Bill > HB4149

This bill amends Section 406.609 of the Texas Government Code, specifically modifying the criteria for the Comptroller's recommendation of economic development project applications. The bill adds a specific condition for certain types of projects (related to Section 403.602(8)(A)(i)(a), (c), (d), or (ii)) where the Comptroller must determine that the agreement is a compelling factor in a competitive site selection process, meaning the applicant would not make the proposed investment in Texas without the agreement. The Comptroller must consider various factors in making this determination, including workforce, regulatory environment, infrastructure, transportation, market conditions, and investment alternatives. The bill maintains existing requirements that the project must be eligible, likely to generate sufficient tax revenue to offset potential school district tax losses, and, if applicable, located in a qualified opportunity zone. The Comptroller must provide written notice of their decision within 60 days of determining an application is complete, and must send the application and supporting documents to the governor and applicable school district if recommending approval. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, suggesting a carefully planned implementation timeline for these changes to the state's economic development incentive process.

Budget and Finance

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4149