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Bill

HB 101

Relating to requiring voter approval for certain local tax rate increases adopted pursuant to a disaster declaration.

89th Legislature, 2nd Called Session (2025) Introduced by Jay Dean

Texas bill requiring voter approval for local tax increases adopted during disaster declarations, potentially delaying emergency response funding while increasing fiscal oversight.

Referred to Ways & Means
#disasterpreparedness&relief(i0211) #elections--general(i0310) #taxation--property-taxrate(i0794)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 101

Legislative bill overview

HB 101 would require local governments in Texas to obtain voter approval before implementing tax rate increases that are adopted under a disaster declaration. Currently, local authorities can raise taxes in response to declared disasters without voter consent. This bill adds a democratic check on emergency tax increases by making them subject to voter ratification.

Why is this important

Disaster declarations can trigger rapid local government responses, including tax increases to fund emergency services and recovery efforts. This bill affects the balance between governmental emergency powers and taxpayer control—determining whether residents can be taxed more without their direct consent during crises. The outcome impacts both disaster response capacity and fiscal transparency during vulnerable periods.

Potential points of contention

  • Emergency response timing: Requiring voter approval could delay critical funding for disaster recovery, emergency services, and rebuilding efforts when speed is essential
  • Tax increase scope: Unclear whether this applies to all tax increases during disasters or only certain types, and what threshold triggers the voter approval requirement
  • Voter participation logistics: Holding elections during or immediately after disasters when infrastructure is damaged and residents displaced may be administratively difficult and result in low participation rates

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

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