Texas House Bill HB1384

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of House Committee: 5/9/11
• Introduced: 2/16/11
• Refer: 3/1/11
• Report Pass: 5/9/11

Caption

Relating to the eligibility of land for appraisal for ad valorem tax purposes as qualified open-space land on the basis of its use for wildlife management.

Impact

The passage of HB 1384 is expected to have significant implications for conservation efforts in Texas. By enabling land to be appraised as qualified open-space land for tax purposes when used in continued wildlife management practices, it encourages landowners to maintain and improve habitats for native wildlife. This could lead to more sustainable land use practices, and promoting biodiversity is a noteworthy goal that aligns with broader conservation objectives.

Summary

House Bill 1384 is designed to amend the Texas Tax Code in relation to the appraisal of land for ad valorem tax purposes specifically qualifying certain lands as open-space land based on their use for wildlife management. The bill outlines detailed criteria for what constitutes wildlife management activities, which includes habitat control, erosion control, and support for endangered species among other conservation efforts. The intent of the bill is to encourage the preservation of wildlife habitats and support conservation efforts by providing favorable tax treatment for landowners engaged in these activities.

Contention

Notably, discussions surrounding HB 1384 include various opinions about the balance between conservation efforts and the economic implications for landowners. Supporters argue that this bill provides necessary incentives for landowners to engage in practices that serve both wildlife and the broader environmental goals of the state. Conversely, some critics may express concerns over potential misuse of the designation and whether the criteria are stringent enough to prevent eligible lands from being misclassified. Overall, the bill reflects ongoing discussions about the intersection of environmental stewardship and property rights within Texas.