HB 273 allows certain taxing units (like special districts, but not school districts, counties, or municipalities) to cap property taxes on the homesteads of low-income disabled or elderly homeowners. It defines "eligible individuals" as those with household income below 200% of the federal poverty level. The bill requires taxing units to calculate taxes normally but limits the total annual tax to the amount charged in the first year the homeowner qualified for the homestead exemption, preventing future increases above that level. Exceptions apply only if the homeowner makes non-repair improvements to their home. This directly affects qualifying taxing units and eligible homeowners aged 65+ or disabled individuals with low incomes.
HB 184 modifies Texas property tax rules to limit annual increases in the appraised value of homestead properties (primary residences qualifying for tax exemptions). It raises the annual cap on value increases from 5% to 10% of the prior year's appraised value, plus the cost of new improvements. This change directly affects Texas homeowners who claim homestead exemptions, preventing sudden large tax hikes when property values rise rapidly. The bill takes effect January 1, 2027, and applies to properties owned as of January 1 of the tax year.
This bill changes Texas law to hold landlords financially responsible when a casualty loss (like a fire or structural damage) makes a rental unit uninhabitable due to the landlord's negligence or fault. It directly affects residential tenants and landlords in Texas, specifically for leases entered into or renewed after the law takes effect. If a landlord causes such damage, they must either provide a comparable available unit for the tenant to stay in for the rest of the lease or cover the difference in rent between the tenant's current lease and a comparable replacement unit. These requirements apply only to new or renewed leases, not existing ones.
HJR 30 proposes a constitutional amendment to allow Texas cities, counties, and other local governments (excluding school districts and junior colleges) to limit property taxes on the primary homes of low-income elderly (65+) or disabled residents and their surviving spouses. It would let local governments set a tax cap that cannot increase as long as the homeowner maintains their qualifying homestead exemption, or require a voter referendum if 5% of registered voters petition for it. Surviving spouses aged 55+ who meet financial criteria would retain the tax cap after the homeowner's death. The amendment does not create new taxes but restricts existing property tax increases for eligible homeowners, with exceptions for significant home improvements. This is a proposed constitutional change, not an enacted law.
HB 190 requires Texas local governments to adopt comprehensive disaster recovery plans that specifically address the needs of vulnerable populations, including people with disabilities, the homeless, and low-income households. It mandates a state-developed model guide for local officials covering debris removal, federal funding access, housing coordination, and volunteer organization partnerships. The bill also adds specific requirements for inclusive disaster operations, such as disability-focused emergency notifications, shelter health standards, and integrated planning with facilities serving disabled individuals. These changes apply directly to city and county emergency management officials and state agencies managing disaster response. The bill amends sections of the Government Code related to emergency planning and recovery procedures.
