged violations of the standards shall be treated as alleged violations of the gaming agreements; (b) adopt and comply with standards no less stringent than federal water quality and safe drinking water standards applicable in Texas at any video lottery terminal establishment. The Tribe will allow for inspection and testing of water quality at any video lottery terminal establishment by state or county health inspectors, as applicable, during normal hours of operation, to assess compliance with these standards, unless inspections and testing are made by an agency of the United States pursuant to, or by the Tribe under express authorization of, federal law, to ensure compliance with federal water quality and safe drinking water standards. Nothing herein shall be construed as submission of the Tribe to the jurisdiction of those state or county health inspectors, but any alleged violations of the standards shall be treated as alleged violations of this gaming agreement; (c) comply with the building and safety standards set forth in Section 8.4 of this agreement; (d) carry no less than five million dollars ($5,000,000) in public liability insurance for patron claims. The Tribe herein provides reasonable assurance that such claims will be promptly and fairly adjudicated, and that legitimate claims will be paid; provided that nothing herein requires the Tribe to agree to liability for punitive damages or attorneys' fees. On or before the effective date of this gaming agreement or not less than 30 days before the commencement of operation of video lottery terminals under this gaming agreement, whichever is later, the Tribe shall adopt and make available to patrons a tort liability ordinance setting forth the terms and conditions, if any, under which the Tribe waives immunity to suit for money damages resulting from intentional or negligent injuries to person or property at the video lottery terminal establishment or in connection with the Tribe's operation of video lottery terminals. The tort liability ordinance shall include procedures for processing any claims for such money damages. Nothing in this section shall require the Tribe to waive its immunity to suit except to the extent of the policy limits set out above. Any insurance policy provided in compliance with the terms of this subsection shall provide that the policy provider shall not raise the Tribe's sovereign immunity as a defense or otherwise to avoid payment of a claim under this subsection; (e) adopt and comply with standards no less stringent than federal workplace and occupational health and safety standards at any video lottery terminal establishment. The Tribe will allow for inspection of video lottery terminal establishment workplaces by state inspectors, during normal hours of operation, to assess compliance with these standards, unless inspections are regularly made by an agency of the United States government to ensure compliance with federal workplace and occupational health and safety standards. Nothing herein shall be construed as submission of the Tribe to the jurisdiction of those state inspectors, but any alleged violations of the standards shall be treated as alleged violations of this gaming agreement; (f) comply with tribal codes and any applicable federal law regarding public health and safety; (g) adopt and comply with standards no less stringent than federal laws and state laws forbidding employers generally from discriminating in the employment of persons to work for the Tribe in relation to its operation of video lottery terminals or in the video lottery terminal establishment on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, or disability. However, nothing herein shall preclude the Tribe from giving a preference in employment to Indians, pursuant to a duly adopted tribal ordinance; (h) adopt and comply with standards that are no less stringent than state laws prohibiting a video lottery manager or any employee thereof from cashing any check drawn against a federal, state, county, or city fund, including but not limited to, social security, unemployment insurance, disability payments, or public assistance payments; (i) adopt and comply with standards that are no less stringent than state laws, governing the extension of credit to, the cashing of checks for, and other financial transactions with patrons calculated to protect players from problem and pathological gambling; and (j) adopt and comply with the provisions of the Bank Secrecy Act (31 U.S.C. Sections 5311-5314), as amended, and all reporting requirements of the Internal Revenue Service, insofar as such provisions and reporting requirements are applicable to gaming facilities. Sec. 13.2.1. The Tribe agrees to adopt and, not later than 30 days after the effective date of this gaming agreement, make available on request the standards described in Subsections (a)-(c) and (e)-(j) of Section 13.2 to which the Tribe is held with regard to operation of video lottery terminals. In the absence of a promulgated tribal standard in respect to a matter identified in those subsections, or the express adoption of an applicable federal statute or regulation instead of a tribal standard in respect to any such matter, an applicable state statute or regulation shall be deemed to have been adopted by the Tribe as the applicable standard. Sec. 13.3. Participation in State Statutory Programs Related to Employment. (a) Instead of permitting the Tribe to participate in the state statutory workers' compensation system for employees of a video lottery terminal establishment or otherwise engaged in the operation of video lottery terminals, the Tribe may create and maintain a system that provides redress for employee work-related injuries through requiring insurance or self-insurance, which system must include a scope of coverage, availability of an independent medical examination, right to notice, hearings before an independent tribunal, a means of enforcement against the employer, and benefits comparable to those mandated for comparable employees under state law. Not later than the effective date of this gaming agreement, or 60 days before the commencement of video lottery terminal operations under this gaming agreement, the Tribe will advise the State of its election to participate in the statutory workers' compensation system or, alternatively, will forward to the State all relevant ordinances that have been adopted and all other documents establishing the system and demonstrating that the system is fully operational and compliant with the comparability standard set forth above. The parties agree that independent contractors doing business with the Tribe must comply with all state workers' compensation laws and obligations. (b) The Tribe agrees that it will participate in the State's program for providing unemployment compensation benefits and unemployment compensation disability benefits with respect to employees of the video lottery terminal establishment, and the Tribe consents to the jurisdiction of the state agencies charged with the enforcement of that code and of the courts of the State of Texas for purposes of enforcement. (c) As a matter of comity, with respect to persons employed at the video lottery terminal establishment in capacities otherwise related to the operation of video lottery terminals, other than members of the Tribe, the Tribe shall withhold all taxes due to the State as provided by Texas law, and shall forward such amounts as provided in said Codes to the State. Sec. 13.4. Emergency Service Accessibility. The Tribe shall make reasonable provisions for adequate emergency fire, medical, and related relief and disaster services for patrons and employees of the video lottery terminal establishment. Sec. 13.5. The Tribe agrees to prohibit the intentional, knowing, or reckless possession of a firearm, illegal knife, club, explosive weapon, machine gun, firearm silencer, knuckles, armor-piercing ammunition, a chemical dispensing device, or a zip gun, as those terms are defined in Section 46.01, Texas Penal Code, at all times in the video lottery terminal establishment. The defenses that apply to the prohibition of possession of such weapons on the premises of a racetrack under Section 46.03, Texas Penal Code, shall also apply to the prohibition of possession of such weapons in video lottery terminal establishments. In addition, Tribal security or Tribal law enforcement personnel, shall be permitted to possess firearms and clubs at a video lottery terminal establishment as authorized by Tribal law. Sec. 13.6. Tribal Law Enforcement Plan. The Tribe agrees to implement a written tribal law enforcement services plan that provides a comprehensive and effective means to address criminal and undesirable activity at the video lottery terminal establishment. This plan shall provide that sufficient tribal law enforcement resources are available 24 hours a day, seven days per week to protect the public health, safety, and welfare at the video lottery terminal establishment. To accommodate investigations and intelligence sharing, the Tribe will provide that a police officer holding current Texas police officer standards and training certification is employed by the Tribe and assigned to handle video lottery terminal related matters when they arise. Intelligence liaisons will be established at the tribal police department or TCA and also at the Texas Lottery Commission. There will be federal, tribal, and state cooperation in task force investigations. The commission's intelligence unit will gather, coordinate, centralize, and disseminate accurate and current intelligence information pertaining to criminal and undesirable activity that may threaten patrons, employees, and assets of a video lottery terminal establishment or the video lottery system. The State and the Tribe will coordinate the use of resources, authority, and personnel of the State and the Tribe for the shared goal of preventing and prosecuting criminal or undesirable activity by players, employees, or businesses in connection with tribal video lottery terminal operations. Sec. 13.7. Annual Statement of Compliance Regarding Use of Revenue. The Tribe agrees to submit to the Texas Lottery Commission an annual statement of compliance regarding the use of its share of revenue generated from video lottery terminal operations and a copy of a current tribal ordinance requiring that revenue generated from video lottery terminal operations be used exclusively for the establishment and improvement of governmental services and programs. SECTION 14.0. EXCLUSIVITY AND FEES. Sec. 14.1. The parties acknowledge and recognize that this gaming agreement provides the Tribe territorial exclusivity through the permitted operation of video lottery terminals without requiring construction or operation of a racetrack for live horse or dog racing. This territorial exclusivity and the additional benefits to the Tribe are of substantial benefit to the Tribe and, consistent with Federal Indian policy, provide special opportunities for tribal economic opportunity through gaming within the external boundaries of Texas. In consideration thereof, as long as the State does not change its laws after the effective date of this gaming agreement in the manner that would increase the number of persons to operate video lottery terminals, or the operation of any additional form of gaming by any non-Indian licensee, or change its laws to permit any electronic or machine gaming other than video lottery terminals within Texas, the Tribe agrees to pay fees described in this section. (a) The Tribe covenants and agrees to pay to the State a fee derived from net terminal income calculated as set forth in Subsection (b) of this section. Such fee shall be deducted from the daily deposit of funds into the State's account from the video lottery terminal operations prior to the State's transfer of funds back to the Tribe for such operations. (b) The fee shall be 25 percent of all net terminal income over $20 million received by a Tribe in a calendar year. Sec. 14.2. Start-Up Assessment. Upon the effective date of this gaming agreement, the Tribe shall deposit with the Texas Lottery Commission the sum of $100,000 ("Start-Up Assessment"). The purpose of the Start-Up Assessment shall be to assist the State in initiating its administrative and oversight responsibilities hereunder, and shall be a one-time payment to the State for such purposes. Sec. 14.3. Nothing in this gaming agreement shall be deemed to authorize the State to impose any tax, fee, charge, or assessment upon the Tribe or the video lottery terminal establishment except as expressly authorized pursuant to this gaming agreement under Sections 4.6, 6.21(b), and 13.3(c). To the extent that the Tribe is required under federal law to report prizes awarded, the Tribe agrees to copy such reports to the Texas Lottery Commission. Nothing in this gaming agreement, however, shall be interpreted to preclude the State from requiring the Tribe to collect and remit to the State state sales tax on goods sold to non-Indians that are not produced on tribal land, developing and marketing a tribal resource or for which the Tribe has not participated in any meaningful way to their design. Any state sales tax on the sale of such goods to non-Indians shall be conclusively presumed to be a direct tax on the retail consumer, pre-collected for the purpose of convenience and facility. Sec. 14.4. In consideration for the covenants and agreements contained herein, the State agrees that it will not, during the term of this gaming agreement, permit the nontribal operation of any video lottery games outside of those permitted at licensed racetracks with live horse or dog racing, otherwise presently prohibited by law within the state outside of the designated locations authorized by Subchapter K, Chapter 466, Texas Government Code. The state recognizes the importance of this provision to the Tribe and agrees, in the event of a breach of this provision by the State, to require any nontribal entity which operates any such devices or machines outside of the designated location to remit to the State no less than fifty percent (50%) of any increase in the entities' revenue following the addition of such machines. The State further agrees to remit at least quarterly to Eligible Tribes, as liquidated damages, a sum equal to fifty percent (50%) of any increase in the entities' revenue following the addition of such excess machines. For purposes of this part "Eligible Tribes" shall mean those tribes which have entered into a gaming agreement with the State under Section 466.520, Texas Government Code, and are operating gaming pursuant to the gaming agreement within forty-five (45) miles of an entity which is operating video lottery terminals in excess of the number authorized, or outside of the location designated by Subchapter K, Chapter 466, Texas Government Code. Such liquidated damages shall be allocated pro rata to Eligible Tribes based on the number of video lottery terminals operated by each Eligible Tribe in the time period when such revenues were generated. Sec. 14.5. The Tribe shall remit to the State a fee of $25,000 for each video lottery terminal delivered to a video lottery establishment of the Tribe. SECTION 15.0. DISPUTE RESOLUTION. Sec. 15.1. Voluntary Resolution; Reference to Other Means of Resolution. In recognition of the government-to-government relationship of the Tribe and the State, the parties shall make their best efforts to resolve disputes that occur under this gaming agreement by good faith negotiations whenever possible. Therefore, without prejudice to the right of either party to seek injunctive relief or specific relief provided in this agreement against the other when circumstances are deemed to require immediate relief, the parties hereby establish a threshold requirement that disputes between the Tribe and the State first be subjected to a process of meeting and conferring in good faith in order to foster a spirit of cooperation and efficiency in the administration and monitoring of performance and compliance by each other with the terms, provisions, and conditions of this gaming agreement, as follows: (a) either party shall give the other, as soon as possible after the event giving rise to the concern, a written notice setting forth, with specificity, the issues to be resolved; (b) the parties shall meet and confer in a good faith attempt to resolve the dispute through negotiation not later than 10 days after receipt of the notice, unless both parties agree in writing to an extension of time; (c) if the dispute is not resolved to the satisfaction of the parties within 30 calendar days after the first meeting, then either party may seek to have the dispute resolved by an arbitrator in accordance with this section; and (d) disagreements that are not otherwise resolved by arbitration or other mutually acceptable means as provided herein may be resolved in the United States District Court where the Tribe's video lottery terminal establishment is located, or is to be located, and the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals (or, if those federal courts lack jurisdiction, in any state court of competent jurisdiction and its related appellate courts). The disputes to be submitted to court action are limited to claims of breach or violation of this gaming agreement or failure to negotiate in good faith as required by the terms of this gaming agreement. The parties agree that, except in the case of imminent threat to the public health, safety, or welfare or the integrity of the lottery, reasonable efforts will be made to explore alternative dispute resolution avenues prior to resorting to judicial process. Sec. 15.2. Arbitration Rules. Arbitration shall be conducted in accordance with the policies and procedures of the Commercial Arbitration Rules of the American Arbitration Association, provided that application of these rules shall not be construed to waive the State's sovereign immunity to an extent greater than otherwise authorized herein. Arbitration shall be held at such location as the parties may agree. Each side shall bear its own costs, attorneys' fees, and one-half the costs and expenses of the American Arbitration Association and the arbitrator, unless the arbitrator rules otherwise. Only one neutral arbitrator may be named, unless the Tribe or the State objects, in which case a panel of three arbitrators (one of whom is selected by each party) will be named. The decision of the arbitrator(s) shall be in writing, shall give reasons for the decision, and shall be binding. Judgment on the award may be entered in any federal or state court having jurisdiction thereof. Sec. 15.3. Limited Waiver of Sovereign Immunity. (a) In the event that a dispute is to be resolved in federal court or a state court of competent jurisdiction as provided in this section, the State and the Tribe expressly consent to be sued therein and waive any immunity therefrom that they may have provided that: (1) the dispute is limited solely to issues arising under this gaming agreement; (2) neither side makes any claim for monetary damages (that is, only injunctive, specific performance, including enforcement of a provision of this gaming agreement requiring payment of money to one or another of the parties, or declaratory relief is sought); and (3) no person or entity other than the Tribe and the State is party to the action, unless failure to join a third party would deprive the court of jurisdiction, provided that nothing herein shall be construed to constitute a waiver of the sovereign immunity of either the Tribe or the State in respect to any such third party. (b) In the event of intervention by any additional party into any such action without the consent of the Tribe and the State, the waivers of either the Tribe or the State provided for herein may be revoked, unless joinder is required to preserve the court's jurisdiction, provided that nothing herein shall be construed to constitute a waiver of the sovereign immunity of either the Tribe or the State in respect to any such third party. (c) The waivers and consents provided for under this section shall extend to civil actions authorized by this gaming agreement, such as actions to compel arbitration, any arbitration proceeding herein, any action to confirm or enforce any judgment or arbitration award as provided herein, and any appellate proceedings emanating from a matter in which an immunity waiver has been granted. Except as stated herein or elsewhere in this gaming agreement, no other waivers or consents to be sued, either express or implied, are granted by either party. (d) The State only waives sovereign immunity to the extent authorized by Section 466.515, Texas Government Code. SECTION 16.0. CONSTRUCTION OF GAMING AGREEMENT; FEDERAL APPROVAL. Sec. 16.1. Each provision, section, and subsection of this gaming agreement shall stand separate and independent of every other provision, section, or subsection. In the event that a federal district court or a state court of competent jurisdiction as provided in this agreement shall find any provision, section, or subsection of this gaming agreement to be invalid, the remaining provisions, sections, and subsections of this gaming agreement shall remain in full force and effect, unless the invalidated provision, section, or subsection is material. It is a material provision of this gaming agreement that Class III gaming be limited to that expressly authorized under this gaming agreement, Subchapter K, Chapter 466, Texas Government Code, and Article III, Section 47(f), Texas Constitution. If any final and nonappealable judicial determination authorizes or requires the State to authorize that any Class III gaming be operated by the Tribe or by any federally recognized Indian tribe in the state, other than video lottery terminals connected to the video lottery system or to a government operated video lottery system structured identical to that expressly authorized under Subchapter K, Chapter 466, Texas Government Code, if so required by federal law, then this gaming agreement shall be null and void for all purposes. Sec. 16.2. Each party hereto agrees to defend the validity of this gaming agreement and the legislation in which it is embodied. Sec. 16.3. The parties shall cooperate in seeking approval of this gaming agreement from an appropriate federal agency if so required by federal law. SECTION 17.0. NOTICES. All notices required under this gaming agreement shall be given by certified mail, return receipt requested, commercial overnight courier service, or personal delivery, to the following persons: Governor Chair, State-Tribal Relations Committee Attorney General [Principal Chief, Governor or Chair] [Name of Tribe] [Address] With copies to: _______________________ SECTION 18.0. DURATION, NEGOTIATION, AND TERMINATION. Sec. 18.1. This gaming agreement shall become effective upon the last date of the satisfaction of the following requirements: (a) due execution on behalf of the Tribe, including obtaining all tribal resolutions and completing other tribal procedures as may be necessary to render the Tribe's execution effective including, but not limited to, a final and nonappealable decision of a tribal court of competent jurisdiction that the Tribe's execution of this gaming agreement is effective and that all parts and provisions of the gaming agreement are enforceable by and against the Tribe as set forth herein; (b) any federal regulatory approval required under federal law and, if so required, publication in the Federal Register or satisfaction of any other requirement of federal law; and (c) payment of the Start-up Assessment provided for in Section 14.2 of this gaming agreement. Sec. 18.2. This gaming agreement shall have a term which will expire 10 years from the effective date; provided that within one hundred eighty (180) days of the expiration of this gaming agreement or any renewal thereof, either the Tribe or the State, acting through its Governor, may request to renegotiate the revenue sharing terms of this gaming agreement. The Tribe's noncompliance with any operational, reporting, or other requirements under this gaming agreement shall justify termination of operation of video lottery terminals on the Tribe's Indian lands. The Tribe shall be entitled to notice and a hearing on the compliance issue as set forth under Chapter 466, Texas Government Code, and accompanying rules of the commission. If the Tribe does not remedy the noncompliance issue within 180 days of the termination or 60 days after a final decision of the commission that the Tribe is out of compliance, then this gaming agreement shall terminate without penalty against the commission or the State. Sec. 18.3. This gaming agreement shall remain in full force and effect until the sooner of expiration of the term, termination as provided herein, or termination by mutual consent of the parties. In addition to the remedies set forth above, either party may bring an action in federal court, after providing a 60-day written notice of an opportunity to cure any alleged breach of this gaming agreement, for a declaration that the other party has materially breached this gaming agreement. Upon issuance of such a declaration, the complaining party may unilaterally terminate this gaming agreement upon service of written notice on the other party. In the event a federal court determines that it lacks jurisdiction over such an action, the action may be brought in the district court for the county in which the Tribe's video lottery terminal establishment is located. The parties expressly waive their immunity to suit for purposes of an action under this subsection, subject to the qualifications stated herein. Nothing in this provision shall be construed to limit other remedies available to and contract penalties enforceable by the Texas Lottery Commission, as expressly provided herein, in the event of the Tribe's material breach. The Tribe and the State recognize and agree that the narrow and enumerated provisions for such immediate remedies and enforcement by the State are necessary to protect the public health, safety, and welfare and the integrity of the video lottery. SECTION 19.0. AMENDMENTS; RENEGOTIATIONS. Sec. 19.1. The terms and conditions of this gaming agreement may be amended at any time by the mutual and written agreement of both parties. Any such amendment, however, shall require ratification and approval by the Texas Legislature. Sec. 19.2. This gaming agreement is subject to renegotiation in the event the Tribe wishes to engage in forms of Class III gaming other than those games authorized herein and requests renegotiation for that purpose, provided that no such renegotiation may be sought for 24 months following the effective date of this gaming agreement. SECTION 20.0. AUTHORITY TO EXECUTE. This gaming agreement, as an enactment of the State Legislature, is deemed approved by the State. Upon valid execution by the Tribe and the Governor of the State, no further action by the State or any State official is necessary for this gaming agreement to take effect upon any necessary approval by any federal agency as required by applicable federal law, including publication in the Federal Register, if required. The undersigned tribal official(s) represents that he or she is duly authorized and has the authority to execute this gaming agreement on behalf of the Tribe for whom he or she is signing. APPROVED: [Name of Tribe] _________________________Date:__________ [CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER] State of Texas _________________________Date:__________ Governor of Texas Sec. 466.5181. NEGOTIATION FOR DIFFERENT GAMING AGREEMENT TERMS. (a) Nothing in this subchapter may be construed to limit the ability of a federally recognized Indian tribe to request that a gaming agreement be negotiated with the state on terms that are different from those set forth in the gaming agreement under Section 466.520, or the ability of the state to engage in negotiations and to reach agreement under any applicable federal law. In offering to enter into a gaming agreement with Indian tribes in Texas under Section 466.520(b), and, except for assessments by this state as provided in that section of the amounts necessary to defray state costs of regulating activities as provided under the gaming agreement, nothing in this chapter may be construed to mean that: (1) the state is imposing any tax, fee, charge, or other assessment on an Indian tribe or on any other person or entity authorized by an Indian tribe as a condition to engaging in a Class III activity; or (2) this state is refusing to enter into gaming agreement negotiations based on the lack of authority of the state or a political subdivision of the state to impose the tax, fee, charge, or other assessment. (b) If any federally recognized tribe with jurisdiction over Indian lands in this state requests that the governor enter into negotiations for a gaming agreement under federal law applicable to the tribe, including the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (18 U.S.C. Sec. 1166 and 25 U.S.C. Sec. 2701 et seq.), on terms different than those prescribed in the gaming agreement in Section 466.520(b), the governor shall enter into those negotiations under the federal law applicable to the tribe and without preconditions and is authorized to reach agreement and execute the agreement on behalf of this state, subject to ratification by the legislature provided the gaming agreement does not expand the scope of gaming expressly authorized under this chapter and entitles the tribe only to operate video lottery terminals in strict compliance with state law, unless otherwise required by applicable federal law, and provided that the gaming agreement includes the following provisions: (1) a provision prescribing that the tribe is authorized and allowed to engage only in the Class III gaming activities expressly referred to in the gaming agreement and may not engage in Class III gaming that is not expressly authorized in the agreement; (2) a provision prescribing that any operation or possession of any gaming devices not expressly authorized under the gaming agreement, excluding any Class II gaming authorized under applicable federal law, shall be considered a material breach of the gaming agreement and justify termination of the agreement and the state may bring an action in federal court or, in the event the federal court declines jurisdiction, in state court and shall be entitled to an injunction prohibiting the continued operation of any unlawful gaming activity on the tribal lands on a showing by a preponderance of evidence that the breach has occurred. The legislature finds that, in any such proceeding, irreparable injury and inadequate remedy at law shall be presumed once the state has demonstrated the violation has occurred. If the state does not seek an injunction for such a material breach of the gaming agreement, the tribe agrees to pay a contract penalty of $10,000 per day for every day the violation or breach continues. If the violation or breach is not cured within 10 days, the state may bring an action to enjoin the unlawful conduct; (3) a provision waiving state and tribal sovereign immunity for purposes of operation of video lottery terminals and enforcement of the gaming agreement, provided that the state may not waive sovereign immunity except to the extent expressly permitted under Section 466.515; (4) a provision establishing minimum internal control standards at least as restrictive as those provided under this subchapter and any standards set forth under applicable federal law; (5) a provision that any video lottery manager doing business on Indian lands shall indemnify and hold harmless the commission, this state, and the members, officers, employees, and authorized agents of the commission and state from any and all claims which may be asserted against a license or registration holder, the commission, the state, or the employees arising from the license or registration holder's participation in the video lottery system authorized under the gaming agreement; (6) a provision that the tribe shall pay all regulatory costs incurred by this state in relation to the operation of video lottery terminals on the Indian lands of the tribe to assure compliance with all federal and state law and all provisions of the agreement; (7) a provision recognizing the substantial benefit of the exclusivity or other substantial benefits afforded to the Tribe under the agreement and providing for the sharing of revenue between the tribe and state as payment for the exclusivity or other substantial benefit so long as the state does not extend the privilege to non-Indians or otherwise expand Class III gaming on non-Indian lands; (8) a provision establishing investigative and licensing standards at least as restrictive as those provided under this subchapter and under any applicable federal law; (9) a provision requiring that video lottery terminals and facilities operating the video lottery terminals authorized under the gaming agreement shall be owned by the tribe; (10) a provision that the video lottery authorized by the gaming agreement shall be licensed by the tribe in conformity with the requirements of the agreement, the Tribal Gaming Ordinance, and any applicable federal law, every five years and the tribe shall review and renew the license, if appropriate, and the tribe shall provide to the commission verification that this requirement has been satisfied; (11) a provision for the licensing of all video lottery employees and any person extending financing, directly or indirectly, to the tribe's video lottery operation before extending that financing, provided that any person who is extending financing at the time of the execution of the agreement must be licensed by the tribe not later than the 90th day after the date of execution, and the provision may allow the tribe, in its discretion, to exclude from the licensing requirements of this section financing provided by: (A) a federally regulated or state-regulated bank, savings and loan, or other federally or state-regulated lending institution; (B) any agency of the federal, state, or local government; or (C) any investor who, alone or in conjunction with others, holds less than 10 percent of any outstanding indebtedness evidenced by bonds issued by the tribe; (12) a provision that the commission, under the provisions of the agreement, may monitor the conduct of video lottery games to ensure that the video lottery games are conducted in compliance with the provisions of the agreement, and to properly monitor the conduct of video lottery games, the Department of Public Safety and agents of the commission shall have reasonable access to all areas of the facility related to the conduct of video lottery games; (13) a provision specifying jurisdiction of tribal, state, and federal courts with regard to matters arising from the agreement or the operation of video lottery terminals, or both, as authorized by the agreement and consistent with Section 466.515; (14) a provision that the tribe agrees to adopt and comply with standards no less stringent than state public health standards for food and beverage handling at any facilities where video lottery terminals are operated; (15) a provision that the tribe agrees to adopt and comply with standards no less stringent than federal water quality and safe drinking water standards applicable in this state at any facilities where video lottery terminals are operated, and that the Tribe will allow for inspection and testing of water quality by state or county health inspectors, as applicable, during normal hours of operation, to assess compliance with these standards, unless inspections and testing are made by an agency of the United States pursuant to or by the Tribe under express authorization of federal law to ensure compliance with federal water quality and safe drinking water standards; (16) a provision that the tribe agrees to carry no less than $5 million in public liability insurance for patron claims and provides reasonable assurance that the claims will be promptly and fairly adjudicated and that legitimate claims will be paid; (17) a provision that the tribe agrees to adopt and comply with standards no less stringent than federal workplace and occupational health and safety standards for any facilities where video lottery terminals are operated, and the tribe will allow for inspection of the workplaces by state inspectors during normal hours of operation to assess compliance with these standards, unless inspections are regularly made by an agency of the United States government to ensure compliance with federal workplace and occupational health and safety standards; (18) a provision that the tribe agrees to adopt and comply with standards no less stringent than federal laws and state laws forbidding employers generally from discriminating in the employment of persons to work for the facility operating video lottery terminals on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, or disability, provided that nothing in the provision precludes the tribe from giving a preference in employment to Indians, pursuant to a duly adopted tribal ordinance; (19) a provision that the tribe agrees to adopt and comply with standards that are no less stringent than state laws prohibiting the use of proceeds of a check issued as a payment under the Aid to Families with Dependent Children program administered under Chapter 31, Human Resources Code, or a food stamp coupon issued under the food stamp program administered under Chapter 33, Human Resources Code, for gaming or other wagering; (20) a provision that the tribe agrees to adopt and comply with standards no less stringent than state laws governing the extension of credit to, the cashing of checks for, and other financial transactions with patrons calculated to protect players from problem and pathological gambling; (21) a provision that the tribe agrees to participate in state statutory programs related to employment in video lottery terminal operations or instead of participation in the state statutory workers' compensation system, the tribe may create and maintain a system that provides redress for employee work-related injuries through requiring insurance or self-insurance and that includes a scope of coverage, availability of an independent medical examination, right to notice, hearings before an independent tribunal, a means of enforcement against the employer, and benefits comparable to those mandated for comparable employees under state law; (22) a provision that the tribe agrees to make reasonable provisions for adequate emergency fire, medical, and related relief and disaster services for patrons and employees of the video lottery terminal operations; (23) a provision that the tribe agrees to prohibit the intentional, knowing, or reckless possession of a firearm, illegal knife, club, explosive weapon, machine gun, firearm silencer, knuckles, armor-piercing ammunition, a chemical dispensing device, or a zip gun, as those terms are defined in Section 46.01, Penal Code, at all times in the video lottery terminal establishment; and the defenses that apply to the possession of weapons on the premises of a racetrack under Section 46.03, Penal Code, also apply to possession of the weapons in a video lottery terminal establishment; and tribal security or tribal law enforcement personnel shall be allowed to possess firearms and clubs at a video lottery terminal establishment as authorized by tribal law; (24) a provision that the tribe agrees that on or before the effective date of the agreement, or not less than 90 days before the commencement of any project constructed to serve as the site of video lottery terminals, the tribe shall adopt an ordinance providing for the preparation, circulation, and consideration by the tribe of environmental impact reports concerning potential off-reservation environmental impacts of the construction to be commenced on or after the effective date of the agreement; (25) a provision that the tribe agrees to establish separate electronic funds transfer accounts for the purposes of depositing money from video lottery terminal operations, making payments to the commission, and receiving payments from the commission, which must prohibit the tribe from making payments to the commission in cash, but as authorized by the commission may allow a tribe to make payments to the commission by cashier's check; (26) a provision that the tribe agrees to adopt and comply with the Bank Secrecy Act (31 U.S.C. Sections 5311-5314), as amended, and all reporting requirements of the Internal Revenue Service, insofar as the provisions and reporting requirements are applicable to gaming facilities; and (27) a provision that the tribe agrees to collect and remit to the comptroller state sales and use taxes and state taxes on motor fuels, alcohol beverages, cigarettes and tobacco products, and hotel occupancy, other than taxes on the sale, use, or consumption of an item by a member of the tribe. Sec. 466.5182. IMPLEMENTATION OF GAMING AGREEMENT. The governor shall execute any documents that may be necessary to implement a gaming agreement authorized under this subchapter. Sec. 466.5183. INCORPORATION INTO STATE LAW. The model gaming agreement set out in Section 466.520(b) is hereby incorporated into state law, and the operation of video lottery terminals authorized under the agreement is expressly declared to be allowed as a matter of state law to any Indian tribe entering into the gaming agreement in accordance with this subchapter. Sec. 466.5184. REGULATORY MONEY RECEIVED UNDER GAMING AGREEMENT. All money received by the commission under a gaming agreement for regulatory costs incurred relative to tribal operations of video lottery terminals shall be deposited to the credit of the state video lottery account to defray expenses of the commission incurred in the oversight, compliance with, and enforcement of video lottery terminal operations conducted pursuant to a gaming agreement. Sec. 466.519. INJUNCTION; CIVIL PENALTY. (a) If the commission, the appropriate governing body for an Indian tribe, or the attorney general has reason to believe that this chapter has been or is about to be violated, the attorney general may petition a court for appropriate injunctive relief to restrain the violation. Filing of the petition does not waive applicable sovereign immunity. (b) Venue for an action by this state seeking injunctive relief is in a district court in Travis County. (c) If the court finds that this chapter has been knowingly violated, the court shall order all proceeds from any illegal gambling to be forfeited to the appropriate governing body as a civil penalty. (d) The remedies provided herein are not exclusive. The commission may suspend or revoke a license, impose an administrative penalty, or seek injunctive or civil penalties or both, depending on the severity of the violation. SECTION 9.34. Section 467.001, Government Code, is amended by amending Subdivision (9) and adding Subdivision (12) to read as follows: (9) "Person that has a significant financial interest in the lottery" means: (A) a person or a board member, officer, trustee, or general partner of a person that manufactures, distributes, sells, or produces lottery equipment, video lottery equipment, video lottery games, video lottery central systems, supplies, services, or advertising; (B) an employee of a video lottery terminal provider, video lottery central system provider, or person that manufactures, distributes, sells, or produces lottery equipment, video lottery games, supplies, services, or advertising and that employee is directly involved in the manufacturing, distribution, selling, or production of lottery equipment, supplies, services, or advertising; (C) a person or a board member, officer, trustee, or general partner of a person that has made a bid to operate the lottery in the preceding two years or that intends to make a bid to operate the lottery or an employee of the person if the employee is directly involved in making the bid; or (D) a sales agent, video lottery retailer, video lottery manager, video lottery terminal provider, or video lottery central system provider. (12) "Video lottery central system," "video lottery equipment," "video lottery game," "video lottery manager," "video lottery retailer," and "video lottery terminal provider" have the meanings assigned by Section 466.002. SECTION 9.35. Section 467.031, Government Code, is amended to read as follows: Sec. 467.031. DIVISIONS. The commission shall establish separate divisions to oversee bingo and the state lottery. The commission may create a division to oversee video lottery and delegate responsibilities in the administration of Chapter 466 to the executive director, the director of the appropriate division and the division's staff; provided, however, that the commission may not delegate the following actions: (1) a final determination in any application or request for licensing or registration under Chapter 466; (2) a final determination in any proceeding involving the suspension or revocation of a registration or license under Chapter 466; (3) a final determination that Chapter 466 has been violated; or (4) a final determination or imposition of an assessment of fines or penalties under a law administered by the commission. SECTION 9.36. Section 467.035(a), Government Code, is amended to read as follows: (a) The commission may not employ or continue to employ a person who owns a financial interest in: (1) a bingo commercial lessor, bingo distributor, or bingo manufacturer; or (2) a lottery sales agency, [or] a lottery operator, a video lottery retailer, a video lottery manager, a video lottery terminal provider, a video lottery central system provider, or a manufacturer of video lottery games. SECTION 9.37. Section 411.108, Government Code, is amended by adding Subsection (d) to read as follows: (d) The Texas Lottery Commission may obtain from the department, subject to an interagency agreement entered into under Section 466.020(d) or 466.206, criminal history record information maintained by the department that relates to any natural person, corporation, association, trust, partnership, limited partnership, joint venture, government, subsidiary, or other entity, regardless of its form, structure, or nature that the commission has the authority to investigate under Chapter 466 as related to the commission's operation and oversight of video lottery. Criminal history record information obtained by the commission under this subsection may be released or disclosed only as provided in Sections 466.022(d) and 466.206. SECTION 9.38. Section 47.09, Penal Code, is amended by adding Subsection (c) to read as follows: (c) Subsection (a)(3) applies to a person manufacturing, distributing, possessing, or operating a gambling device with the authorization of the Texas Lottery Commission under Subchapter K, Chapter 466, Government Code. SECTION 9.39. Chapter 47, Penal Code, is amended by adding Section 47.095 to read as follows: Sec. 47.095. INTERSTATE OR FOREIGN COMMERCE DEFENSE. It is a defense to prosecution under this chapter that a person sells, leases, transports, possesses, stores, or manufactures a gambling device with the authorization of the Texas Lottery Commission under Subchapter K, Chapter 466, Government Code, for transportation in interstate or foreign commerce. SECTION 9.40. Section 47.01(4), Penal Code, is amended to read as follows: (4) "Gambling device" means any electronic, electromechanical, or mechanical contrivance not excluded under Paragraph (B) or (C) that for a consideration affords the player an opportunity to obtain anything of value, the award of which is determined solely or partially by chance, even though accompanied by some skill, whether or not the prize is automatically paid by the contrivance. The term: (A) includes, but is not limited to, gambling device versions of bingo, keno, blackjack, lottery, roulette, video poker, slot machines, or similar electronic, electromechanical, or mechanical games, or facsimiles thereof, that operate by chance or partially so, that as a result of the play or operation of the game award credits or free games, and that record the number of free games or credits so awarded and the cancellation or removal of the free games or credits; [and] (B) does not include any electronic, electromechanical, or mechanical contrivance designed, made, and adapted solely for bona fide amusement purposes if: (i) the contrivance rewards the player exclusively with noncash merchandise prizes, toys, or novelties, or a representation of value redeemable for those items, that have a wholesale value available from a single play of the game or device of not more than 10 times the amount charged to play the game or device once or $5, whichever is less; (ii) any merchandise or a representation of value received by a player may be exchanged only at the same business and business location at which the contrivance operated by the player is located and may not be exchanged for a gift certificate or similar conveyance that is redeemable at another business or business location; and (iii) the contrivance or device does not resemble a slot machine or any other casino game; and (C) does not include equipment, machines, technological aids, or other devices allowed in connection with the playing of bingo under Chapter 2001, Occupations Code, or video lottery terminals authorized under Chapter 466, Government Code. SECTION 9.41. The Legislature finds and declares the following: (1) This state is facing a crisis in providing funding for the public education system. Contingent on the approval of the voters, in order to generate additional revenue to fund public education and other state governmental programs, a limited and narrow exception to the constitutional prohibition on lotteries has been proposed to authorize a state-controlled and state-operated video lottery system in accordance with this Act. (2) In light of the financial emergency faced by the state and the need to fund public education and other state governmental programs, in the event the voters approve this limited state-controlled and state-operated video lottery system, the Texas Lottery Commission must be authorized to commence operation of the video lottery system in accordance with this Act at the earliest possible date, consistent with the intent of the voters and legislative directive. (3) The implementation of the video lottery system will require significant time for application investigations and determinations and for video lottery terminal and video lottery central system providers and manufacturers of video lottery games to develop prototypes for testing for the video lottery central system and video lottery terminals and games. (4) The state's budget crisis constitutes an imminent peril to the public welfare, requiring the adoption of rules and authorization for the Texas Lottery Commission to conduct certain limited pre-implementation activities related to the establishment of the video lottery system to promote and ensure the integrity, security, honesty, and fairness of the operation and administration of the video lottery system. (5) In order to commence operation of the video lottery system at the earliest possible date and to maintain the integrity of state-controlled and state-operated video lottery established by this Act, the Texas Lottery Commission may conduct limited pre-implementation acts before the constitutional amendment proposed by the 78th Legislature, 4th Called Session, 2004, to authorize the state video lottery system is submitted to the voters for approval. SECTION 9.42. (a) As soon as practicable after the constitutional amendment to authorize the state video lottery system proposed by the 78th Legislature, 4th Called Session, 2004, is approved by the voters and becomes effective, the Texas Lottery Commission shall adopt the rules necessary to implement video lottery in accordance with Subchapter K, Chapter 466, Government Code, as added by this Act. (b) Before the proposed constitutional amendment to legalize the state video lottery system is submitted to the voters, the Texas Lottery Commission may expend money from the commission's appropriation for the 2004-2005 biennium for purposes of conducting pre-implementation activities to establish the state video lottery system in accordance with Subchapter K, Chapter 466, Government Code, as added by this Act. Notwithstanding Section 466.355, Government Code, the money authorized to be expended under this section may be withdrawn from the state lottery account and considered a part of the transfer of funds from the state lottery account authorized under Section 466.512, Government Code, as added by this Act, to fund the establishment of the state video lottery system. (c) Before the proposed constitutional amendment to authorize the state video lottery system is submitted to the voters, the Texas Lottery Commission may develop and approve forms for applications for licensing and registration required under Subchapter K, Chapter 466, Government Code, as added by this Act. (d) Before the proposed constitutional amendment to authorize the state video lottery system is submitted to the voters, the Texas Lottery Commission may accept pre-implementation applications for video lottery retailers and video lottery managers under Subchapter K, Chapter 466, Government Code, as added by this Act. On receipt of a complete application, completion of all investigations, and submittal of the nonrefundable investigatory fees the commission requires consistent with Subchapter K, Chapter 466, Government Code, as added by this Act, the commission may make preliminary findings of suitability for an applicant and location of a video lottery terminal establishment. If the commission determines that all the requirements under Subchapter K, Chapter 466, Government Code, have been satisfied, the commission may issue a letter advising the applicant of the status of approval of the application pending approval by the voters of the proposed constitutional amendment to authorize the state video lottery system. If the commission determines that any requirements under Subchapter K, Chapter 466, Government Code, have not been satisfied, the commission may request additional information or conduct further investigations the commission considers necessary and may issue a letter advising the applicant of the status of the application. (e) Before the proposed constitutional amendment to authorize the state video lottery system is submitted to the voters, the Texas Lottery Commission may request and receive information related to applications for licensing and registration under Subchapter K, Chapter 466, Government Code, as added by this Act. An applicant's failure to comply with any requests made by the Texas Lottery Commission under this subsection may be considered grounds for denial of an application. (f) The Texas Lottery Commission may not issue any license, registration, or temporary license related to the state video lottery system under Subchapter K, Chapter 466, Government Code, as added by this Act, unless and until the constitutional amendment authorizing the state video lottery system is approved by the voters and becomes effective. (g) Before the proposed constitutional amendment to authorize the state video lottery system is submitted to the voters, the Texas Lottery Commission may conduct investigations and collect investigative fees related to information requested and received for pre-implementation applications under this section and necessary for the commission's evaluation and determination of an application for any licensing, registration, or commission approval required under Subchapter K, Chapter 466, Government Code, as added by this Act. (h) Before the proposed constitutional amendment to authorize the state video lottery system is submitted to the voters, the Texas Lottery Commission may conduct preregistration of potential video lottery terminal providers. To qualify for preregistration under this subsection, an applicant must satisfy the minimum application requirements under Section 466.5033, Government Code, as added by this Act, except that the application fee required under Section 466.5033(i), Government Code, as added by this Act, is not due until the applicant files an application for registration under Subchapter K, Chapter 466, Government Code, as added by this Act. A preregistration application must be accompanied by a nonrefundable deposit to the Texas Lottery Commission in the amount of $25,000. A preregistration applicant shall submit additional money not later than the 10th day after the date the applicant receives notice from the commission that it has incurred actual costs for the preregistration investigation in excess of the initial deposit required under this subsection. If the commission does not receive the additional money from the applicant on or before the 15th day after the date the applicant receives the commission's notice, the commission shall suspend the application until the money is received by the commission. Any deposit or other nonrefundable money provided under this subsection shall be credited toward an application fee required under Section 466.5033(i), Government Code, as added by this Act. (i) The Texas Lottery Commission may not register any video lottery terminal providers unless and until the constitutional amendment authorizing the state video lottery system is approved by the voters and becomes effective. (j) Notwithstanding Section 466.5033, Government Code, as added by this Act, a video lottery terminal provider that has been preregistered by the Texas Lottery Commission in accordance with this section, a video lottery central system provider, or a manufacturer of video lottery games, under a contract with the commission, may manufacture and test prototypes of or existing video lottery equipment for a video lottery central system, video lottery terminals, and video lottery games for the commission's consideration. (k) Before the proposed constitutional amendment to authorize the state video lottery system is submitted to the voters, the Texas Lottery Commission may negotiate contracts with preregistered video lottery terminal providers. The commission may enter into contracts with preregistered video lottery terminal providers, video lottery central system providers, and manufacturers of video lottery games as required for the creation and testing of a video lottery central system, video lottery terminals, and video lottery games for the commission's consideration. (l) Before the proposed constitutional amendment to authorize the state video lottery system is submitted to the voters, the Texas Lottery Commission may negotiate and enter contracts as necessary to establish the video lottery system. The commission is exempt from the procurement procedures prescribed under Subtitle D, Title 10, Government Code; Section 466.101, Government Code; Chapter 2161, Government Code; and any and all bidding requirements or contract requirements provided by any other law or by rules of the commission for the acquisition or provision of facilities, supplies, equipment, materials, or services related to the implementation of video lottery under this section. (m) Before the proposed constitutional amendment to authorize the state video lottery system is submitted to the voters, the Texas Lottery Commission may employ additional full-time equivalent employees to administer this Act and establish the video lottery system. SECTION 9.43. Sections 9.01 through 9.40 of this article take effect on the date the amendment to Section 47, Article III, Texas Constitution, authorizing a state video lottery system proposed by the 78th Legislature, 4th Called Session, 2004, becomes effective. Sections 9.41 and 9.42 of this article and this section take effect immediately if this Act receives a vote of two-thirds of all the members elected to each house, as provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas Constitution. If this Act does not receive the vote necessary for immediate effect, Sections 9.41 and 9.42 of this article and this section take effect on the 91st day after the last day of the legislative session. Sections 9.41 and 9.42(m) of this article expire on the 91st day after the date the constitutional amendment to Section 47, Article III, Texas Constitution, authorizing a state video lottery system, becomes effective.
ARTICLE 10. EFFECTIVE DATE
SECTION 10.01. (a) Except as otherwise provided by this Act, this Act takes effect January 1, 2005, but only if the constitutional amendment proposed by H.J.R. No. 1, 78th Legislature, 4th Called Session, 2004, is approved by the voters. If that amendment is not approved by the voters, this Act has no effect. (b) This subsection and Section 2B.05 of this Act take effect September 1, 2004, regardless of whether the constitutional amendment proposed by H.J.R. No. 1, 78th Legislature, 4th Called Session, 2004, is approved by the voters.