Heflin-Authored Economic Development Bill Passes Texas House

(Austin, TX - May 15, 2009) - An economic development bill authored by State Representative Joe Heflin passed the Texas House of Representatives on a vote of 143-0 today.  Rep. Heflin's House Bill 3676 extends a portion of the Texas Economic Development Act that was set to expire in 2011.  Rep. Heflin said the extension is absolutely critical to keeping Texas "open for business" and for keeping the state's economic development climate among the best in the nation.

"This legislation is about job creation and capital investment," Heflin explained.  "It will help both businesses and workers, and it will help ensure property tax fairness for individual property owners.  It's truly a win-win-win for everyone."

According to Rep. Heflin, the Texas Economic Development Act, originally passed in 2001, has been one of the state's most valuable economic development tools in bringing new investments and jobs to Texas.  Heflin's HB 3676 leaves the intent of the original economic development program in place to spur economic development in all parts of Texas and in all industries, while clarifying certain tax abatement and funding issues that have arisen since original passage.

"My bill will help Texas remain the number one spot in the nation for business expansion," Rep. Heflin continued.  "In addition, the bill promotes greater accountability and transparency for businesses receiving tax abatements.  It will help ensure that promised investments and new jobs are realized, or require that companies receiving tax abatements pay applicable property taxes."

HB 3676 was one of a very small number of bills carried on the major state calendar in the Texas House of Representatives this session, and it is unusual for a second-term representative such as Rep. Heflin to carry a major state bill.  HB 3676 now must pass the Texas Senate before being sent to the Governor.   

Rep. Heflin represents Texas House District 85, including Borden, Crosby, Fisher, Floyd, Garza, Glasscock, Hale, Howard, Jones, Kent, Lynn, Irion, Reagan, Sterling, Stonewall, and Terry Counties.  He may be reached at his Capitol Office in Austin, 512.463.0604, at his District Office in Crosbyton, 806.675.1583, or in Big Spring, at 432.213.2897.