Relating to the exemption from ad valorem taxation of certain property owned by a charitable organization and used in providing housing and related services to certain homeless individuals.
Impact
The amendment under Section 11.18 specifies that the exemption is applicable only to properties owned by charities that have been in existence for at least twelve years, and located within municipalities with populations between 750,000 and 850,000. This focused approach is intended to ensure that well-established organizations can continue their work without the added pressure of property taxes, thereby potentially increasing the availability of housing for vulnerable populations in urban areas. Moreover, this legislation could set a precedent for similar future legislative efforts aimed at protecting non-profit entities during financial crises.
Summary
House Bill 294 focuses on amending the Texas Tax Code to provide specific exemptions from ad valorem taxation for properties owned by charitable organizations. This bill is targeted towards properties that offer housing and related services to certain homeless individuals. The intention behind this legislation is to alleviate some of the financial burdens faced by charitable organizations that play a critical role in addressing homelessness within larger municipalities. By easing tax burdens, the bill aims to enable these organizations to expand their services and enhance their capacity to help those in need.
Contention
A notable aspect of this bill is the specificity of its application, which has raised questions regarding its fairness and inclusivity. Some critics argue that limiting the exemption to organizations established for a minimum length of time could unjustly exclude newer charities that may also be emerging to meet urgent community needs. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the potential for this bill to inadvertently encourage a reliance on charitable organizations, rather than promoting comprehensive state-funded solutions to homelessness. Such discussions could influence the overall perception of the effectiveness of the legislation and its impact on homelessness.
Voting_history
HB 294 was received by the Senate on May 3, 2013, and after being referred to the Committee on Finance, it was favorably reported with a vote of 12-0. It was passed in the House on May 2, 2013, with a unanimous vote of 147 yeas and no nays. The bill is set to take effect starting January 1, 2014, which indicates an eagerness to implement the provisions of the bill and provide support to charitable organizations without delay.
Relating to the exemption from ad valorem taxation of certain property owned by a charitable organization that is engaged in providing housing and related facilities and services to persons who are at least 62 years of age.
Relating to the exemption from ad valorem taxation of certain property owned by a charitable organization that is engaged in providing housing and related facilities and services to persons who are at least 62 years of age.
Relating to an exemption from ad valorem taxation of property owned by a charitable organization that provides services related to the placement of a child in a foster or adoptive home.
Relating to an exemption from ad valorem taxation of real property owned by a charitable organization for the purpose of renting the property at below-market rates to low-income and moderate-income households.
Relating to an exemption from ad valorem taxation of real property owned by a charitable organization for the purpose of renting the property at below-market rates to low-income and moderate-income households.
Relating to the exemption from ad valorem taxation of property owned by a charitable organization that provides a meeting place and support services for organizations that provide assistance to persons with substance use disorders and their families.