Texas House Bill HJR17

Texas 2021 - 87th 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, this amendment would allow the legislature to establish regulations that facilitate the exemption, thereby potentially reducing the tax burden for homeowners and businesses investing in these environmentally friendly technologies. This could also incentivize more property owners to install such systems, contributing to water conservation efforts across the state. The amendment would amend Article VIII of the Texas Constitution, specifically adding a new section to address this tax exemption.

Summary

HJR17 is a joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment to empower the Texas legislature to exempt from ad valorem taxation the portion of an individual's property assessed value that pertains to the installation of rainwater harvesting or graywater systems. This legislative move aims to encourage the adoption of sustainable water conservation practices among property owners, aligning with broader environmental goals. The proposed amendment reflects an increasing focus on sustainability, particularly in light of ongoing challenges related to water resource management in Texas.

Contention

While the bill presents opportunities for promoting conservation, its consideration could raise debates about the broader implications on property tax revenues and legislative control. Supporters may argue that this measure aligns with favors for sustainability initiatives and could lead to long-term resource savings, while opponents may express concerns over funding for public services that rely on property taxes. The balance between encouraging environmental practices and maintaining stable funding for essential services remains a notable point of contention.