Dear Friends,

Halfway through the 88^th Session of the Texas Legislature, we want to inform you of some positive property tax bills and encourage you to contact your State Representative and Senator to support.  They are: Senate Bills 3, 4, 5 & 1923.  We also think it is important to convey your opposition to House Bill 2, which, as Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick says, would destroy everything.

Senate Bill 1923 by Senator Drew Springer

Prohibits appraisal districts from suing taxpayers and from filing counterclaims against taxpayers who appeal Appraisal Review Board orders. Appraisal Districts have become increasingly aggressive in their use of litigation against taxpayers.  SB 1923 puts an end to the abusive litigation tactics of appraisal districts.

Senate Bills 3, 4 & 5 have passed the Senate, but face opposition in the House

SB 3 – Raises homestead exemption from $40,000 to $70,000 and gives homeowners over 65 a $30,000 (up from $10,000).  Bringing their total homestead exemption to $100,000.
SB 4 – Provides for additional tax rate compression.
SB 5 – Increases business personal property exemption from $2,500 to $25,000 and creates an inventory tax credit (total credits cannot exceed $400 million in a fiscal year.
Senate Bills 3, 4 & 5 preserve equity and a keep a level playing field for commercial property owners, while providing a sound and stable route for property tax relief.