Relating to the requirements regarding notice of certain property tax-related information to be provided by taxing units and appraisal districts.
Impact
The implementation of HB17 is expected to significantly impact local government operations by providing clearer information to taxpayers. By requiring that notices not only include the proposed tax rates but also associated inflation rates and population growth data, taxpayers will have a better context for evaluating tax proposals. Moreover, it aims to potentially foster trust in local governance, as increased transparency may mitigate concerns about arbitrary or unjustified tax hikes.
Summary
House Bill 17 aims to enhance transparency and accountability in property tax-related matters by imposing specific notice requirements on taxing units and appraisal districts within Texas. The bill mandates that these entities disclose detailed information regarding property tax revenues, inflation rates, and population changes when announcing proposed tax rates. This change is designed to equip property owners with the necessary knowledge to understand how tax proposals may affect their financial obligations, especially in the context of fluctuating property values and local budgetary needs.
Contention
While the bill seeks to improve taxpayer awareness, it has been met with some contention regarding the increased administrative burden it may impose on local taxing authorities. Critics express concern that the added requirements for documentation and reporting might strain resources, particularly in smaller jurisdictions. There is also the argument that despite the intentions to enhance transparency, the technical complexity of the information required might confuse rather than inform the average taxpayer.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Education Code
Chapter 44. Fiscal Management
Section: New Section
Section: 0041
Tax Code
Chapter 26. Assessment
Section: 061
Section: 062
Section: New Section
Water Code
Chapter 49. Provisions Applicable To All Districts
Relating to the calculation of certain ad valorem tax rates of a taxing unit for a year in which a property owner provides notice that the owner intends to appeal an order of an appraisal review board determining a protest by the owner regarding the appraisal of the owner's property.
Relating to the calculation of certain ad valorem tax rates of a taxing unit for a year in which a property owner provides notice that the owner intends to appeal an order of an appraisal review board determining a protest by the owner regarding the appraisal of the owner's property.
Relating to the calculation of certain ad valorem tax rates of a taxing unit for a year in which a property owner provides notice that the owner intends to appeal an order of an appraisal review board determining a protest by the owner regarding the appraisal of the owner's property.
Relating to the calculation of certain ad valorem tax rates of a taxing unit for a year in which a property owner provides notice that the owner intends to appeal an order of an appraisal review board determining a protest by the owner regarding the appraisal of the owner's property.
Relating to the calculation of certain ad valorem tax rates of a taxing unit for a year in which a property owner provides notice that the owner intends to appeal an order of an appraisal review board determining a protest by the owner regarding the appraisal of the owner's property.
Relating to providing property tax relief through the public school finance system, exemptions, limitations on appraisals and taxes, and property tax administration; authorizing the imposition of a fee.
Relating to an exemption from ad valorem taxation by certain taxing units of a portion of the appraised value of the residence homestead of the parent or guardian of a person who is disabled and who resides with the parent or guardian.
Relating to an exemption from ad valorem taxation by certain taxing units of a portion of the appraised value of the residence homestead of the parent or guardian of a person who is disabled and who resides with the parent or guardian.
Relating to providing property tax relief through the public school finance system, exemptions, limitations on appraisals and taxes, and property tax administration; authorizing the imposition of a fee.
Legacy fund definitions and the legacy earnings fund; to provide a statement of legislative intent; to provide for a legislative management study, to provide an appropriation; to provide an effective date; to provide an expiration date; and to declare an emergency.