Texas House Bill HJR146

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment to authorize the legislature to exempt from ad valorem taxation the portion of the assessed value of a person's property that is attributable to the installation in or on the property of a rainwater harvesting or graywater system.

Impact

If enacted, HJR146 would require an amendment to Article VIII of the Texas Constitution. The proposed changes would allow for a legislative framework to establish specific guidelines and parameters related to the exemption. This could potentially lead to increased adoption of rainwater harvesting and graywater systems across the state, thereby supporting the state's broader goals of sustainability and resource conservation. The financial relief provided through the tax exemption could make these investments more feasible for many property owners.

Summary

HJR146 proposes a constitutional amendment that authorizes the Texas legislature to exempt from ad valorem taxation the portion of a person's property value that is attributed to the installation of rainwater harvesting or graywater systems. This bill is aimed at promoting the use of sustainable water management practices by providing an incentive for property owners to invest in such systems. By eliminating the tax burden associated with the value added by these systems, the bill seeks to encourage more residents and businesses to adopt environmentally friendly practices.

Contention

The discussions around HJR146 reflect a balance between promoting environmental sustainability and addressing concerns from various stakeholders about potential revenue impacts. While proponents argue that the bill encourages sustainable practices and reduces the financial burden on property owners, opponents may raise concerns regarding the potential loss of tax revenue that could affect local services and projects. Moreover, there could be debates surrounding the effectiveness of tax exemptions versus other incentives in promoting the adoption of such systems.

Voting_history

HJR146 is set to be submitted to voters in an election scheduled for November 5, 2019. The ballot will provide the public an opportunity to express their approval or disapproval of the proposed amendment, setting a crucial precedent for future legislative efforts aimed at environmental improvements in Texas.