Texas House Bill HB1829

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 1/13/25

Caption

Relating to the establishment of a limitation on the total amount of ad valorem taxes that certain taxing units may impose on the residence homesteads of individuals who are disabled or elderly and their surviving spouses.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1829 will have substantial implications for property taxation laws across Texas. It will require local taxing authorities to restrict the annual property tax increases for qualifying homesteads, thereby offering a safeguard against potentially sharp increases that could lead to financial burdens for households of elderly and disabled individuals. This limitation would ensure stability and predictability in property tax expenses for these groups, creating a more favorable financial environment for them.

Summary

House Bill 1829 seeks to establish significant limitations on the total amount of ad valorem taxes that can be imposed on the residence homesteads of individuals who are disabled or aged 65 and older, along with their surviving spouses. The bill specifically targets taxing units other than school districts, allowing local governments to set maximum tax rates. This measure is designed to provide financial relief to vulnerable segments of the population by controlling property tax hikes that can disproportionately affect the elderly and disabled.

Contention

However, the bill may face opposition from local government entities concerned that these tax limitations could restrict their revenue-generating abilities. Critics argue that while the bill provides necessary protections for vulnerable populations, it may result in funding shortfalls for vital community services funded by property taxes, such as education and public safety. The balancing act between safeguarding the financial interests of vulnerable residents and maintaining adequate funding for local services is likely to be a key point of discussion among stakeholders.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Tax Code

• Chapter 11. Taxable Property And Exemptions
  • Section: 261

• Chapter 26. Assessment
  • Section: New Section