Texas House Bill HB472

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Filed: 12/22/10
• Out of House Committee: 5/7/11

Caption

Relating to the exemption from ad valorem taxation of the residence homestead of the surviving spouse of a 100 percent or totally disabled veteran.

Impact

If enacted, HB 472 would amend Section 11.131 of the Texas Tax Code to allow surviving spouses of disabled veterans to receive a complete exemption from property taxes, which can significantly impact financial planning for these families. This change in state law is critical because it acknowledges the unique sacrifices made by veterans and seeks to provide stability for their surviving family members. The exemption would cover the total appraised value of the property, providing essential financial relief during a vulnerable period of life.

Summary

House Bill 472 proposes an exemption from ad valorem taxation for the residence homestead of a surviving spouse of a 100 percent or totally disabled veteran. The bill is designed to ease the financial burden on surviving spouses, enabling them to maintain their residence without the added stress of property taxes. According to the provisions of the bill, the surviving spouse can benefit from this exemption as long as they have not remarried since the death of the veteran and the property in question remained their residence homestead at the time of the veteran's death.

Contention

While the bill is generally viewed positively by veteran advocacy groups, there may be some contention regarding the fiscal impact on local governments that rely on property taxes for funding essential services. Critics may argue that such tax exemptions could strain local budgets, especially in areas with high populations of veterans. Furthermore, there may be discussions about whether the bill adequately addresses the needs of other groups or families affected by similar issues, particularly as it is specifically tailored for surviving spouses of veterans.

Implementation

The bill is proposed to take effect on January 1, 2012, contingent upon the approval of a constitutional amendment that authorizes this specific exemption. This timeline underscores the need for legislative backing and voter support for the amendment to ensure that the exemption is enforceable. The bill also provides a one-year buffer post-deadline for applications, allowing for easier accessibility for qualifying spouses.