Highlights 77th Texas Legislature - Senate

_________________ E CONOMIC
CONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
77 th Texas Legislature
North American Free Trade Agreement Impact Zones - H.B. 2808
by Representatives Chavez and Solis
Senate Sponsor: Senator Shapleigh
Border communities have shown some signs of economic growth following ratification of the North
American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). In order to expedite the construction of new businesses in
these communities, the establishment of zones in which certain construction fees are waived, taxes are
refunded or reduced, and baseline performance standards established would provide incentives for certain
building opportunities.
Authorizes a municipality to create a NAFTA impact zone (zone) if it is determined that such a zone would
promote business opportunities and economic development as well as employment opportunities for
residents of the zone.
Requires a business that would operate in this zone to receive certain benefits as a result of the waiver or
adoption of fees related to the construction of buildings in the zone.
Requires businesses to report annually to the governing bodies of the municipality on the percentage of
individuals hired by the business that receive NAFTA assistance.
Commercialization of Fuel Cell Technologies - H.B. 2845
by Representative Danburg
Senate Sponsor: Senator Cain
Increased population in urban areas combined with a growing high tech industry has increased the need for
reliable electrical power which in the past has been met through the construction of large central station
power plants.
Requires the State Energy Conservation Office (energy office) to develop a statewide plan for the
coordinated acceleration of the commercialization of fuel cell generation in this state. Sets forth
requirements for the plan.
Requires the energy office, in developing the plan and proposed rules, guidelines, and operating
procedures, to seek the assistance and support of certain entities. Sets forth requirements for the plan.
Requires the energy office to appoint a fuel cell initiative advisory committee to advise the energy office
regarding development of the plan and to assist the energy office in meeting the goals of this Act.
Counties May Create Economic Development Programs - H.B. 2870
by Representative Ramsay
Senate Sponsor: Senator Staples
Under Texas law, a municipality may offer tax abatements to certain businesses to promote economic
development. H.B. 2870 explicitly extends this mandate to counties.
Senate Research Center 79