SB 2322 – Weakens JETI accountability safeguards

SB 2322 creates a carve-out in the JETI property tax abatement program by removing the requirement that energy companies prove a need for the incentive to choose Texas over other states. This opens the door for utility companies to secure tax breaks regardless of whether they were ever seriously considering another location. As a result, it effectively turns the JETI program from a competitive economic development tool into a guaranteed giveaway for these companies. By eliminating safeguards, SB 2322 weakens fiscal accountability and increases corporate welfare from taxpayer handouts. This sets a dangerous precedent for future erosion of the already limited taxpayer protections in economic incentive programs.