AUSTIN – The Texas model of low taxes, no individual income tax, and moderate regulation has generated prosperity for many Texans. Yet, the business franchise tax and local property taxes draw criticism for hindering economic opportunity. To examine potential improvements to the state’s tax structure, the Texas Public Policy Foundation’s Center for Fiscal Policy will host the panel “Advancing the Texas Model: Will a Simple Tax System Drive Prosperity?” at the 14th Annual Policy Orientation for the Texas Legislature on Thursday, January 7, 2016 at 3:30 pm CST at the Hilton Austin Hotel in Salon K.
“Whether an individual or company, excessive taxes limit their ability to pursue their dreams,” said Dr. Vance Ginn, economist with the Center for Fiscal Policy at the Texas Public Policy Foundation. “The individual is limited in maintaining or improving their standard of living and the company is limited in their ability to stay in business and provide jobs. It’s time that legislators start discussing which taxes should stay and which should go.”
Panelists include:
- Senator Paul Bettencourt, Chairman, Select Committee on Property Tax Reform and Relief, Texas State Senate
- Senator Craig Estes, Texas State Senate
- Scott Drenkard, Economist and Director of State Projects, Tax Foundation
- Representative Chris Turner, Texas House of Representatives
- Dr. Vance Ginn, Economist, Center for Fiscal Policy, Texas Public Policy Foundation (Moderator)
For over thirteen years, the Texas Public Policy Foundation’s Policy Orientation has been one of the nation’s top policy conferences, selling out each year while bringing together lawmakers, policy experts, and engaged citizens from across the political spectrum to discuss critical issues facing the Lone Star State and America. This year’s program includes more than 35 panel discussions and debates on the major issues affecting Texas’ future.
Members of the public and media who wish to attend may register and view the agenda at: www.PolicyOrientation.com
Keynote and plenary sessions will be livestreamed at: txpo.li/TPPFlive
Dr. Vance Ginn is an economist for the Center for Fiscal Policy at the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
The Texas Public Policy Foundation is a non-profit, free-market research institute based in Austin, Texas.