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HB 282

Relating to an exemption from ad valorem taxation of a portion of the appraised value of certain land that is located in a priority groundwater management area and is not irrigated.

89th Legislature, 2nd Called Session (2025) Introduced by Andy Hopper

HB 282 exempts non-irrigated land in Texas groundwater priority areas from partial property taxation to reduce water depletion and incentivize conservation.

Filed
#agriculture(i0020) #specialdistricts&authorities--groundwaterconservedist.(i0013) #taxation--property-appraisals&appraisaldistricts(i0792) #taxation--property-exemptions(i0793) #water--development(i0875) #water--general(i0885)
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Bill Summary · HB 282

Legislative bill overview

HB 282 proposes a property tax exemption for landowners in priority groundwater management areas who own non-irrigated land. The bill would reduce the taxable appraised value of qualifying properties, effectively lowering their ad valorem tax burden. This targets conservation of groundwater resources in designated critical areas.

Why is this important

Texas faces significant groundwater depletion, particularly in areas like the Ogallala Aquifer region. By incentivizing landowners to keep land non-irrigated through tax breaks, the state aims to reduce water consumption without outright restrictions. This affects both agricultural economics and long-term water sustainability for future generations.

Potential points of contention

  • Tax base erosion: Municipalities and school districts depend on property tax revenue; exemptions reduce funding for local services without obvious alternative revenue sources
  • Equity concerns: Exemptions benefit only landowners in priority groundwater areas, potentially creating geographic disparities in tax treatment across the state
  • Definitional ambiguity: "Priority groundwater management area" and "non-irrigated" land require precise definitions; unclear criteria could lead to disputes or unintended consequences
  • Effectiveness question: No analysis provided on whether tax incentives actually change land use behavior or simply subsidize existing practices

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

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