Texas House Bill HB824

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the exemption of certain property from municipal drainage service charges.

Impact

The passage of HB 824 is expected to have significant implications for local government finances and the residents impacted by drainage service charges. By enabling exemptions for specific groups, municipalities may see a reduction in their revenue from these service charges. However, proponents argue that the social benefits derived from supporting vulnerable populations justify the potential loss in revenue. This legislative change reinforces the state's commitment to assisting those who have served in the military and addressing the needs of the elderly and disabled residents.

Summary

House Bill 824 proposes amendments to the Local Government Code, specifically addressing municipal drainage service charges. The bill introduces provisions that allow municipalities to exempt certain properties from these charges under specific circumstances. The exemptions can be granted for properties that serve as the principal residence of individuals who meet certain criteria such as being disabled, 65 years of age or older, veterans of the armed services, or active military personnel on deployment. This bill aims to alleviate some of the financial burdens on vulnerable populations regarding municipal drainage fees.

Contention

While the bill garnered substantial support during voting, with 134 yeas and only 10 nays, there may be underlying contention regarding its financial implications for municipalities and county governments that rely on drainage fees for funding maintenance and infrastructure. Critics of the bill may argue that exempting these groups could lead to increased financial pressure on local governments, necessitating budget adjustments or cuts in other services. However, supporters maintain that the need for such exemptions is essential in helping those in vulnerable situations manage their financial responsibilities.