Texas House Bill HB139

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

• Filed: 11/14/16

Caption

Relating to the authority of a property owner to request that notice of a protest hearing before the appraisal review board be delivered by certified mail.

Impact

The enactment of HB 139 would streamline the notification process for property owners involved in appraisal disputes. By allowing certified mail delivery upon request, it enhances the likelihood that property owners receive timely and secure communication regarding their protest hearings. This change could potentially reduce misunderstandings and disputes related to notification issues, thus fostering a more transparent process for property owners.

Summary

House Bill 139 aims to amend the Texas Tax Code to grant property owners the authority to request delivery of notice for protest hearings before the appraisal review board via certified mail. This change is significant as it provides property owners with more control over communication regarding their property tax appraisal disputes. The bill ensures that if property owners included such a request in their notice of protest, the appraisal review board is mandated to send the notice by certified mail.

Contention

While the bill primarily serves to benefit property owners by ensuring documented notification of protest hearings, discussions may arise around the additional costs of mailing which could be imposed on property owners. This provision for property owners to pay for postage might draw mixed reactions, especially among those concerned with the financial burdens on individuals disputing their property assessments. Therefore, while the bill is intended to aid property owners, it also raises considerations regarding equity in costs associated with property tax protests.