Texas Legislature Announces Study of Key Tax, Retail, and Food Safety Issues
Texas Lt. Governor David Dewhurst and Speaker of the Texas House of Representatives Joe Straus each announced legislative issues that will be studied by senate and house committees during 2010, leading up to the next Texas legislative session in 2011. The results of these studies (such as revisions to the state's sales and franchise tax) may ultimately be filed as bills during the legislative session.
Estos estudios le brindan una gran oportunidad para participar en el proceso legislativo de Texas, al opinar sobre cuestiones que afectan a su sector y a su forma de hacer negocios en Texas. Los cambios en la legislación estatal podrían dar lugar a un entorno empresarial más favorable para su sector o crear obstáculos que aumenten los costes de hacer negocios en el estado. Es importante que participe activamente en los asuntos legislativos, ya que es muy probable que sus competidores también lo hagan.
The interim studies will include public hearings, during which opportunities exist to educate legislators and staff on the relevant topics. The studies also lead to the generation of written reports that are circulated to all members of the legislature. Thus, opportunities exist for your position on an issue to be included in – or excluded from – the results of a legislative study.
Issues of Key Importance
Según lo dispuesto por el vicegobernador Dewhurst y el presidente Straus, a continuación se incluye la lista de temas de estudio que probablemente sean importantes para su sector:
- Monitor the revised franchise tax and identify changes to simplify the tax and improve compliance and fairness. This study could include potential tax deduction for items such as compensation for independent contractors and providers of retail services. House Committee on Ways and Means.
- Examine the state's major tax exemptions to determine how the current costs and benefits compare with the original legislative objectives. Make recommendations for adjustments as needed. House Committee on Ways and Means.
- Study current federal, state and local safeguards to protect our food supply. Identify gaps that may exist in Texas statute, agency roles, and authority for ensuring a safe food supply for Texas, including imported fruits and vegetables. Examine the impact of revised federal regulations on the state and the potential impact of pending federal legislation. Examine the existing capabilities of the public health system on the border to accomplish public health surveillance of food. Senate Committee on Agriculture & Rural Affairs.
- Estudiar el impacto de los herbicidas transportados por el viento en el cultivo de la uva y otras producciones agrícolas. Formular recomendaciones para mejorar la seguridad y la calidad de los productos agrícolas de Texas. Comité Senatorial de Agricultura y Asuntos Rurales.
- Identify any gaps in Texas laws that may prevent coordinated efforts, both statewide and on the border, to ensure a safe food supply. Joint Interim Charge with House Committee on Border and Intergovernmental Affairs, and House Committee on Public Health.
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