Proposing a constitutional amendment to authorize the legislature to limit the maximum appraised value of real property for ad valorem tax purposes.
Impact
If HJR30 is enacted, it would significantly alter the way property taxes are assessed, potentially limiting the burden on property owners as market values increase. By establishing a cap on the appraised value that can be taxed, the resolution could help prevent sudden spikes in property taxes that may otherwise lead to affordability issues for homeowners. Moreover, this amendment would have the effect of standardizing tax assessments across different regions, which could enhance predictability and transparency in property taxation.
Summary
House Joint Resolution 30 (HJR30) proposes a constitutional amendment that aims to grant the Texas legislature the authority to limit the maximum appraised value of real property for ad valorem tax purposes. Specifically, the amendment asserts that for tax purposes, the maximum appraised value of a property may not exceed 105 percent (or a higher percentage) of the appraised value for the preceding tax year. This measure is intended to provide property owners with some financial relief by controlling the increase of property taxes based on rapid appraisals that can occur in hot real estate markets.
Contention
The discussion surrounding HJR30 may raise several points of contention. Supporters of the bill argue that it serves an essential purpose in protecting taxpayers from excessive taxation during times of increasing property values, thereby making home ownership more sustainable for average citizens. Conversely, detractors may contend that such a cap could lead to reduced revenue for local governments, potentially hampering their ability to fund essential services, such as education and public infrastructure. There is also a concern about whether a fixed percentage cap might conflict with different local economic realities, where property values could be more stagnant or volatile.
Voting_history
As of now, HJR30 has yet to move beyond the filing stage, with discussions in future legislative sessions anticipated. The resolution is set to be submitted to voters at an election to be held on May 2, 2026, allowing the public to weigh in directly on this significant change to property tax law.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to authorize the legislature to limit the maximum appraised value of real property for ad valorem tax purposes to 105 percent or more of the appraised value of the property for the preceding tax year.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to authorize the legislature to limit the maximum appraised value of real property for ad valorem tax purposes to 103.5 percent or more of the appraised value of the property for the preceding tax year.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to authorize the legislature to limit the maximum appraised value of commercial real property for ad valorem tax purposes.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to authorize the legislature to establish a limit on the maximum appraised value of real property other than a residence homestead for ad valorem tax purposes.