The proposed bill, H.B. No. 151, aims to promote transparency in state taxation by establishing a new chapter in the Texas Tax Code titled "Honesty in State Taxation." The bill outlines legislative findings that state taxes have often been obscured by being labeled as "fees," "levies," "surcharges," "assessments," "fines," or "penalties." To address this issue, the bill mandates that state taxes, including regulatory taxes, must be accurately identified in all new statutes and resolutions, and any existing references to state charges that do not correctly identify them as taxes must be amended accordingly.

Additionally, the bill requires state agencies to adhere to the same standards in their rules, materials, publications, and electronic media. It also establishes a review process for state agencies to ensure compliance with the new terminology requirements. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, and aims to enhance the clarity and honesty of state taxation practices in Texas.

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