We’re 31 days into the 140-day legislative session and no heart-pumping news to report yet; however, we now know a few important things that give us pause and comfort:
LEADERSHIP IS STICKING TO THE PROMISE OF NO NEW TAXES
• Both House and Senate Chambers have each filed a base budget (HB 1 and SB 1) that includes no new revenue sources but instead proposes significant cuts to state government. The Governor’s proposal does the same – even going so far as to eliminate four agencies: Texas Historic Commission, Arts Commission, Board of Land Surveyors, and Board of Geoscientists. All proposed budgets refrain from using the Rainy Day Fund which is projected to have about $9.4 billion.
o Good News: We’re safe at the moment on the issue of taxing services. Bad News: Tweaks to the underperforming franchise tax are being explored through a number of bills. We don’t know yet how these “tweaks” might impact us. And, with no new revenue streams to make up for the $27 billion shortfall, we should expect to see proposals to allow bidding of architectural services (one has already been filed) and expect to see proposals that would allow for standardizing architectural plans for K-12.
KEY HOUSE COMMITTEE LEADERSHIP IS FAVORABLE TO ARCHITECTS
• Yesterday, the Speaker released his House Committee Assignments. TSA is pleased to see good, smart House members appointed to leadership positions.
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