Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas Senate Bill SJR34

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Sent toSOS
 
Proposed Const. Amend.
 

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to exempt from ad valorem taxation the residence homestead of the surviving spouse of a 100 percent or totally disabled veteran in an amount equal to the amount of the residence homestead exemption to which the disabled veteran was entitled on the same property.

Impact

If enacted, SJR34 would significantly alter the way property taxes are assessed for surviving spouses of totally disabled veterans, potentially providing them with considerable financial relief. In situations where the property qualifies as the residence homestead, the surviving spouse would benefit from tax relief, enabling them to maintain their home without the stress of rising tax obligations, especially during challenging economic times.

Summary

SJR34 proposes a constitutional amendment that would authorize the Texas legislature to exempt the residence homestead of the surviving spouse of a 100 percent or totally disabled veteran from ad valorem taxation. This exemption would be equivalent to the amount of the homestead exemption that was previously granted to the disabled veteran for the same property. The amendment aims to support the families of veterans by easing their financial burdens related to property taxes.

Contention

While the bill is widely expected to receive support due to its focus on assisting veterans’ families, there may be discussions concerning its fiscal implications. Critics could argue that implementing such tax exemptions might reduce local tax revenues, impacting public services funded by these taxes. Therefore, an important point of consideration during discussions might involve balancing the benefits for veteran families against potential resource limitations for local governments.

Companion Bills

TX SB1268

Enabled by Relating to an exemption from ad valorem taxation of the residence homesteads of certain totally disabled veterans and to continuing the exemption on the same property for the surviving spouse of such a veteran, and to the amount of the exemption from ad valorem taxation to which a disabled veteran is entitled based on disability rating.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.