Texas Senate Bill SB1405

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 5/6/11
• Introduced: 3/9/11
• Voted on by Senate: 5/17/11
• Refer: 3/22/11
• Report Pass: 5/6/11
• Engrossed: 5/17/11
• Refer: 5/17/11

Caption

Relating to the right of a person exempt from registration as a property tax consultant who files a protest with the appraisal review board on behalf of a property owner to receive notices from the board regarding the property subject to the protest.

Impact

If enacted, SB1405 would formalize the notification rights for exempt property tax consultants, thereby improving the transparency and efficiency of the property tax protest process in Texas. Property owners would benefit from having their representatives adequately informed about the status and outcomes of their protests, potentially leading to more favorable resolutions in tax disputes. This bill may also encourage more property owners to seek assistance in navigating property tax challenges, as they would have assurance that their representatives would be kept in the loop.

Summary

Senate Bill 1405 addresses the rights of individuals who are exempt from registration as property tax consultants when they file a protest with the appraisal review board on behalf of a property owner. The bill specifically amends the Texas Tax Code to entitle such individuals to receive all relevant notices from the appraisal district and the appraisal review board regarding the property that is subject to their filed protest. This provision is aimed at enhancing communication and providing better assistance to property owners during the protest process.

Contention

The notable point of contention surrounding SB1405 could revolve around the implications of granting notification rights to individuals who are not formally registered property tax consultants. Advocates may argue that this enhances rights and freedoms for property owners, while critics might raise concerns about the qualifications and oversight of those acting on behalf of property owners. Potential opposition could stem from registered consultants who may view this bill as undermining their professional status by allowing unregistered individuals the same rights in the protest process.