The House Committee on Ways & Means

84th Legislature

September 26, 2016

10:00 a.m.

E2.012

Pursuant to a notice posted on September 13, 2016, the House Committee on Ways & Means met in a public hearing and was called to order by the chair, Representative Bonnen, Dennis, at 10:02 a.m.

The initial quorum call was answered as follows: Representatives Bonnen, Dennis; Bohac; Button; Darby; Murphy; Parker; Springer; Turner, Chris; and Wray.

A quorum was present.

(Representative Davis now present.)

The Committee heard testimony on the revenue and budget outlook.

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list under “Revenue & Budget Overview.”)

The Committee heard testimony on the following interim charge:

Review aspects of the property tax system that contribute to rising property tax levies and taxpayer dissatisfaction. Examine whether the current system allows taxpayers meaningful participation in determining local property tax rates. Explore changes to the appraisal process that could improve the accuracy of appraisals.

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list under “Property Tax.”)

The Committee heard testimony on the following interim charge:

Examine whether issues raised in the State Auditor's review of Chapter 313 agreements warrant action by the Legislature to improve accountability, transparency, and compliance. Examine special issues raised by Chapter 313 projects covering more than one school district.

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list under “Chapter 313.”)

The Committee heard testimony on the following interim charge:

Assess the impact of a repeal of the franchise tax on the state's economy and on revenue stability for state government. The assessment should include a dynamic analysis of the economic impact.

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list under “Franchise Tax.”)

The Committee heard testimony on the following interim charge:

Assess the impact of ongoing tax litigation, including American Multi-Cinema, Inc. v. Hegar, on the state's revenue stability.

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list under “State Tax Litigation.”)

The Committee heard testimony on the following interim charge:

Assess the competitiveness of Texas's tax structure for marine goods and services as compared to other states.

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list under “Marine Goods & Services.”)

At 2:01 p.m., on the motion of the chair and without objection, the meeting was adjourned subject to the call of the chair.

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Rep. Bonnen, Dennis, Chair

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Jennifer Rabb, Clerk