My Energy (Andrew Lopez): TAMACC E-Newsletter

Tuesday, April 8, 2025

TAMACC E-Newsletter

TAMACC E-News: Tuesday, April 8, 2025

TAMACC Urges Lawmakers to Hear the Fair Business Reimbursement Act

Outdated tax policy is draining small businesses—HB 2428 offers a fair fix

The Texas Association of Mexican American Chambers of Commerce (TAMACC), joined by a broad coalition of business organizations across the state, is calling on the House Committee on Ways and Means to urgently hear and advance House Bill 2428—the Fair Business Reimbursement Act.

For decades, Texas retailers have served as unpaid tax collectors, absorbing processing fees every time a customer pays with a credit card. These fees, often 2 to 3 percent, are charged on the entire transaction—including the sales tax, leaving businesses to lose money on funds they never keep. Current law allows only a 0.5 to 1.75 percent reimbursement, a policy created during an era when cash was king.

This outdated system disproportionately harms small and minority-owned businesses that operate on razor-thin margins. HB 2428, authored by Vice Chair Terry Canales, updates the reimbursement rate to 2.5 percent for credit card and digital transactions, bringing fairness and relief without reducing the total tax owed to the state.

“Let me be clear: Texas businesses are not asking for a handout. They are asking for fairness,” said J.R. Gonzales, Vice Chairman of TAMACC. “Retailers should not be penalized for collecting taxes on behalf of the state.”

More than half of U.S. states already provide similar reimbursement models. This bill keeps Texas competitive, encourages compliance, and strengthens the foundation of the state’s economy—its small and mid-sized businesses.

TAMACC is joined in support of this legislation by the Texas Hotel & Lodging Association, Texas Food and Fuel Association, Neighborhood Beer Garden and Bar Association of Texas, and a multitude of Texas businesses across the state. Together, we urge lawmakers to give HB 2428 the hearing and action it deserves.

TAMACC Celebrates Tejano Day:

Honoring Centuries of Heritage and Impact in Texas

In 2021, the Texas Legislature officially designated April 6 as Tejano Day, a recognition that offers Texans the opportunity each year to honor and reflect on the enduring contributions of Tejanos to the state’s rich history. For more than 300 years, Tejanos have been central to the cultural, political, and economic development of the Lone Star State.

This year, the spirit of Tejano pride was on full display on Friday, April 4, as the South Steps of the Texas Capitol were transformed into a vibrant celebration of heritage, culture, and community. The Texas Association of Mexican American Chambers of Commerce (TAMACC) partnered with a dynamic coalition of organizations—including Hispanic Advocates Business Leaders of Austin (HABLA), Economic Growth Business Incubator (EGBI), Hispanic Women’s Network of Texas (HWNT), Amigos En Azul, HOT TEJANO, LULAC, Tejano Music Alliance, Grand Prairie Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and the Regional Hispanic Contractors Association—to host this powerful event in honor of Tejano Day.

At the peak of the celebration, over 300 people gathered to take part in the festivities, turning the Capitol grounds into a joyful and energizing showcase of unity and cultural pride.

The celebration highlighted the profound legacy of Tejanos in Texas history. From founding historic cities like San Antonio and El Paso to promoting diplomacy with Native tribes, Tejanos have long played a foundational role in shaping the state. On April 6, 1813, Tejanos were the first to declare Texas independent, laying the groundwork for the Texas Revolution. Figures such as José Antonio Navarro and Juan Seguín, along with countless unnamed heroes, fought valiantly and left a legacy of courage and civic leadership that continues to inspire.

Beyond political contributions, Tejanos have been advocates for civil liberties, including freedom of speech, the press, and public education—principles that remain core to Texas values today.

A special thanks to State Representative Lulu Flores (District 51) for sponsoring the Tejano Day celebration and for her longstanding support of TAMACC and the Tejano community.

Tejano Day is more than a date on the calendar—it’s a tribute to generations who helped build Texas and a call to continue honoring their legacy through unity, celebration, and progress.

New Episode of Latino Business Report Unpacks Game-Changing Texas Bill for Small Businesses

In the latest episode of Latino Business Report, host J.R. Gonzales dives into the Fair Business Reimbursement Act—HB 2428—and the major financial boost it could bring to Texas businesses.

The episode breaks down how this bill aims to tackle unfair credit card swipe fees that disproportionately impact small and minority-owned businesses. Listeners will learn what the bill proposes, why it's gaining traction now, and which players are supporting or opposing it.

Tune in to understand how HB 2428 could reshape the financial landscape for small businesses across Texas.

Download or Listen Here

The University of Texas System

Fourteen Institutions. Unlimited Possibilities

Learn how to do business with the University of Texas System Institutions as they discuss upcoming contracting opportunities at all 14 University of Texas System Institutions and Administration.

Although this is an all-day event, registrants may choose to enjoy the entire webinar -OR- to only join during the time the Institutions of their choice are presenting.

All participants will receive a PDF copy of all presentations and a valuable University of Texas System Resource Guide.

April 23. 2025 starting at 9:00 AM on Zoom.

Texas Department of Criminal Justice

Pest Control Vendors

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice Risk Management Division is seeking vendors to provide pest control services. The meet and greet is Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at 10:00 AM in Huntsville, Texas.

For more information, contact the HUB Department at (936) 437-3776.