Texas House Bill HB1883

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to deferred payment of ad valorem taxes for certain persons serving in the United States armed forces.

Impact

The bill amends sections of the Tax Code to establish a clear framework for deferring property tax payments for servicemen and women. Notably, it removes the requirement for the deferral to be limited to times of war or national emergency, significantly broadening access. This change addresses previous gaps where military personnel might not have qualified for deferrals during peacetime, effectively allowing them more flexibility and support in managing their responsibilities amidst the demands of military service.

Summary

House Bill 1883 is designed to provide financial relief for persons serving in the United States armed forces by allowing them to defer payment of ad valorem taxes on their property. This bill aims to alleviate the tax burden on active military personnel, especially those who may face difficulties managing financial obligations while deployed or stationed away from home. Under this legislation, eligible service members can defer payment of delinquent property taxes without incurring penalties, as long as they pay the taxes within 60 days after returning to the state or being discharged from active military service.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 1883 appears to be largely positive, especially among lawmakers and advocacy groups focusing on veterans' issues. The bill was overwhelmingly passed in both the House and Senate, indicating bipartisan support for initiatives aimed at assisting active duty military members. This consensus reflects an understanding of the unique challenges faced by service members and a collective commitment to offering tangible support during their service.

Contention

While the bill received broad support, some contention may exist regarding the administrative aspects of how these deferrals will be managed by local tax authorities. Discussion may arise around the implications for public funding, given that property taxes contribute significantly to local budgets. Nonetheless, the overall intent is to aid service members without disproportionately affecting public revenue streams, a balance that will be important to monitor as the law is implemented.