Texas House Bill HB1703

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the eligibility of a person to serve on the appraisal review board of an appraisal district.

Impact

One of the ramifications of HB 1703 is its emphasis on regulating the composition of appraisal review boards in larger counties, specifically those with populations of 550,000 or more. By establishing this eligibility framework, the bill impacts local governance structures by mandating a cooling-off period for board members who may have been in long-term positions. This could potentially enhance the responsiveness and adaptability of these boards to changing local real estate markets and housing issues, aligning with the need for dynamic oversight in a rapidly evolving economic climate.

Summary

House Bill 1703 proposes amendments to the Texas Tax Code specifically concerning the eligibility criteria for serving on an appraisal review board within an appraisal district. This bill introduces stricter term limits, stating that individuals who have served three consecutive terms on such boards will be ineligible for reappointment until a two-year period has elapsed. The intention behind this legislation is to encourage board turnover and ensure fresh perspectives on appraisal review boards, particularly in larger counties with significant populations.

Contention

While the bill aims to improve board efficiency and effectiveness, there may be contention regarding the enforcement of such term limits. Critics might argue that institutional knowledge is crucial for continuity in decision-making processes and that frequent turnover could lead to a loss of vital expertise. Supporters, however, would contend that the benefits of diversifying board membership and preventing the entrenchment of long-serving members outweigh potential drawbacks. Therefore, this legislation highlights the balance between stability and fresh perspectives in local governance.