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SB 1502

Relating to the authority of the governing body of a school district to adopt an ad valorem tax rate that exceeds the district's voter-approval tax rate.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Paul Bettencourt and 2 co-sponsors

Texas SB 1502 allows school districts to unilaterally raise property tax rates beyond voter-approved thresholds, effective January 2026, shifting tax-setting authority from voters to school boards.

Effective on 1/1/26
#disasterpreparedness&relief(i0211) #education--primary&secondary--finance(i0250) #education--schooldistricts(i0220) #taxation--property-assessment&collection(i0798) #taxation--property-taxrate(i0794) #taxation--schooldistrict(i0785)
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Bill Summary · SB 1502

Legislative bill overview

SB 1502 grants Texas school district governing bodies the authority to adopt ad valorem tax rates that exceed the district's voter-approved tax rate threshold. Previously, districts were restricted to the tax rate voters had specifically approved. This law takes effect January 1, 2026, and fundamentally changes how school districts can set property tax rates without returning to voters for approval.

Why is this important

This represents a significant shift in fiscal authority and taxpayer consent in school funding. It allows school districts to unilaterally increase property taxes beyond what voters previously authorized, potentially increasing household tax bills without direct voter consent. This directly affects homeowners and commercial property owners who face property tax obligations, and impacts school district budgets and local government revenue structures.

Potential points of contention

  • Voter consent concerns: Critics argue this diminishes voter control over taxes by allowing districts to exceed voter-approved rates without returning to the ballot for renewed approval
  • Taxpayer burden: Property owners may face unexpected tax increases on homes and businesses they already own, with limited recourse beyond voting out school board members
  • Fiscal accountability: Allows districts to increase spending authority without demonstrating voter support for higher tax levels, raising questions about fiscal discipline and transparency

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

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