H.B. No. 5273 proposes a franchise tax credit aimed at incentivizing licensed child-care centers in Texas to expand their capacity for child care. The bill introduces a new subchapter, Subchapter P-1, to Chapter 171 of the Tax Code, which defines a "licensed child-care center" and outlines the eligibility criteria for the tax credit. To qualify, a taxable entity must operate one or more licensed child-care centers that are certified in the Texas Rising Star Program. The credit amount is determined based on the percentage increase in capacity, with specific percentages of additional salary costs covered by the credit depending on the level of capacity increase.

The bill also stipulates that taxable entities can continue to claim the credit for two subsequent reports if they maintain the increased capacity. However, the total credit claimed cannot exceed the franchise tax due after applying any other applicable credits. Additionally, the bill prohibits the assignment of the credit to another entity unless all assets are transferred in the same transaction. The comptroller is tasked with adopting necessary rules for the implementation and administration of this subchapter. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, and applies to reports due on or after that date.

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