In Texas, a new housing tax credit is working its way through the pipelines of the legislative system.

In March, Congressman David Leibowitz introduced HB 2184 deals with a franchise tax credit for building new single-family homes or duplexes that exceed energy standards as set in the Texas state energy code. If enacted, builders could receive a credit of up to $25 toward the franchise tax. The bill would offer a tax credit of $10K for homes that are 15% above the energy code and increasing on a graduated scale up to a $25K tax credit for homes built 30% above the energy code.

HBAs in Texas are currently working to push HB 2184 through the legislature, as this tax credit could provide a much needed boost to home builders in the state. This work, however, is not without a few hurdles.

“Our biggest issue right now is finding a way to offset the $17 million fiscal note that is attached to it,” commented Phil Crone , the Government Affairs Specialist of the HBA of Greater Dallas, ”Hopefully there is an avenue in the stimulus money to do so.”

A public hearing for HB 2184 took place on April 22, and the bill is now currently pending in the Ways and Means committee.