Chapter 44 Tax Abatement Amendments

Supported proposed Chapter 44 amendments and urged the city to match Harris County standards by rejecting tax breaks for companies with wage theft or OSHA violations.

Expressed support for worker protections and policies promoting broad economic growth for all Houstonians.

Expressed strong support from the Workers' Defense Project for strengthening labor standards, fair wages, and safe workplaces in tax abatement policies.

Raised concerns about tax abatements being granted to data centers without sufficient community notice or planning.

Representing the Gulf Coast Area Labor Federation, expressed support for required apprenticeship utilization, audits, and continued collaboration on revised language.

Questioned the effectiveness of trickle-down tax incentives, urged stronger enforcement and auditing, and highlighted environmental justice concerns in vulnerable communities.