Executive Order RP52 - November 21, 2005

Relating to the creation of the Texas Tax Reform Commission to accept public input on and recommend changes to the tax structure.

BY THE
GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS
Executive Department
Austin, Texas
November 21, 2005

WHEREAS, providing tax reform and property tax relief are essential to promoting long-term economic growth and ensuring a stable, long-term source of revenue for public schools; and

WHEREAS, the current tax system fails to provide a level playing field for employers and is overly reliant on property taxes, thereby creating a significant barrier to homeownership and business expansion; and

WHEREAS, reforms are needed to bring greater fairness to the tax code and tax collection system, permanently lower the property tax burden for all taxpayers and ensure public schools have a reliable revenue source; and

WHEREAS, the public should have the opportunity to provide input and comments on these important issues;

NOW THEREFORE, I, Rick Perry, Governor of Texas, by virtue of the power and authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the State of Texas, do hereby order the following:

Creation of Advisory Commission. The Texas Tax Reform Commission ("Commission") is hereby created to examine relevant issues and make recommendations for changes to the tax structure to fund schools and to reduce property taxes.

Composition. The Commission shall consist of Commissioners appointed by the Governor to serve at the pleasure of the Governor. The Governor may designate a member of the Commission to serve as chair of the Commission.

Advisory Councils and Agency Support. As the Commission deems necessary to carry out its duties, the Commission may appoint sub-committees. The Office of the Governor and other state agencies may provide staff to assist the Commission as necessary.

Recommendations and Report. The Commission shall develop recommendations to modernize the current tax structure, reduce property taxes, and provide a long-term, stable source of revenue for public schools.

The Commission shall submit a full report, including findings and legislative recommendations, to the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and Speaker of the House of Representatives. Subsequent work of the Commission may be addressed in supplementary reports as appropriate.

This executive order supersedes all previous orders on this matter that are in conflict or inconsistent with its terms. Unless extended, this order shall expire on September 1, 2007.

Given under my hand this the 21st day of November, 2005.

RICK PERRY(Signature)
Governor of Texas

Attested by:
ROGER WILLIAMS(Signature)
Secretary of State