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HB 301

Relating to an exemption from ad valorem taxation of the total appraised value of the residence homesteads of certain elderly individuals and their surviving spouses.

89th Legislature, 1st Called Session (2025) Introduced by Cecil Bell

HB 301 would exempt elderly Texas homeowners' and surviving spouses' residence properties from property taxes, potentially eliminating their ad valorem tax obligations entirely.

Filed
#aging(i0015) #education--primary&secondary--finance(i0250) #propertyinterests--homestead(i0616) #statefinances--management&control(i0748) #taxation--city(i0775) #taxation--county(i0780) #taxation--property-appraisals&appraisaldistricts(i0792) #taxation--property-assessment&collection(i0798) #taxation--property-exemptions(i0793) #taxation--property-taxrate(i0794) #taxation--schooldistrict(i0785)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 301

Legislative bill overview

HB 301 would expand property tax exemptions for elderly homeowners and their surviving spouses in Texas by allowing them to exempt the total appraised value of their residence homesteads from ad valorem (property) taxation. Currently, Texas offers homestead exemptions but typically with limitations; this bill would remove or significantly increase those caps for qualifying elderly residents.

Why is this important

Property taxes represent a major recurring expense for homeowners, particularly fixed-income seniors. This exemption could substantially reduce or eliminate property tax bills for qualifying elderly Texans, directly affecting household budgets and potentially allowing seniors to remain in their homes longer. However, it would reduce property tax revenue for schools, counties, and municipalities that depend on these funds.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue impact: Local governments, schools, and special districts would lose significant tax revenue, potentially requiring service cuts or alternative funding sources
  • Fairness concerns: Creates a two-tiered property tax system where similarly-situated younger homeowners pay taxes while elderly neighbors do not, raising equity questions
  • Definition ambiguity: The bill's language regarding "certain elderly individuals" requires clarification on age thresholds, income limits, and other eligibility criteria that could affect implementation costs

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

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