Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1801

Filed
3/7/23  
Out of Senate Committee
3/29/23  
Voted on by Senate
4/12/23  
Out of House Committee
5/5/23  
Voted on by House
5/12/23  
Governor Action
5/27/23  

Caption

Relating to a requirement that each appraisal district periodically confirm that recipients of residence homestead exemptions qualify for those exemptions.

Impact

The passage of SB 1801 is expected to strengthen oversight within the appraisal districts and enhance accountability regarding the administration of property tax exemptions. By requiring regular reviews, the legislation aims to limit fraudulent claims and ensure that only qualifying residents benefit from homestead exemptions. This could lead to improved equity in the property tax system, as funds that would otherwise be lost due to unqualified exemptions can be redirected to municipal services and other community needs.

Summary

Senate Bill 1801 mandates that each appraisal district in Texas must develop a program to periodically verify that recipients of residence homestead exemptions continue to qualify for these exemptions. This is an important measure aimed at ensuring that tax benefits are appropriately allocated to eligible homeowners and prevents potential abuse of the exemption system. Under this law, chief appraisers are required to review each exemption at least once every five years, beginning with the implementation of the program on January 1, 2024.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 1801 appears to be predominantly positive, with strong bipartisan support noted during discussions and voting. The bill passed through the Senate and House with significant majority votes, reflecting the legislators' recognition of the importance of maintaining the integrity of the homestead exemption process. Stakeholders involved in property tax discussions, including local government officials, have also expressed support for measures that enhance the legitimacy of tax exemption claims.

Contention

While the overall reception of SB 1801 has been favorable, some potential points of contention may arise regarding the implementation of compliance processes within appraisal districts. There may be concerns about the effectiveness of the review program and whether districts will have adequate resources to carry out the required evaluations efficiently. Additionally, public discourse may focus on how these reviews could affect current exemption recipients, sparking discussions about fairness and communication from appraisal offices to property owners.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Tax Code

  • Chapter 11. Taxable Property And Exemptions
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 43
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

TX HB2747

Identical Relating to a requirement that each appraisal district periodically confirm that recipients of residence homestead exemptions qualify for those exemptions.

Previously Filed As

TX HB2747

Relating to a requirement that each appraisal district periodically confirm that recipients of residence homestead exemptions qualify for those exemptions.

TX HB1872

Relating to the repeal of the requirement that each appraisal district periodically confirm that recipients of residence homestead exemptions qualify for those exemptions.

TX HB2730

Relating to the authority of the chief appraiser of an appraisal district to require a person allowed an exemption from ad valorem taxation of a residence homestead to file a new application or confirm the person's current qualification for the exemption.

TX SB2172

Relating to the authority of the chief appraiser of an appraisal district to require a person allowed an exemption from ad valorem taxation of a residence homestead to file a new application or confirm the person's current qualification for the exemption.

TX HB994

Relating to an exemption from ad valorem taxation by a taxing unit other than a school district of a portion of the appraised value of a residence homestead based on the average appraised value of all qualified residence homesteads located in the same county.

TX HB794

Relating to limitations on increases in the appraised value for ad valorem tax purposes of residence homesteads and single-family residences other than residence homesteads.

TX HB32

Relating to limitations on increases in the appraised value for ad valorem tax purposes of residence homesteads and single-family residences other than residence homesteads.

TX HB3108

Relating to proof of eligibility for an exemption from ad valorem taxation of the residence homestead of a person.

TX HB1101

Relating to the authority of the chief appraiser of an appraisal district to require a person to file a new application to confirm the person's current qualification for the exemption from ad valorem taxation of the total appraised value of the residence homestead of a 100 percent disabled veteran.

TX HB5445

Relating to an exemption from ad valorem taxation of a portion of the appraised value of the residence homestead of a school district employee.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.