Last week, the Texas Legislature passed the largest tax cut in state history. It isn’t a perfect plan, but I am proud to have supported it and promise to keep fighting for all Texans to have a fair shot and opportunities to succeed.
Williamson County had long been billed as a great place to raise a family. Affordability, strong public schools, and safe communities continue to attract residents. But that story is incomplete—we know many of our neighbors face being priced out and are struggling to age in place. We must do more to support housing access and affordability, and the Property Tax Relief Act is a good start.
This November you will have the opportunity to vote on the tax plan as part of the Constitutional Amendment elections. Here’s what you can expect if it passes:
- Homestead exemptions will be raised from $40,000 to $100,000.
- School property tax rates will be compressed by 10.7¢, with the state making up funding differences for our public schools.
- Properties under $5 million will have a 20 percent “circuit breaker” style appraisal cap as part of a 3-year pilot program.
- Counties over 75,000 will elect 3 members of the appraisal district in non-partisan elections to be held in November.
- Franchise tax exemptions will increase from $1.1 million to $2.47 million, and small businesses will no longer be required to file a no taxes due report.
In spite of Democrats’ best efforts, we know this plan does not do enough. Our teachers and retired state employees need a raise, and renters deserve their fair share of relief.
I’m committed to continuing those fights. I supported amendments that would have helped teachers and renters, and I continue to file legislation providing for a long-overdue cost of living adjustment for our retired state employees.
As we look to the days ahead, we anticipate that the Governor will call us back in September or October for a special session focused on school finance. It’s critical we increase funding for our schools, give teachers and educational support staff a raise, and ensure any voucher schemes are defeated. I will keep you updated as we know more of what to expect and how you can get involved.
Thank you for the opportunity to continue to serve our community. I’m honored to be a voice for our values at the Texas Capitol. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions, comments, or concerns, or if there is anything my office can assist you with.