Texas House Bill HB952

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the qualification of land for appraisal for ad valorem tax purposes as qualified open-space land.

Impact

The impact of HB 952 could be significant for landowners who utilize their properties for agricultural or ecological purposes. By firmly establishing the criteria for what constitutes qualified open-space land, the bill aims to provide greater certainty for landowners regarding their tax liabilities. This change may encourage more individuals to maintain land for agricultural uses, supporting local agriculture and conservation efforts. Additionally, the bill’s provisions regarding land acquisition could also promote consolidation among agricultural landowners, which could further enhance land use efficiency.

Summary

House Bill 952 focuses on the qualification criteria for land to be considered as qualified open-space land for ad valorem tax purposes. The bill seeks to amend Section 23.51 of the Tax Code to clarify the requirements for land to qualify for tax appraisal under the designation of open-space land. It emphasizes the significance of land that has been primarily utilized for agricultural purposes or as ecological laboratories by educational institutions for a specified period, ensuring that such land can continue to benefit from favorable tax treatment.

Contention

While the bill appears straightforward in intent, it may provoke discussions around the implications for land management practices. It allows land currently used for wildlife management to qualify for appraisal as open-space land regardless of how it was previously used, which could raise concerns among some stakeholders about how this classification affects conservation practices. There may also be pushback from those who feel that the adjustments in qualifications could lead to increased scrutiny over land practices and possible changes in land-value assessments.