Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas House Bill HJR131

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

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment concerning fees that are subject to the maximum allowable limit to obtain a home equity loan.

Impact

The proposed amendment would significantly impact state laws surrounding lending practices by establishing clearer guidelines for home equity loans. By capping the fees charged by lenders, HJR131 aims to enhance transparency and protect homeowners from excessive loan costs. This could lead to an increase in home equity loan accessibility for consumers who may have previously found the fees prohibitive. Moreover, the changes might encourage lenders to adjust their practices to remain compliant with the new regulations, potentially shifting the lending landscape.

Summary

HJR131 is a joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment concerning the fees related to home equity loans in Texas. Specifically, it seeks to amend Sections 50(a) and (g) of Article XVI of the Texas Constitution. The amendment aims to clarify the conditions under which these loans may be secured by a lien on a borrower's homestead property, particularly focusing on limiting fees charged by lenders to 3% of the loan amount. This is intended to provide better consumer protection for homeowners accessing home equity loans.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HJR131 include concerns from some financial institutions regarding the feasibility of a cap on fees. Critics argue that such limitations could affect loan availability and the willingness of lenders to extend credit to homeowners. Advocates for the bill, on the other hand, argue that it is a necessary measure to safeguard consumers from predatory lending practices. The discourse reflects a broader debate regarding the balance between consumer protection and the operational interests of lenders within the state.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

TX HJR90

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for an exception from the limitation on the maximum principal amount of home equity loans and home equity lines of credit for the refinancing of certain loans secured by the homestead.

TX HJR20

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to provide for exceptions to the requirement that a home equity loan be closed only at the office of the lender, an attorney at law, or a title company.

TX HJR124

Proposing a constitutional amendment to remove the requirement that a home equity loan be closed only at the office of the lender, an attorney at law, or a title company.

TX HJR104

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to provide for exceptions to the requirement that a home equity loan be closed only at the office of the lender, an attorney at law, or a title company.

TX HJR75

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to provide for exceptions to the requirement that a home equity loan be closed only at the office of the lender, an attorney at law, or a title company.

TX HJR40

Proposing a constitutional amendment to remove the requirement that a home equity loan be closed only at the office of the lender, an attorney at law, or a title company.

TX SJR60

Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing a lower amount for expenses that can be charged to a borrower and removing certain financing expense limitations for a home equity loan, establishing certain authorized lenders to make a home equity loan, changing certain options for the refinancing of home equity loans, changing the threshold for an advance of a home equity line of credit, and allowing home equity loans on agricultural homesteads.

TX HJR99

Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing a lower amount for expenses that can be charged to a borrower and removing certain financing expense limitations for a home equity loan, establishing certain authorized lenders to make a home equity loan, changing certain options for the refinancing of home equity loans, changing the threshold for an advance of a home equity line of credit, and allowing home equity loans on agricultural homesteads.