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Bill

Bill

HB 1829

Relating to the establishment of a limitation on the total amount of ad valorem taxes that certain taxing units may impose on the residence homesteads of individuals who are disabled or elderly and their surviving spouses.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Matt Shaheen

Texas bill caps property tax increases on elderly and disabled homeowners' residences to protect fixed-income households from displacement through escalating assessments.

Referred to Ways & Means
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Bill Summary · HB 1829

Legislative bill overview

HB 1829 proposes establishing a cap on property tax increases for homesteads owned by elderly or disabled individuals and their surviving spouses in Texas. The bill aims to prevent runaway property taxes on the primary residences of these vulnerable populations while maintaining local tax authority within defined limits.

Why is this important

Property tax increases can force elderly and disabled homeowners on fixed incomes out of their homes despite owning them outright. This is a real financial hardship as home values appreciate but income doesn't, affecting seniors' housing security and forcing asset liquidation. The policy balances protecting these groups against local governments' revenue needs for schools, emergency services, and infrastructure.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue impact on local services: Capping tax increases could reduce funding for schools, first responders, and infrastructure, raising questions about who bears the fiscal burden
  • Defining eligibility: Determining which disabilities qualify and income thresholds could create administrative complexity and potential inequities among disabled persons
  • Fairness to other taxpayers: Non-elderly and non-disabled homeowners could face higher tax burdens to compensate for exempted groups, raising equity concerns
  • Implementation details unclear: The bill's current language doesn't specify the cap amount, phase-in period, or whether surviving spouses retain protections indefinitely

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

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