Bill > HB4308

This bill creates a new legal framework for establishing County Industrial Development Districts (CIDDs) in Texas, providing counties with a tool to attract and support major industrial employers. The bill allows county commissioners courts to create these districts through a voter election, with the primary goals of economic development, job creation, and infrastructure improvement. The districts would be governed by a nine-member board appointed by the county commissioners court, serving staggered four-year terms. Key powers of these districts include providing infrastructure, acquiring and developing property, entering into agreements with public and private entities, and offering economic development programs. The districts can impose assessments on property within their boundaries and can issue bonds to fund projects. They may also levy a sales and use tax (up to a certain percentage) with voter approval, and the revenue can be used for district purposes. The districts are designed to supplement, not replace, existing county services and are intended to create incentives for industrial development, particularly in areas competing with other states for major employers. The bill includes provisions for district administration, financial management, tax and bond issuance, and potential dissolution, with oversight from the county commissioners court. The districts are specifically authorized to support advanced manufacturing, job training, and infrastructure development to attract and retain primary jobs.

Business and Industry, Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4308