Texas House Bill HJR187

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

• Filed: 3/10/23

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment to authorize the legislature to provide for an exemption from ad valorem taxation of the amount of the market value of real property that arises from the installation in the property of certain energy efficiency-related improvements.

Impact

If passed, HJR187 would directly influence state laws regarding property taxation by allowing for targeted exemptions that encourage energy improvements. By exempting part of the value added by energy efficiency upgrades from taxation, the resolution seeks to incentivize property improvements that could lead to reduced energy consumption and increased energy conservation efforts. This could have a long-term positive impact on the state's energy grid and overall environmental sustainability.

Summary

HJR187 is a joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment that would authorize the Texas legislature to provide exemptions from ad valorem taxation for the market value of real property that results from specific energy efficiency-related improvements. This amendment aims to facilitate tax relief for property owners who invest in energy efficiency upgrades, thereby promoting more sustainable energy practices within the state. The proposed changes would permit the legislature to define the term 'energy efficiency-related improvement' and set further eligibility requirements for these exemptions.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HJR187 appears to be largely positive, particularly among supporters who view it as a necessary step toward enhancing energy efficiency and providing tax relief to property owners. There is an expectation that voters will be supportive of the amendment, recognizing both the financial benefits and the broader implications for energy preservation. This sentiment is also reflected in the discussions within the legislative committee, suggesting a belief that this resolution aligns with the interests of Texans seeking to improve their energy efficiency.

Contention

While the discussions reported do not highlight significant contention, there could be concerns regarding the potential implications of this tax exemption on local tax revenues. Opponents might argue that exemptions may disproportionately affect funding for local public services that rely on property taxes. However, the general tone in the legislative commentary appears to focus on the benefits rather than the drawbacks, indicating that while there may be some concerns over potential revenue impacts, they have not been a major point of debate in the current discussions.