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HJR 68

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to limit the total amount of ad valorem taxes that a school district may impose on certain residence homesteads following a substantial school tax increase.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Diego Bernal

Proposes constitutional amendment allowing Texas Legislature to cap homestead property tax increases when school districts impose substantial tax hikes, shifting local tax authority to state control.

Referred to Ways & Means
#propertyinterests--homestead(i0616) #resolutions--constitutionalamendments(i0661) #taxation--property-appraisals&appraisaldistricts(i0792) #taxation--property-assessment&collection(i0798) #taxation--property-exemptions(i0793) #taxation--schooldistrict(i0785)
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Bill Summary · HJR 68

Legislative bill overview

HJR 68 proposes a constitutional amendment that would allow the Texas Legislature to cap property tax increases on homesteads in school districts that impose substantial tax hikes. This would require voter approval both in the legislature (2/3 majority) and statewide. The amendment would give lawmakers power to limit how much ad valorem (property value-based) taxes homeowners pay when their school district significantly raises rates.

Why is this important

Property taxes fund the majority of Texas public school budgets, making them a major household expense for homeowners. This proposal directly addresses concerns about affordability during periods of rapid school tax growth, but could simultaneously reduce funding predictability for school districts that need revenue increases. The amendment would fundamentally alter the relationship between local tax-setting authority and state oversight.

Potential points of contention

  • School funding impacts: Capping tax increases could constrain school district revenues during enrollment growth or inflation, potentially forcing service cuts or larger state funding contributions
  • Local control vs. state authority: The amendment shifts power from locally-elected school boards to the state legislature, raising questions about whether distant lawmakers should override community tax decisions
  • Selective homestead protection: The amendment only protects "certain residence homesteads," creating questions about which properties qualify and whether this creates inequitable treatment across property types

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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