Texas House Bill HB408

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Filed: 12/15/08
• Out of House Committee: 4/17/09
• Voted on by House: 4/28/09

Caption

Relating to the eligibility of a disabled veteran or surviving spouse to pay ad valorem taxes imposed on a residence homestead in installments.

Impact

The bill amends Section 31.031 of the Texas Tax Code, specifically expanding eligibility for installment payments of ad valorem taxes to include not only those aged 65 or older but also disabled veterans and their surviving spouses who qualify for specific exemptions. The change in statute reflects an acknowledgment of the unique challenges faced by these individuals, and its passage could significantly influence their financial literacy and management concerning property tax obligations.

Summary

House Bill 408 aims to provide financial relief to disabled veterans and the surviving spouses of disabled veterans by allowing them to pay ad valorem taxes on their residence homesteads in installments. Under the proposed legislation, eligible individuals may pay one-fourth of their property taxes by the delinquency date, and then pay the remaining balance in three equal installments due before specific dates throughout the year. This structure is intended to ease the burden of property tax payments on a vulnerable demographic that may be facing financial difficulties due to their circumstances.

Contention

While the potential benefits for disabled veterans and their families seem clear, there may be discussions surrounding the implementation and funding of such a payment option. Some stakeholders might argue about the implications of delaying tax payments for local governments and how it could affect their revenue streams. Critics may express concerns regarding the administrative burden involved in tracking who qualifies for installment payments and ensuring compliance with the new provisions. Overall, the passage of HB408 could lead to debates regarding the balance between tax relief for specific groups and the fiscal responsibilities of local government entities.