House Gives Early Approval to Small Business Bill

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) _ The Texas House has given preliminary approval to a bill urging the governor to consider small businesses for Texas Enterprise Fund grants.

The enterprise fund is used by the governor to try to create jobs and lure businesses to the state.

The House voted 145-1 on Wednesday to tentatively approve the proposal by Rep. Patrick Rose, a Dripping Springs Democrat. There still must be a final vote.

Lawmakers spent plenty of time debating the bill and attempting to add on provisions. One amendment is designed to prevent enterprise fund money from being used for executive bonuses. Another would encourage grants in the renewable energy field.

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