Texas House Bill HB73

Texas 2021 - 87th 3rd C.S.

Caption

Relating to requirements for beneficial tax treatment related to a leasehold or other possessory interest in a public facility being developed or used to provide multifamily housing.

Impact

The implementation of HB73 is expected to enhance access to housing for individuals and families participating in the housing choice voucher program. By prohibiting housing facility users from denying rental opportunities based on voucher participation and limiting income requirements to a more accessible standard, the bill seeks to mitigate discrimination in housing practices. This could lead to increased stability for low-income households, ultimately promoting their well-being and integration within communities.

Summary

House Bill 73 aims to establish specific requirements for beneficial tax treatment pertaining to leasehold or other possessory interests in public facilities that are being developed or utilized for multifamily housing. The bill amends existing provisions within the Local Government Code, ensuring that leasehold interests are treated similarly to those granted by authorities under specific conditions. This legislative move is anticipated to promote affordable housing by offering favorable tax conditions for developments that serve lower-income families through the housing choice voucher program.

Contention

Despite its supportive stance towards affordable housing, the bill may face criticisms or concerns regarding its tax implications for local governments and school districts. In particular, Section 303.0425 clarifies that ad valorem taxes imposed by school districts will not be applied to these leasehold interests, a provision that could be contested by educators and policymakers who rely on such tax revenues for funding public education. The balancing act between promoting affordable housing initiatives and ensuring fair funding for schools will likely remain a topic of debate as the bill progresses.