Yes, I totally agree that the $55.25 is still a tax to obtain a license for a privilege!
Nothing is wrong with acquiring training, but I feel that government required training and licensing to carry a firearm is an infringement on a person's right to keep and bear arms.
My only point in all this is that there is perception that Texas is such an easy and liberal state regarding the carrying of firearms, specifically handguns, when, in reality, Texas is more restrictive than the majority of states.