Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1951

Filed
3/5/25  
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the imposition of a penalty for failure to timely file a rendition statement or property report with the chief appraiser of an appraisal district.

Impact

The implementation of SB1951 is significant as it modifies existing taxation procedures, particularly by emphasizing the necessity for property owners to file appropriate documents with appraisal districts. This change is intended to streamline the property tax assessment process and ensure that all property owners are uniformly subject to penalties for late filings. By formalizing penalties, the bill aims to reduce instances of non-compliance and enhance participation in the property tax system.

Summary

Senate Bill 1951 introduces a legislative change regarding penalties for failing to file a timely rendition statement or property report with the chief appraiser of an appraisal district. Specifically, the bill mandates a penalty amounting to 10% of the total taxes imposed on the property for the year, reinforcing the importance of timely reporting by property owners. The bill seeks to enhance compliance and accountability within property taxation processes, potentially increasing tax revenue for local governments.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB1951 appears to be generally supportive among proponents who view it as a necessary step to improve the efficacy of property tax collection and valuation processes. Critics, however, may express concerns regarding the fairness of imposing penalties, particularly for those who may face difficulties in meeting filing deadlines. This divide emphasizes the broader tensions in tax legislation between enforcing compliance and ensuring equitable treatment of property owners.

Contention

Notable points of contention center around the introduction of penalties and their implications for property owners, especially regarding the fairness and proportionality of such sanctions. Some stakeholders may argue that increased penalties could disproportionately affect low-income property owners or those less familiar with the filing process. Additionally, how strictly the appraisers enforce these penalties once the bill passes could be a source of future debate among lawmakers and community advocates advocating for various interests within the property taxation landscape.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Tax Code

  • Chapter 22. Renditions And Other Reports
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 28

Companion Bills

TX HB3258

Identical Relating to the imposition of a penalty for failure to timely file a rendition statement or property report with the chief appraiser of an appraisal district.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.