Texas House Bill HB1226

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 11/12/24
• Out of House Committee: 5/9/25

Caption

Relating to the dissolution by petition of a municipal management district; making conforming changes related to ship channel security districts.

Impact

The bill modifies existing provisions in the Local Government Code, ensuring that the new requirements take precedence over conflicting special laws. These changes will particularly affect landowners within municipal management districts who wish to dissolve their district as it streamlines the process and sets a clear threshold for approval. The intended effect is to empower local property owners, granting them more control over district governance and the financial obligations arising from taxation within those districts.

Summary

House Bill 1226 addresses the process by which a municipal management district can be dissolved through a written petition by property owners. Specifically, the bill stipulates that if a district imposes an ad valorem or sales tax, a petition must be filed by owners of at least two-thirds of the assessed value of the properties subject to that tax. Conversely, if the district only levies assessments without a sales tax, a majority of the property owners must initiate the petition for dissolution. This change provides a clearer framework for property owners seeking to dissolve a district, particularly when there are conflicts with existing special laws governing such districts.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1226 appears to be generally supportive among those who value local autonomy and landowner rights. Advocates of the bill argue that it provides necessary tools for property owners to make decisions regarding their governance and financial responsibilities. However, there may also be concerns from those who believe that the dissolution of such districts could undermine important community services or infrastructure, highlighting a division of opinion among stakeholders in affected areas.

Contention

A notable point of contention revolves around the potential consequences of easier dissolution of municipal management districts. Opponents may argue that while it grants landowners the power to dissolve, it might lead to detrimental impacts on local infrastructure and services that rely on the revenue generated through district taxes. Therefore, while the bill seeks to empower property owners, it requires careful consideration of the broader implications for community governance and resource management.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Local Government Code

• Chapter 375. Municipal Management Districts In General
  • Section: 262
  • Section: 262
  • Section: 262

Water Code

• Chapter 68. Ship Channel Security Districts
  • Section: 352
  • Section: 352
  • Section: 352