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Summary: HB 2712 would make energy storage systems in non-attainment areas exempt from property taxes if the exemption is adopted by their government taxing unit, and if they meet any government agency regulations that prevent, monitor, control or reduce air pollution. They must have a capacity of at least 10 megawatts and be installed after January 1st, 2014. Once adopted by a political taxing unit, an exemption can be repealed. HB 2712 provides additional state aid to school districts for funds lost due to this property tax exemption for energy storage systems. The comptroller will determine the amount of state aid, and the comptroller’s decision is final.
Analysis: HB 2712 provides a narrow property tax exemption to owners of energy storage systems and requires other taxpayers across the state to reimburse school districts with state aid money. If it were only the tax exemption, TPPA would be able to support HB 2712 on the basis that it limits government revenue and promotes property rights, even though it is a narrow exemption. Requiring taxpayers to reimburse school districts for the property tax loss, however, is an unfair shift in the tax burden that does not limit government. Vote “no,” on HB 2712.