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Bill

Bill

HJR 45

Proposing a constitutional amendment to authorize the legislature to limit the maximum appraised value of real property for ad valorem tax purposes.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Cody Vasut

Texas constitutional amendment authorizing legislature to cap real property appraised values for property tax calculations, potentially reducing homeowner tax bills but risking school and service funding shortfalls.

Referred to s/c on Property Tax Appraisals by Speaker
#propertyinterests--realproperty(i0595) #resolutions--constitutionalamendments(i0661) #taxation--property-appraisals&appraisaldistricts(i0792) #taxation--property-exemptions(i0793)
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Bill Summary · HJR 45

Legislative bill overview

HJR 45 proposes a constitutional amendment that would allow the Texas legislature to cap the appraised value of real property used for calculating ad valorem (property) taxes. Currently, property tax assessments are based on market value with limited restrictions. This amendment would grant the legislature authority to impose a maximum appraised value threshold, potentially reducing what homeowners and property owners pay in property taxes.

Why is this important

Property taxes fund essential services like schools, emergency services, and infrastructure. Capping appraised values could lower tax bills for property owners but would simultaneously reduce revenue available for these services unless tax rates are increased or budgets are cut. Texas has experienced rapid property value increases in recent years, making tax burden a significant political and constituent concern.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue implications: Lower appraised values mean less tax revenue unless lawmakers raise tax rates, creating a funding gap for schools and local services that depend on property tax income
  • Fairness concerns: A statewide cap might disproportionately benefit high-value properties or wealthy areas while affecting school funding equity across districts
  • Implementation complexity: The amendment gives legislature broad authority without specifying how caps would work, potentially creating uncertainty for property owners, assessors, and local governments during implementation

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

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