HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

COMMITTEE:   Ways & Means 

TIME & DATE: 10:00 AM, Monday, September 26, 2016 

PLACE:       E2.012 
CHAIR:       Rep. Dennis Bonnen 

The House Committee on Ways & Means will meet to hear invited testimony only on the following interim charges:

1.   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.

2.   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.

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

4.   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.

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

8.   Monitor implementation of the increased residence homestead exemption as approved by the voters in Proposition 1 (SJR 1 (84R)). Determine the amount of property tax relief for homeowners, taking into account increases in appraisals and local property tax rates. Additionally, determine the cost to the state to make up the revenue loss for school districts.

The public is invited to submit written testimony to the committee on any of its interim charges, including charges 5, 7 and 9 (not listed above). Email testimony to the committee clerk at jennifer.rabb_hc@house.texas.gov or mail to House Committee on Ways & Means, P. O. Box 2910, Austin, Texas 78768-2910. Written testimony must be received in the committee office by Noon on Friday, September 23, 2016.

NOTICE OF ASSISTANCE AT PUBLIC MEETINGS

Persons with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who may need assistance, such as a sign language interpreter, are requested to contact Stacey Nicchio at (512) 463-0850, 72 hours prior to the meeting so that appropriate arrangements can be made.