HB 4811 – Special subsidy for SXSW

HB 4811 would make SXSW eligible for state taxpayer subsidies under the Major Events Reimbursement Program, a corporate welfare scheme intended for large-scale sporting and entertainment events. It carves out a special exemption so SXSW can access public funds without meeting the usual competitive site selection requirement. Rather than fostering fair competition or market discipline, the bill prioritizes one specific event for special treatment. Providing subsidies to a privately-run festival like SXSW is a poor use of limited state funds. If SXSW cannot operate profitably without public money, it should reduce its expenses or raise private investment. Taxpayers should not be forced to bankroll events that primarily benefit private enterprises and local hotel and tourism industries.