Texas House Bill HB2441

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the entitlement of a person who is disabled and elderly to receive a disabled residence homestead exemption from ad valorem taxation from one taxing unit and an elderly exemption from another taxing unit.

Impact

This legislation is expected to have a positive impact on elderly and disabled homeowners by reducing their property tax burdens. By enabling the selection of different exemptions across taxing units, it expands the financial options available to eligible individuals. The ability to benefit from both exemptions potentially allows for greater savings that can contribute to their overall financial health and stability. The bill's implementation signifies a step toward increasing accessibility and support for vulnerable segments of the population.

Summary

House Bill 2441 seeks to amend the Texas Tax Code to allow individuals who are both elderly and disabled to qualify for different tax exemptions on their residence homesteads. Specifically, it permits eligible persons to receive both a disabled residence homestead exemption from one taxing unit and an elderly exemption from another, thus offering broader financial relief to these individuals. The bill effectively addresses the intersection of two existing exemptions that could previously not be combined when levied by the same taxing unit.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2441 appears to be largely positive, especially among advocates for the elderly and disabled communities. It has received bipartisan support and was passed with unanimous votes in both the House and the Senate. Stakeholders view it as a necessary adjustment to ensure that dual eligible individuals are acknowledged and provided for in state tax laws. However, there may still be some contention about the implications of enacting such legislation on local government revenues.

Contention

While the bill enjoys strong support, there are concerns regarding its impact on local taxing authorities, given that exemptions can limit the revenue sources for these units. Some critics may argue that the law could contribute to a strain on local budgets if too many individuals take advantage of the dual exemption provision. Therefore, while the intent is to provide relief to a specific group, it opens up discussions on balancing tax burdens and local government funding.